Should Washing Whites with Colors be Done? Insights from Martha
Standing in front of a pile of whites and colors in the laundry basket, you might be tempted to throw caution to the wind and toss them all together. It seems like an easy way to save time, right? But does the old rule still apply, or can you successfully wash whites with colors? To answer this age-old question, let's turn to none other than Martha herself.
Why Separate Laundry Loads?
The primary reason for separating laundry loads by color is dye. Vibrant dyes from colorful clothes can bleed into your whites, leaving them with an unwanted tint. Turning your pristine white shirt pink from a single wash with a red sock is a laundry mistake that's hard to undo.
Moreover, sorting laundry by color is crucial when it comes to temperature control. Different fabrics require different water temperatures and settings. Typically, white materials should go through a warm wash, while bright clothing should be washed with a cold water setting to prevent fading.
What Martha Says About Washing Whites with Colors
In her book, "Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook," Martha strongly advocates for separating laundry loads to minimize the risk of dye staining lighter fabrics. She even sorts loads by soil level, fabric type, and lint properties. So, the old-school laundry rule still stands: sorting whites and colors is a must.
However, Martha recognizes that laundry doesn't always have to be an all-or-nothing chore. You can group similar-toned items together to reduce sorting time and water and energy consumption. Light-colored items like pastels, light blues, and soft pinks may be safely washed with whites, but avoiding dark colors with whites is always best.
Factors to Consider Before Mixing Whites and Brights
While risky, washing whites with colors is sometimes necessary. Here are some factors to consider:
- Fabric Type: Synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon, and acrylic are less likely to bleed than natural fibers like cotton and linen.
- Pre-Wash Test: Before washing the entire load together, soak the brighter item in water for a few minutes. If the water shows any color, wash it separately or with similar-colored items.
- Label Check: Clothes labeled as "colorfast" or "pre-washed" are less likely to bleed, so double-check these tags.
Tips to Minimize Risk
If you're determined to wash whites and colors together, consider the following tips:
- Color-Catching Sheets: These sheets absorb loose dyes during the wash cycle, reducing the risk of color transfer.
- Cold Water: Cold water can help prevent color bleeding and preserve fabric integrity.
- Gentle Detergent: A mild, color-safe detergent can protect both whites and colors and aid in preventing fading.
- Careful Drying: Line-drying can help maintain fabric vibrancy and prevent further color transfer.
By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risk of color transfer when washing whites with colors. However, always prioritize caution with new or brightly colored items.
If you're following Martha Stewart's advice, you'll organize your laundry loads meticulously. This includes separating whites from colors and even considering the soil level and fabric type. Although you might prefer a quick laundry session, cleaning and organizing your laundry linens carefully will ensure their longevity and color preservation.
In her handbook, Martha suggests a pre-wash test for brightly colored items before mixing them with whites. If the water shows any color, it's best to wash it separately or with similar-toned items. This small step can significantly reduce the likelihood of color transfer and save your valuable whites from unwanted tints.
Even when washing whites with similar-toned items like pastels, light blues, and soft pinks, it's essential to be mindful of the fabric type. Synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon are less likely to bleed than natural fibers like cotton and linen. By considering this, you can minimize the chances of color transfer and ensure your laundry turns out just as you intended.
