What Will Help Laundry for Rusty Water?

Whole House Filters

• If you live in a rural area and have your own well, chances are you aren't treating your water. Iron sediment is very common in rural wells, and you may also be ingesting other chemicals and minerals as well. Installing a whole house filter can reduce the amount of iron in your water and help make your water safe to drink, bathe in and wash your clothes. Iron sediment builds up, and you may need to replace the filter several times a year.

Laundry Softener

• Using liquid laundry softener in the wash can help reduce the amount of staining in rusty water. This should be inserted into the washer before the rinse cycle. In most newer washers, there will be a receptacle to add this softener when you start your laundry. In older models, you may need to time the cycles to know when to insert the softener. Other solutions include softener balls that will release the softener at the right time in the wash cycle.

Phosphate Detergents

• Although phosphate detergents are not recommended for use anymore, these detergents are effective at keeping rusty water from staining clothes. You may need to search to find a brand that still includes phosphates. Although there are some environmental complications that have been associated with this type of detergent, the ingredients do keep iron from staining your clothes. This method should only be used if you have exhausted all other avenues in keeping your clothes free from iron stains.

Removing Iron Stains

• If your clothes have already been affected by iron in your water, you can remove, or at least reduce, the appearance of rust stains. Load the clothes into the washer, and use a commercial rust remover for fabrics such as Rust Off, Rit Rust Remover or Whink. Clothes will need to be rinsed very thoroughly if you use these products as they can weaken fabrics; use a second rinse cycle just in case, and always follow label instructions.