How to Do the Bleach Test on Your Laundry

Household bleach has long been used to keep whites white. More importantly, at least to me, is the fact that it does a marvelous job of disinfecting laundry. With all of the germs, bacteria and viruses floating around in today’s world, I want my family’s laundry to be as clean and sanitary as possible. Bleach kills bacteria, salmonella choleraesuis, Streptococcus pyogenes, E. coli, Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Candida albicans, Influenza A, Hepatitis A, Herpes simplex Type 2, and more. However, you can’t use household bleach on everything because it can damage some fabrics. Read this informative article and find out how to do the bleach test on your laundry.

Warning– Don’t use household bleach on leather, mohair, non-fast colors, silk, spandex or wool.

1. Check the Care Tag on the Item

The care tag will tell you what the manufacturer’s recommendations for laundering that specific item are. Among other things, it will tell you whether-or-not household bleach can be used, or if a color-safe bleach can be used. If the tag’s missing and/or you’re not sure whether you can use bleach, then proceed to Step #2.

2. The Bleach Test

Measure out and pour a ¼ cup of water in a glass jar or bowl. Measure out 1-1/2 teaspoons of household bleach and add it to the water. Carefully mix the two together. Then, apply a drop of the mixture to a hidden area, such as on the inside of a hem. Wait 1 minute. Blot the drop with a clean, white towel. Check the fabric. If there’s no change in the color, it’s safe to use bleach when you launder the item. If there is a change in the color, such as fading, skip the bleach altogether or use a product that’s safe for colored laundry.

Resources

http://www.clorox.com/clorox-cleaning-and-laundry-advisor/laundry-advisor/advice/bleachability-test/