It’s never fun to do a load of laundry only to find that your favorite denim jeans or jackets have faded in the wash. This is especially disheartening if the item is ruined the first time you try to clean it. Fortunately, there are a handful of laundry care tricks that will preserve the look and integrity of your dark-colored clothing. Here are a few to keep in mind next time you head to the laundromat. 

How to Keep Your Dark Clothes From Fading

1. Use Special Detergent

Several major detergent brands make products specifically formulated for colors. Wash dark garments separately with one of these high-quality liquid detergents. Add the soap to the bottom of the washer drum to prevent spots or residue from forming on your clothes. 

2. Wash Cold

High temperatures are notorious for causing colors to fade and dyes to bleed. Always wash your denim and other dark garments in cold water on a gentle or permanent press spin cycle. For delicate blouses, err on the side of caution by hand washing them in cold water and setting them out to dry on an indoor rack. 

3. Turn Garments Inside-Out

Turning your dark clothing inside-out prior to throwing it in the washer will prevent their exteriors from coming into direct contact with soap and water. The inside-out method is also helpful for preventing lint and signs of distress to the fabric. 

4. Add Vinegar & Salt

One of the best-kept laundry care secrets is vinegar. It prevents dyes in fabrics from bleeding, so add a cup to your next load of dark laundry. Additionally, include a teaspoon of iodized salt to help set the dyes during the spin cycle. 

Keep your dark clothes fresh, pristine, and protected at Evans Mill Laundry in Lithonia, GA. This self-service laundromat offers super-capacity washing machines, high-efficiency dryers, and wash-and-fold services. They’re also proud to provide flat-screen TVs, video games, and free Wi-Fi, so you’re entertained while you wait for your clothes to get clean. To learn more about the facility, including payment methods, call (770) 484-9974 or visit them online. For more laundry care tips and company updates, like them on Facebook.