Colored Garments: how to stop color fading from clothes

Why is it so important to know how to stop color fading from clothes after wash, for as long as possible?

Because, as Goethe said, “Colors are actions of light. Actions and passions”: words that convey energy, vivacity, positivity. This is why all of us have always been so fascinated by colors. Each color, depending on our cultural tradition, has a different, sometimes even opposite meaning (think of white, for example, which in Italy or Europe is the color of purity, while in Japan it represents mourning).

That being said, it is quite clear how colors in the world of clothing and fashion are super important because they express the personality and moods of those who choose to wear them.

We’ve put together a simple but detailed guide for you on how to preserve the brilliant colors of your favorite garments over time by using really affordable remedies: …and here it is!

First of all it is essential to understand the type of fabric being used. Cotton, silk, synthetics… each material reacts differently to the processes of washing and drying.

For example, natural fabrics such as cotton tend to lose color more easily than synthetics. Choosing high quality fabrics is the first step in ensuring longer lasting color.

Washing and post-washing: a few tips for protecting colors

Despite the fact there are an ever increasing number of “smart” detergents on the market that allow white and colored garments to be washed together, our dispassionate advice is not to do so.

Hence, to minimize the risk of color bleeding from one garment to another, carefully separate not only white garments from colored ones, but also very bright colors from darker colors. Remember to use a gentle detergent specifically formulated for colored garments in order to help the colors retain their intensity and prevent fading.

Yes, yes, we know it’s a complication, but we prefer to call it care and attention to those garments that you have personally chosen and would therefore want to last for a long, long time.

The water temperature: never use water that is too hot

Water that is too hot is the enemy of brilliant colors.

So choose a cold or a moderate temperature wash, as needed. Sometimes we mix very dirty garments and others that would only require a light/freshen-up cycle in the washing machine. This is also a mistake.

Thus, to protect colors and keep them bright, remember to always select the lowest possible temperature (30° maximum). In this way you will not only protect the color of your garments, but you will also reduce energy consumption by making an environmentally friendly choice.

Furthermore, when dealing with hard-to-remove stains, before placing the garments in the washing machine, gently blot them with a cloth soaked in water and detergent, remembering not to scrub them too vigorously.

And if your garments are particularly delicate and/or expensive, wash them by hand! And this also applies, especially for example, to your beautiful wool sweaters.

Drying and ironing: you can bever be too careful

Sunshine? No thank you! Drying garments in the sun can fade the colors. So choose an airy but shady spot. Dryer usage should be kept to the bare minimum. If you really can’t do without it, choose a low temperature for delicate fabrics and remove the garments from the dryer while they are still slightly damp. (You can finish drying them by placing them on a drying rack inside or, if the weather permits, outside, but remember, always in the shade.)

When ironing, be sure to use a cool iron and iron the garment on the wrong side.

Grandma’s advice: revitalize colors with salt

It’s an old fashioned trick, but it still works.

Adding a handful of salt to the wash cycle can help set colors and prevent them from fading. Sea salt is particularly effective.

Alternatively, a glass of white vinegar or baking soda will also help to set the colors and prevent them from fading.

1. 1. Wash your garments at a low temperature with gentle detergents specifically formulated for colored fabrics, and hand wash the most delicate and expensive garments
2. 2. Don’t mix whites with colored garments, or light colors with dark colored ones
3. 3. Remove tough stains by gently blotting them with a cloth soaked with water and detergent before placing them in the washing machine
4. 4. Don’t overdo the use of a dryer, and avoid direct exposure to sunlight
5. 5. Iron garments inside out with a cool iron

We have seen that is it important to know how to stop color fading from clothes, so be sure to make sure your wardrobe always maintains a trendy shine!;-)