Q&A for How to Set Colors in Clothes

Colored towels are washed the same way as white towels, taking care to avoid using fabric softeners or dryer sheets which prevent the towels from absorbing liquid. Instead, hang-dry your towels or tumble dry on the lowest setting to limit static.

I wash most things inside out, buttoned and zippered.

You add both detergent and salt for best results. If your washer has a detergent area, you can add the detergent there, and the salt above the clothes.

Only once is necessary; that wash does the setting for most dyes (although some reds may run for several washes). Vinegar can be added as a disinfectant or a need to brighten the fabrics and lighter wash loads.

Absolutely! However, if the water starts to turn blue, rinse the top until the rinse water remains clear, then set it to soak again in salt.

Use 1/2 cup vinegar and enough water to cover the items. (If you wish, you can add 1 tablespoon of salt). Use cold, warm, or hot water depending on the temperature you will normally use to launder the clothes. Swish the water to thoroughly mix in the vinegar and/or salt and add the clothes. Leave to soak for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 24 hours. To rinse, wring out the items, refill the sink with clean water, and swish the items around. If the water colors, repeat until the rinse water remains clear. Hang the items to dry.