Pre-wash by hand?
#12
Super Member
Join Date: May 2011
Location: Pacific NW
Posts: 9,585
I have some black fabric that I'm afraid will bleed so I'm planning to pre-wash. Can I do this by hand?
In these days of high energy costs I don't really want to switch on the washing machine just to wash a metre of fabric. It can't go in with any other items because I'm afraid some of the lint from clothing could transfer to my fabric.
In these days of high energy costs I don't really want to switch on the washing machine just to wash a metre of fabric. It can't go in with any other items because I'm afraid some of the lint from clothing could transfer to my fabric.
#17
Super Member
Join Date: May 2011
Location: Pacific NW
Posts: 9,585
The detergent will displace the dye and prevent it from setting back into the fabric. The good news is you don't need much. This is one of the things Vicki Welsh tested - she used Synthrapol, Retayne, I believe some Rit Dye Fixative, and Dawn. The Dawn worked best out of all the products. She does NOT use a lot - maybe a teaspoon for a full washer load.
#18
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Jan 2023
Location: Wales,UK
Posts: 14
#19
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Jan 2023
Location: Wales,UK
Posts: 14
Thanks for confirming I can get just as good a result without needing the washing machine
#20
Junior Member
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: Northern California
Posts: 268
I always prewash everything--precuts, yardage, scraps--in a sink, tub, or large (24+" diameter) stainless steel bowl in the hottest water my water heater generates, but I never wring. I set up a drying rack in my bath tub or shower stall and let everything drip dry. Most fabrics dry relatively smoothly, and are more manageable than anything dried by wringing and/or placed in a dryer.
I have never heard of using Dawn as a dye fixative and am anxious to try it. Thanks for mentioning it, Peckish, and thanks for the post, Karen.
I have never heard of using Dawn as a dye fixative and am anxious to try it. Thanks for mentioning it, Peckish, and thanks for the post, Karen.