When it comes to laundry, there’s one rule everyone’s heard a thousand times: only wash like colors together, and never, ever mix lights with darks. But is that truly enough to keep your clothes looking fresh, or is there more to getting it right?
It turns out there's a lot more to keeping those reds vibrant, blues from fading, and patterns from running than just avoiding a mixup with whites. From choosing the correct detergent to knowing the ideal water temperature, every detail plays a part in keeping your clothing items looking fresh and colorful.
So, let’s find out once and for all if your laundry habits are helping—or hurting—your colored clothes!
Hot or cold? Is this question running through your head every time you load up the washing machine with colored clothes? You’re not alone! So, what’s the best temperature for washing colors? Let’s break it down with some expert tips that can make all the difference.
Washing colored clothes in cold water (around 60–80°F) is usually the safest choice. Cold water preserves dyes, prevents fading, and helps maintain the integrity of your fabric’s fibers. Cold washes are especially useful for newer clothes that are more prone to color bleeding and work wonders for delicate fabrics, such as linen or lightweight cotton. Plus, cold water is more eco-friendly, saving energy every time you skip the hot cycle!
Sometimes, cold water isn’t quite enough—especially for clothes that are stained, oily, or heavily soiled. Warm water (up to about 90°F) can help break down oils and lift dirt cold water might leave behind. This is useful for tougher fabrics, like denim or sturdy cotton shirts. However, keep in mind warm water may cause colors to fade a bit faster, so use this option sparingly and stick to cold whenever possible
While hot water (over 120°F) is ideal for killing bacteria or sanitizing whites, it’s generally too harsh for colored clothes. Hot water can cause dyes to break down, leading to fading and even color transfer to other items. Using hot water repeatedly can weaken fabric fibers, causing them to wear out faster, which isn’t ideal for your favorite clothes. Avoid hot washes for anything you want to keep looking new.
Laundry detergents come in powder, liquid, and even pod form these days, giving us plenty of options. Some detergents are specially formulated to protect colors, while others are designed for maximum stain removal.
Liquid detergents are popular because they dissolve easily, even in cold water. They’re effective on oily or greasy stains, making them ideal for colored clothes that see a lot of wear, like shirts and pants. Another plus? Liquid detergent doesn’t leave powdery residue, which can sometimes dull colors. For the best color protection, look for liquid formulas labeled “color-safe” or “for dark colors.”
Powder detergents are great for heavy duty cleaning. They pack a lot of power to remove dirt and odors, especially from whites or heavily soiled items. However, they may not dissolve fully in cold water, which can lead to residue on darker fabrics. If you’re washing colored clothes, use powder detergent in warm water to help it dissolve fully and avoid leaving any chalky buildup that can dull your clothes.
Pods combine the convenience of pre-measured detergent with color-safe cleaning power, making them an easy choice for busy laundry days. Most pods are designed to work in both hot and cold water, so they’re often a safe bet for colored clothing. However, pods may be overkill for smaller loads since each pod contains a set amount of detergent. For delicate items or loads with minimal soil, consider a milder approach, like liquid detergent, to avoid over washing.
Choosing the Right Detergent for Color Care:
Faded clothes can be a major disappointment, especially when that once brilliant red or deep navy starts looking washed out and tired. But fading isn’t just about losing color—it’s often a sign of wear and tear on the fabric itself. Luckily, there are simple steps you can take to help your clothes hold on to their vibrancy for as long as possible.
Get professional care for your brightly colored shirts, dresses, and favorite pieces with Julian’s Dry Cleaners. Boasting over six decades of expertise, we’ve not only mastered the art of fabric care but have also built a reputation as Rochester’s most reliable cleaner.
We provide fast, reliable dry cleaning and laundry services in Rochester, New York and its surrounding areas. We are also a trusted provider of premium dry cleaning services for specialty items such as wedding dresses, leather, suede, and even carpets.
Reach out to our customer service team at 585-544-1615 for pricing inquiries and other special cleaning requests.
