How do I keep colors from bleeding?

Concerns & risks

You were trying to wash a load quickly, but a new red shirt turned all your white socks pink.

Everyday mishaps add up.

Causes & evidence

Wash new bright colors separately in cold. See laundry care labels.

What to do

1. Wash new colors separately.
2. Use cold water.
3. Read the label.

Common mistakes: Common mistakes: washing brand-new bright or dark items with light colors. Some dyes bleed, especially in early washes. Wash new bright items separately or with similar colors for the first few washes. Use cold water. Turn dark clothes inside out. If bleeding happens, rewash the affected items right away before drying, possibly with a color-removing product suitable for the fabric. Color catcher sheets can absorb loose dye in the water. Wash full loads by color: lights, darks and brights. Avoid leaving wet colored clothes piled together, since dye can transfer. Check the care label for 'wash separately' or 'wash with like colors.' Dark jeans in particular can bleed for several washes.

Speed Man tip: Color catcher sheets can help.

Wrap-up: Separate. Cold. Label.