can you mix colours in the washing machine

Can You Mix Colours in the Washing Machine? Understanding Laundry Care

Laundry care can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to colour mixing in the washing machine. Everyone has a favourite item of clothing that they dont want to fade or turn grey. So, can you mix colours in the washing machine? The answer is yes, but it's not that simple. Here's everything you need to know about washing different coloured clothes in the same load:

1. Sorting your clothes by colour

The first step towards mixing colours in a washing machine is to do the sorting. Clothing that is similar in colour should be sorted together before starting the washing cycle. Bright colours like red and orange can bleed, so it's not ideal to wash them with lighter fabrics such as whites, creams and pastels.

2. Use Cold Water

When it comes to washing coloured items, cold water is your best friend. Hot water can cause colours to bleed or fade, especially with more vibrant hues.

3. New clothes should run separately

New clothing items tend to bleed a lot, especially during the first wash. Wearing them for the first time is not advisable after the initial wash, but it is important to wash them separately in cold water to prevent ruining the other clothing items in the load.

4. Use Colour Catchers

Even the best laundry sorters will find it hard to keep colours from bleeding. A great way to deal with colour bleed is to use a colour catcher. These sheets prevent colour transfer from one fabric to another during the washing process. This product absorbs any dye that may have come out of the clothes, where it can harm or discolour other laundry items.

5. Different Fabrics May Require Different Settings

Different fabrics require different washing settings, and this is very important when it comes to mixed loads. For instance, washing a thick cotton sweater with a lightweight blouse may not be ideal. The heavier garment may damage or weaken the lighter item, so it's important to select the right cycle for the type of fabric in the load.

Conclusion

To sum up, you can mix your clothes in the washing machine, but it's necessary to take some precautions to prevent them from getting damaged. Before washing, separate your clothes by colour and use cold water only. Also, a colour catcher may come in handy to prevent colour transfer between fabrics. Finally, different fabrics may require a different washing cycle, so always pay attention to the labels before washing. By following these simple laundry care tips, you can keep your fabrics in great condition and prevent colour mixing.