How to Keep Whites Looking Bright

Keep whites looking bright with these simple tips.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Separate. Separate whites from other colors before washing to cut down on gray, pink, or other dull tones.

2. Hot Water. The hotter the water, the better the cleansing. However, if you have a stained item, you may need to pre-treat it before adding it to the wash. If your stained item hasn't been pre-treated, the hot water may set the stain.

3. Bleach. Bleach can brighten clothes, but it can also weaken the material or fabric. Use only if the garment tag recommends bleach. Otherwise, you may want to try Oxi-Clean.

4. Scrub. For areas around the collar and cuff, use a soft toothbrush to work a stain remover into the fabric. The small bristles create enough friction to remove dirt without damaging the fabric.

5. Dryer? Inspect all garments for stains prior to transferring them to the dryer. The drying process can set the stain, "baking" it into the fabric.

Tips & Warnings

• To remove underarm stains, use a stain remover with enzymes that specifically target sweat stains.

Resources

• How to Declutter and Achieve Order at Home
• How to Live Large on a Tight Budget

[missval7]

on 5/20/2009 Great tips to keep your get your clothes whiter! 5*

[MariM]

on 5/14/2009 Great tips on keeping whites bright.5*

[kristara]

on 5/14/2009 Great tips! I will try these to get my whites whiter and brighter! 5*

[sabrinacareer]

on 5/13/2009 good tips!

[veryfaraway]

on 5/8/2009 Oxygen based cleaners are the best! Good tips.