Keeping white clothes bright, white, and fresh can be a challenge. Bleach can be a great refresher to your garments and keep them looking their best. However, you can't use bleach on every fabric.

Bleaching Your White Clothes

    • Make sure to check the care label.
    • If it says "no bleach," don't use bleach.
    • Test the garment in a hidden spot the first time you use bleach.
    • If the item is safe, run it through your wash cycle as normal.
    • Add the bleach as instructed by the manufacturer. Many machines have a bleach dispenser or use the detergent dispenser - avoid pouring bleach directly on the clothes.
    • Dry as usual.

You may want to avoid bleaching your clothes each time you wash, even if they are bleach-safe. Instead, use a bleach alternative in your washing cycle or try a bluing-agent.

Preventing Your Whites From Fading

For clothes that cannot be bleached, take some care when washing. Separate your clothes into whites and colors. If you do have to run a load with both whites and colors, use a dye-grabbing cloth that will keep color from setting on your whites.

Attack stains as quick as possible. Don't forget to work on things you can't see, such as sweat marks on the collar or underarms. You can also rub a full-strength detergent on the area before washing - just give it 15 minutes or so before tossing it in the wash.

Always follow the instructions on the detergent bottle. Using too much or too little detergent prevents clothes from getting cleaned. Buy a high-quality detergent. Don't overload the washer. It needs to circulate the clothes to get them really clean. When drying clothes, follow the label for the right temperature. Over-drying will fade your clothes, too.

Take extra care with your laundry and your clothes will last longer and look better.