PB CARE
9 must-know tips to keep black clothing from fading
Black is timeless, elegant, and suits every style, from casual to formal. It has a slimming effect and pairs perfectly with all kinds of colors. One thing is certain: black clothing requires special care to keep its color rich and deep. And we know how!
Tip to keep black clothing from fading: pre-treate
Many black garments fade even before they’re washed. By preparing your items properly, you can prevent color loss and wear.
1. Only wash when absolutely necessary
Black clothing doesn’t need to be washed after every wear. Frequent washing can weaken fibers and fade the color. Hang your clothes on a hanger after wearing and let them air out (avoid direct sunlight). This helps remove odors and prevents unnecessary wear on dark clothing.
2. Freshen up instead of washing
If you want your black clothes to smell fresh without washing, use a fabric refresher or soak them in cold water with a splash of vinegar. Vinegar is a natural remedy that neutralizes odors and helps fix colors in your clothing.
3. Spot-treat stains to avoid unnecessary washing
Stains? Don’t panic! Instead of throwing the entire garment in the washer, use a wash & stain bar or a similar product to treat just the stain. This is especially helpful for delicate fabrics like silk, lace, or cashmere. Let the spot air dry afterward.
Tip to keep black clothing from fading: washing
Washing black clothing requires precision, as proper washing is essential to significantly extend the lifespan of your favorite garments.
4. Wash black clothing separately and sort by weight
Always wash dark clothes with other dark items to avoid discoloration. It’s also important to sort by weight: heavier garments, like black jeans or hoodies, can rub against lighter fabrics like T-shirts and underwear, causing damage and color loss.
5. Turn your dark clothing inside out before washing
Washing black clothing inside out protects the outer surface from friction and wear in the machine. This helps prevent fading and keeps the color deep and rich.
6. Use a low temperature and short cycle
Hot water is the enemy of black clothing. Always choose the coldest possible setting for your laundry—preferably 20°C or 30°C—and use a short wash cycle. This not only saves energy but also prevents dye from leaching out of the fibers.
7. Choose the right detergent
Liquid detergent is the best choice for washing black clothing because it dissolves in cold water and doesn’t leave powdery residue. A detergent specifically formulated for dark fabrics is even better, as it’s designed to combat fading and strengthen fibers.
Did you know that…
Use vinegar as a miracle solution
A splash of vinegar in the drum not only helps fix the black color but also removes detergent residue. Plus, vinegar acts as a natural fabric softener without harmful chemicals.
Add salt during the first wash of new clothes
Salt helps fix the black color of new garments and prevents dark fabrics from bleeding. This is especially important for new black items you’re washing for the first time.
Espresso as a color booster
Did you know that two cups of espresso in the rinse cycle can intensify the color of your black clothing? It works as a natural dye and gives dull fabrics a refresh. So, give your washing machine a shot of espresso too.
Always opt for liquid detergent in your washer
Liquid detergent dissolves completely at low temperatures, unlike powder, which can leave residues that damage fibers. Moreover, specialized liquid detergents for dark or black fabrics provide the best results for your laundry.
Tip to keep black clothing from fading: drying and ironing
After washing your dark clothing on a cold cycle, it’s important to dry it properly and remove any wrinkles gently.
8. Avoid the dryer; air-dry after washing
Black clothing and dryers don’t mix well. The high temperatures can damage fibers and fade the color. Let your clothes air dry after washing, preferably on a hanger or drying rack. Avoid direct sunlight, as UV rays can bleach the color. Once dry, hang them in your closet.
9. Steam instead of ironing
Steaming is a gentle way to remove wrinkles without damaging the fabric. It’s especially suitable for delicate fabrics like chiffon, silk, or linen. If you must iron, use the lowest temperature setting and iron your clothing inside out to avoid shiny spots.
Extra tips for your wardrobe
Invest in quality clothing: Cheaper fabrics often fade faster. Opt for high-quality materials that are more resistant to washing and wear. Time to buy that new pair of black pants! 😉
Avoid white detergents or bleach: These often contain substances that cause dark clothing to fade. Instead, use specially formulated detergents to preserve the deepest color and wash on the coldest possible setting.
Rotate your wardrobe: By alternating your dark clothing, you reduce how often they’re worn, which extends their lifespan and reduces washing frequency.
With these comprehensive care tips, you can be sure that your black garments will stay beautifully deep black and last longer. Whether you’re a minimalist or love extravagant outfits, black remains a timeless choice in every wardrobe and is easy to pair with various colors.
We’ve made a selection of our favorite black items. Shop now and enjoy your black garments as long as possible using our tips!
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Blog by:
Marissa
Do you have an urgent question about a particular fabric and its properties? Marissa knows everything about fabrics and provides the best maintenance tips. Additionally, she has a talent for mixing and matching styles and materials with a contemporary nonchalance.
