How to Prevent Black Clothes from Fading, According to Experts

Confession: I love doing my laundry. Perhaps it’s because of the meditative sound of the suds sloshing through the washer, or the warmth that radiates off of a load straight from the dryer. Or, because after not having a washer/dryer in my N.Y.C. apartment for about a decade, I finally have one to call my own. In fact, I’m writing this while doing my third load of the day. And, although I’m probably one of the few out there that genuinely enjoys this mundane task, I’ll admit: I wasn’t always great at it. 

From shrinking cashmere sweaters to unplanned pink socks, and accidentally bleached items, I’ve made every mistake possible. So, when I was tasked with explaining how to specifically care for black clothing, I knew I had to call in the pros. Fortunately, I already followed a few on Instagram. 

I slid into the DMs of Lisa Jacobs and Patric Richardson. A professional organizer for over 15 years, Jacobs not only knows how to organize homes of any size, but also keep them pristine with a regimented, tried, and true cleaning routines — that includes cleaning the washer and dryer, too. Richardson is also known as The Laundry Guy on Discovery+, and has more than a few tricks up his perfectly pressed sleeves. 

Meet the expert

Ahead, find pro tips from our experienced experts on how to keep black clothing from fading. Whether you’re at the laundromat, a communal laundry room, or have a washer and dryer to call your own, this advice will definitely take your laundry game — and the longevity of your clothing — to the next level.

What Causes Black Clothing to Fade?

In order to treat the problem, it must first be identified. In general, fading is a textile’s response to too much friction. This could be caused by continued excessive abrasion on areas of the garment, or going through an overly aggressive wash cycle. Richardson cautions that too much time, detergent, and heat can all result in black clothing fading, even while they’re being cleaned.

How to Wash Black Clothing Properly

Are you guilty of not separating your lights and darks before throwing a load into the washing machine? For pristine color preservation, you'll want to start. Jacobs suggests taking it a step further and separating your whites, colors, darks, and certain fabric types. Lint-producing items like blankets, towels, knits, and other garments made of wool or cotton should be washed separately, and never added to a dark load of wash. 

Additionally, Richardson recommends using the shortest cycle possible when washing black clothing. This, plus a small amount of detergent and warm water will get your black clothing clean, but not over-stress the fabric as described above.

What Temperature Water Should You Use When Washing Black Clothing?

Interestingly, Jacobs and Richardson differ on the best temperature setting to use when doing a load of dark or black laundry. “Black clothing should be washed in the coldest setting possible,” shares Jacobs. She also notes that warmer temperatures can draw out dyes from the fabric, and also set pre-existing stains into the garment. Richardson, however, prefers using warm water on a shorter setting. “Many people want to use cold water,” he acknowledges, “But in order for cold water to get clothes clean, you need a long cycle, which has worse abrasion,” he explains. In other words, it depends on your preference — and how much time you have.

What Wash Cycle Is Best for Black Clothing?

Again, time and temperature are the most important factors when determining how exactly to wash any type of garment. Both Jacobs and Richardson agree that the black clothing should be laundered using the gentlest setting possible. This is usually called “delicate,” or sometimes “express,” and takes the least amount of time to complete a cycle.

What Type of Detergent Is Best for Black Clothing?

“A specific liquid detergent for darks is great if you have it on hand, but prioritize liquid detergent in general,” instructs Jacobs. Steer clear of powder and pod detergents which tend to be white or light in color, and can leave residue on clothing that can cause fading over time. Notably, Richardson advocates for the use of a plant-based soap or detergent, as others are made to be aggressive and tend to deplete the dye in dark clothing much faster.

How Often Should Black Clothing Be Washed?

So, apparently it is possible to wash your clothing too much. (Add that to my oops column!) Both Richardson and Jacobs agree that black or dark clothing should be washed only when critical (not just visibly dirty, but any time the garment is exposed to outdoor elements and sweat) otherwise spot-treat as needed in order to avoid unnecessary machine agitation. Fewer trips to the washing machine? Say less.

How Does Fabric Type Impact Fading?

Again, it’s all about friction. Stiffer fabrics like wool, denim, and canvas are more susceptible to agitation during the wash cycle than softer fabrics like cotton or linen. However, more delicate fabrics tend to fade faster as fibers start to break down more easily. So, no matter the fabric, only wash black clothing when necessary in order to prolong the longevity of the garment.

How to Wash Black Clothing with Vinegar

If you’re ready to level up your laundry game, it’s time to bring out the big guns and deploy some white distilled vinegar. This kitchen pantry staple naturally protects the color in clothing by removing excess soap in both the machine and on the garment. “Add one cup to the wash during the rinse cycle, leaving enough time for the cycle to complete with no odor left behind,” instructs Jacobs. 

Can Faded Black Clothing Be Fixed?

For those of us with primarily black wardrobes (or even just a few favorite pieces), prepare to meet your new best friends. Jacobs favors "back to black" dye, while Richardson is an advocate for the old-school method of bluing, which is often used to brighten white clothing by adding trace amounts of blue dye to the garment during the wash cycle. If you’re not ready to commit to a potentially messy DIY dye job, bluing can be a good option for restoring black clothing, too.

SHOP: Rit Back to Black Dye Kit  / Mrs. Stewart's Concentrated Liquid Bluing

How to Make Black Clothing Last Longer

While Jacobs and Richardson agree that spot-treating as needed and washing only when necessary is best, they shared a few tips for laundry day. "Before you throw your stuff into the machine, carefully read all tags and labels on garments for the suggested care," says Jacobs. "Then, to reduce agitation and friction, be sure to close all buttons, snaps, and zippers before starting the cycle." And Richardson advocates for a steamer. "If you want to wear a particular garment right away but don’t want to do a full load of darks, try a quick steam," says the pro, adding that, "It can often make something look brand new."

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