Imli Diaries

Turn off the Lights: Protecting Naturally Dyed Clothes from Fading

You know that feeling when you’re blissfully asleep and someone suddenly yanks open the curtains? It's jarring, isn't it? Well, naturally dyed clothes experience a similar jolt when exposed to direct sunlight. 

Naturally dyed fabrics are particularly sensitive to light because the dyes are derived from natural sources like plants, insects, and minerals. Unlike synthetic dyes, which are engineered to be more resistant to fading, natural dyes tend to break down and lose their color when exposed to UV rays from the sun or even strong indoor lighting.

Practical Tips for Storing Naturally Dyed Clothes:

1. Avoid Direct Sunlight: Store naturally dyed clothes in a dark closet or drawer where sunlight cannot reach them. Even a little exposure can cause noticeable fading over time.

2. Fold Inside-Out: When storing your clothes, fold them inside-out. This helps protect the outer surface from any incidental light exposure and reduces the risk of dust settling on the visible side.

3. Use Protective Covers: For an added layer of protection, wrap your garments in a light, breathable cloth such as cotton or muslin. This cover will shield them from light while allowing air circulation, which helps prevent mold and mildew.

4. Temperature Control: Keep your storage area cool and dry. Heat can accelerate the breakdown of natural dyes, so avoid places like basements where temperature and humidity levels can fluctuate widely.

5. Dry in the shade: Since naturally dyed clothes and sunlight don’t mix, hang them to dry in the shade. Direct sunlight can also lead to shrinkage, which is another reason to dry in the shade. 

Be Gentle, Pls

Unlike their chemical counterparts, natural dyes don't bond as tightly with fabrics, making them susceptible to fading and damage during washing. Here’s how you can keep them looking vibrant and fresh with some careful washing techniques.

1. Choose the Right Soap: Opt for natural or gentle pH-neutral synthetic soaps. These mild cleansers are less likely to disturb the delicate dyes. Avoid any soaps with strong chemicals, fragrances, or dyes which can affect the natural colors. For Ajrakh printed clothes, using a mild shampoo is especially beneficial.

2. Avoid Bleach and Harsh Detergents: Bleach and harsh detergents can be incredibly damaging to naturally dyed fabrics. They can cause the dyes to fade or run, and weaken the fabric over time. Always check the labels to ensure your detergent is safe for delicate fabrics.

3. Hand Wash When Possible: Hand washing is the safest method for naturally dyed clothes. Use cool or lukewarm water, as hot water can cause dyes to bleed. Gently agitate the water and avoid scrubbing or wringing the fabric.

4. Use a Gentle Machine Cycle: If you must use a washing machine, select the gentlest cycle and use a mesh laundry bag to protect the garments. Wash them separately or with other delicate items to prevent friction and damage.

Separate Your Laundry (Do What Your Mum Says)

Humans bleed, and so do naturally dyed clothes—especially during the first few washes. Indigo-dyed garments are particularly notorious for color bleeding. To avoid unwanted color transfers and preserve the vibrancy of your naturally dyed pieces, follow these simple steps:

1. Test for Colorfastness: Before the first wash, soak newly bought naturally dyed clothes in cold water to see if they bleed color. If they do, continue to rinse until the water runs clear.

2. Sort by Color: Always wash similar colors together. Group your naturally dyed clothes by color families to prevent any bleeding colors from staining lighter fabrics.

3. Use Cold Water: Cold water helps minimize color bleeding. Hot water can cause dyes to release from the fabric, leading to color transfer and fading.
   
   

And most importantly, don’t forget: loved clothes last!