Tips For Doing Colorfastness Test

colorfastness is the ability of a fabric or other substances to keep the same color without fading or running even if washed, placed in harsh light, exposed to perspiration, or treated with certain chemicals.

Testing for colorfastness is an essential step in cleaning any fabric. Whether you plan on washing a new pair of jeans or spot cleaning an upholstered chair, knowing how your fabric will react to the product in which you are going to use is essential. It will also a prevent a possible disaster in the washing machine when colors from one garment can bleed onto all the other clothes in the same load.
One easy way to test if a fabric is colorfast is to dampen a clean, white cloth. Rub the wet cloth on an interior seam or hem of a colored garment. If any color comes off onto the white cloth, then the item is not colorfast and the dye will run when the garment is washed.

For a more thorough test for specific detergents and laundry products, use the following tips:

1. Mix one teaspoon of the laundry product (detergent, stain remover, chlorine bleach, or oxygen bleach) with 1/2 cup of warm water. Stir well to mix and be sure that any powdered formulas are completely dissolved.

2. Turn to an interior seam or hem. If you are concerned that the solution will bleed through to the right side of the fabric, place a dry, white cotton cloth under the test area.

3. Dip a cotton swab in the solution and dab it onto the test area.

4. Blot the area with a white paper towel. If the color comes off onto the white paper towel, the fabric will bleed dye. If the color of the test area has changed or become lighter, the dye will bleed.

5. If you have a garment with different colors (strips, color-blocks, or graphic print), test each colored area separately.

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