How to Remove Colour Run From Coloured Clothes

Colour runs can be a frustrating issue for many. They occur when dye from one piece of clothing bleeds onto another during the washing process. This is especially common with new, brightly coloured clothes and darker fabrics. When it comes to colour runs, it’s usually quite challenging to completely remove them. We can try to reduce the staining, but results vary depending on the condition of the fabric.

Understanding how to effectively manage and remove these stains can help keep your wardrobe looking fresh and vibrant.

Why Do Colours Run in the Wash?

Colour runs often happen when clothes are washed together without proper sorting. New clothes, especially those with bright or dark colours, are more likely to bleed dye when they are first washed. The excess dye from these items can transfer onto other clothes, causing unwanted stains and discolouration.

To prevent and handle colour runs, it’s important to be proactive and take the necessary steps to care for your clothes properly. In the following sections, we’ll provide detailed instructions on how to remove dye transfer stains from both coloured and white clothes. By following these steps, you can effectively manage colour runs and keep your clothes in top condition.

What You’ll Need

To tackle colour run and dye transfer stains, you’ll need:

• Stain remover for coloured clothes
• Oxygen-based bleach
• Mild detergent
• A basin or sink
• Cold water
• Soft cloth or sponge

How to Remove Dye Transfer Stains From Coloured Clothes

1. Check Your Laundry Load for Stains 

Before taking any action, carefully inspect your laundry load for signs of dye transfer. Look for any discolouration or patches where the dye has transferred from one garment to another. Early detection can make a significant difference in how effectively the fabric stains can be treated.

2. Spot Clean Affected Area

Spot cleaning is an effective way to remove dye transfer stains on specific areas of your clothing without having to rewash the entire garment. Here’s how to do it:

1. Apply Stain Remover: Apply a small amount of stain remover directly onto the affected area. Let the stain remover sit for the time specified in the product instructions to allow the product to penetrate and lift the dye stain.
2. Dab with a Clean Cloth: Using a clean cloth or sponge, gently dab the stained area. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the dye and embed it deeper into the fabric. Continue dabbing until you see the dye transfer stain starting to lift.
3. Rinse with Cold Water: Rinse the treated area thoroughly with cold water to remove any residual stain remover and lifted dye. Make sure to rinse from the back of the fabric to push the stain out rather than back into the fabric.

3. Rewash Coloured Clothes

If spot cleaning doesn’t completely remove the dye transfer stains, the next step is to rewash the stained items. For this process, use a mixture of oxygen bleach in addition to your regular laundry detergent. Unlike chlorine bleach, oxygen bleach is safe for coloured clothes and won’t cause further damage, all while effectively breaking down dye stains. Here’s how to use it in your next wash:

1. Prepare the Solution: Oxygen bleach works effectively at any water temperature. However, if your water is very cold, dissolve the powder in warm water first to ensure proper activation. Be sure to follow the package instructions carefully for the best results.
2. Load the Washing Machine: Place the stained clothes in the washing machine, making sure not to overload it. Overloading can prevent proper cleaning and stain removal.
3. Wash Cycle: Select a gentle cycle with cold water.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: After the wash cycle, inspect the clothes to see if the stains have lightened or disappeared. If necessary, repeat the process for better results.

Note that oxygen bleach is safe for all washable white or coloured fabrics, but it should not be used on silk, leather, or wool. These materials can have their colour stripped off by the bleach, causing damage.

4. Soak Clothes

For more stubborn stains, soaking is essential. Here’s how to do it:

1. Prepare the Soak: Dissolve the oxygen bleach in a basin filled with cold water as per the package instructions. Stir to ensure it’s fully dissolved.
2. Submerge the Clothes: Place the stained clothes in the solution, making sure they are fully submerged.
3. Soak Time: Allow the clothes to soak for at least eight hours. For tougher stains, mix a fresh batch of solution and soak for another eight hours. You may need to do this several times, depending on the severity of the stain.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: After soaking, rinse the clothes thoroughly with cold water to remove any residual bleach.

5. Check and Wash as Usual

After soaking, check the clothes for any remaining stains. If the stains are significantly reduced, wash the garments as usual, following the care instructions on the labels to avoid damaging the fabric.

6 Tips for Avoiding and Handling Dye Transfer Stains

Preventing dye transfer and colour runs is crucial for maintaining the vibrancy and longevity of your clothes. Here are some additional tips to help you keep your laundry looking its best:

• Always separate dark and light colours before washing.
• Use cold water to wash new, brightly coloured clothes.
• Add a colour run remover to the wash to prevent dye transfer.
• Avoid overloading the washing machine to ensure thorough cleaning.
• Pre-treat new clothes with a stain remover for coloured clothes.
• Wash clothes inside out to minimise direct dye contact.

When to Get Professional Help 

For important garments or particularly stubborn stains, professional assistance is often the best option. With extensive experience in handling all types of stains and fabrics, Big Mama’s laundry services ensure your clothes receive the most effective and gentle treatment, restoring them to their best condition without risk of damage.

Entrusting your garments to professionals saves you time and effort, giving you peace of mind that your clothes are in good hands. Whether it’s an irreplaceable item of clothing or a stubborn stain that won’t budge, our professional laundry and dry cleaning services are the perfect solution to keep your clothes looking their best.

Ensure Your Clothes Stay Vibrant and Stain-Free

Managing colour runs and dye transfer stains doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right techniques and products, you can restore your clothes to their original state and maintain their vibrant colours.

For persistent stains or delicate fabrics, choosing professional services like those offered by Big Mama ensures your garments receive the expertise and care needed to keep them in excellent condition. By being proactive and following these guidelines, you can keep your wardrobe looking fresh and new, free from the frustrations of colour runs.