First determine if the garment really needs washing or can be worn again. Every wash does a bit of damage. Never wash light colored clothing with dark items. Lint from cotton items will often adhere to dark items making them look "fuzzy".
- Choose the right temperature. Use the coolest temperature possible when washing dark clothing.
- Choose the right detergent. Use a detergent formulated for dark colours. If you don't have one available, use the smallest feasible amount for cleaning your clothes. If you must pretreat a stain, test it first in an inconspicuous spot to ensure there is no fading.
- Select the right washing cycle. Unless your dark clothing is caked with dirt, select a gentle cycle with the least amount of agitation to prevent damage to fibers. Handwashing is always a good option for delicate dark items.
- Load the washing machine correctly. Turn garments inside out before washing. This will prevent fibers from becoming damaged and showing frayed ends and attracting lint.
- Avoid the sun. Drying in direct sunlight can bleach fabrics. Use the clothes dryer or hang clothes in indirect light.
