When washing dark clothes, it's generally best to separate them from light-colored clothing to avoid color bleeding or staining. Mixing dark colors with light colors in the same laundry load can potentially lead to the transfer of dye from the dark garments to the lighter ones, causing discoloration or fading.
To keep your clothes looking their best, follow these guidelines for separating laundry:
Sort by Color: Group dark-colored items, such as black, navy, dark brown, and deep red, together in one load. Separately, put light-colored clothing like whites, pastels, and light grays in another load.
Consider Fabric Types: Additionally, consider the fabric types when separating clothes. Some delicate fabrics, like silk or lace, should always be washed separately, regardless of color.
New Garments: New dark-colored garments, especially those that are deeply dyed, are more likely to bleed during the first few washes. It's a good idea to wash them separately or with similar dark colors until you're confident that they won't bleed anymore.
Wash Similar Colors Together: If you have a load of dark-colored clothing, it's generally safe to wash them together since they have similar dyes and are less likely to cause color transfer issues.
Use Cold Water: Washing dark clothes in cold water can help minimize color bleeding. Cold water is also gentler on fabrics and can help preserve their appearance.
Prevent Snags: Turn clothes inside out to protect the outer surfaces during washing, especially if they have any embellishments or delicate prints.
By sorting your laundry based on color and fabric type, you can help preserve the vibrancy and quality of your clothing while reducing the risk of color bleeding or staining. Remember to always follow the care instructions on the garment labels for the best washing practices.