
So, your clothes are looking like a tie-dye disaster after washing? Yeah, I’ve been there. Color bleed is annoying, but it’s actually not that tough to fix. Here are five ways that actually work when your favorite shirt gets stained with dye from something else.
Why Does Color Bleed Happen?
Color bleed is what happens when the dye from one piece of clothing transfers onto another. This is especially common with new clothes or dark colors like red, blue, or black. It’s not your fault—it’s just how the dye reacts when it gets wet.
5 Simple Ways to Fix Color Bleed
- Try Color Remover
I’ve used this before, and it really works. If the dye has already bled, color remover can help get it out. Just follow the instructions, and you’ll see the stains fade away. - Soak in Vinegar and Water
This one’s super easy. Mix some vinegar and water—about one part vinegar to four parts water—and soak your clothes for 30 minutes. Then just wash them like you normally would. Vinegar helps stop the color from spreading. - Use Oxygen Bleach
Oxygen bleach is gentler than regular bleach but still gets the job done. Soak your clothes in warm water with oxygen bleach for a few hours, then wash. It won’t hurt the fabric but should help get rid of the stain. - Always Wash with Cold Water
If you’re washing clothes that bled, use cold water. Hot water makes the dye spread, while cold water will keep it from getting worse. It’s a simple fix, but it works. - Use a Color Catcher Sheet
I never used these before, but now I always keep a pack around. You just throw one of these sheets in the wash, and it catches any loose dye that might bleed onto your other clothes. It’s a simple step to prevent color problems.
What Not to Do
Don’t use regular bleach. I tried that once, and it just made things worse. Also, never wash in hot water—it makes everything spread.
Preventing It Next Time
To avoid future issues, I always wash new clothes separately. Dark colors are especially risky. And I use color catcher sheets every time now.