It happens to everyone: a new red kurta turns a white shirt pink, or a favourite top comes out a size smaller. Here is what causes it and what can still be done.
Why colour bleeds
New, dark and brightly dyed fabrics, especially red, navy and black, release excess dye in water. Hot water and long soaks make it worse.
If colour has run onto other clothes
- Re-wash the affected items right away, before drying, in cool water.
- Do not dry them. Heat sets the dye.
- A colour-run remover product may help on white cotton. Follow its instructions.
Why clothes shrink
Natural fibres such as cotton and wool relax in heat and agitation, then tighten as they dry. Rayon and viscose are especially prone to it.
If a garment has shrunk
Slightly shrunk cotton can sometimes be stretched back while damp, by gently reshaping and drying flat. Wool may recover a little by soaking in cool water with mild conditioner and reshaping. Serious shrinkage usually cannot be reversed.
Prevention
- Wash new dark clothes separately the first few times.
- Use cool water for coloured items.
- Follow the label and avoid high-heat drying.
Frequently asked questions
Why did my white shirt turn pink?
A red or dark item released dye in the wash. Wash new coloured items separately.
Can shrunk clothes be fixed?
Mild shrinkage in cotton or wool can sometimes be improved by gentle stretching, but serious shrinkage is usually permanent.
Need help with this? Laundry in Mira Road East · See our rates · Call or WhatsApp 88508 46790.