What Is the Ideal Time for Bleach in the Laundry Cycle?

Modern Machines

• Many of today’s washing machines come with a built-in bleach dispenser. To make use of this add-on, simply pour bleach into the dispenser until the liquid reaches the fill line, then add detergent and dirty laundry and start the wash cycle as usual. The dispenser measures and releases the bleach, ensuring the proper amount of whitening agent is dispensed at the appropriate time.

Classic Top-Loaders

• Older washing machines or economy, top-loading models may not have a bleach dispenser. To safely add bleach without using a dispenser, pour the detergent into the drum of the machine, then add 3/4 cup chlorine bleach. Start the machine, allow the wash cycle to run for five minutes, then add the laundry. Super-capacity washers may require additional bleach; adjust the quantity by 1/4 to 1/2 cup for optimal results.

Front-Loaders

• Most front-loading machines have a bleach dispenser, however, there are some that do not. To add bleach to a front-loader without a dispenser, or to add it after the wash cycle has already begun, wait for the machine to stop filling, then pour 1/2 cup chlorine bleach into the soap dispenser; the fluid will trickle into the wash water, effectively bleaching the clothing without damaging the fabrics.

Hand Washing

• Never pour bleach directly onto fabrics, particularly when dealing with delicate hand-washables. Dilute the bleach by mixing 1 tablespoon into 1 cup of cold water, then add the bleaching solution to the wash water. Swish the water a few time to distribute the bleach, and then add the clothing. Adjust the amount of bleach according to the quantity of water being used using no more than 1 tablespoon of bleach per gallon.