Removing the Bleeding Color from Quilting

Washing

• Sometimes dye can bleed because the quilt has not been washed adequately before being shipped off and retailed. In these instances the simplest solution is to wash the quilt repeatedly to get rid of excess dye. Before you do so, check that the dye won’t attach itself to the white areas by dampening the dyed bit, ironing it dry and pressing it against the white. If it stays white go ahead and wash it, otherwise you’ll need to use a special product.

Bleach

• You can try bleaching your quilt, however you will need to use a color-safe bleach to ensure the colored areas don’t become discolored. Before using a product like this you should also check the care instructions of the quilt to make sure it won’t become damaged. These products are easy to use as you usually just fill the bath with water and the bleach and soak the quilt in it for several hours. Just remember to rinse the bath thoroughly before you use it!

Dye Fixative

• As the name suggests, a dye fixative will fix the color onto the quilt to prevent it from bleeding when washing. Fixative is used during the prewash. The problem with using fixatives is that whether they work or not will depend on what type of dye was used. For example a fixative for an acid dye will make fiber reactive dyes fade. Check the label carefully and use only if you know exactly how your quilt was made.

Synthrapol

• Synthrapol works by removing loose dyes from the fabric, meaning the dyes that will bleed. It is gentler than other products as it has a lower pH, therefore can be used on more delicate fabrics. Synthrapol is used in the washing machine and only a small quantity is needed, around a quarter of a cup per load.