How to conduct a colorfast test and avoid color bleeds

We all fear the red t-shirt that turns the whole wash load pink. Avoid laundry mishaps by conducting a colorfast test.

First, check the label. Clothing labels that read "wash separately," "wash in cold water," "hand wash," "do not use detergent" or "turn inside out to launder" may indicate that the dyes in these items are not colorfast and may bleed onto other garments in the wash.

Then, conduct your colorfast test:
1. Soak an inconspicuous corner of the material in a cup of warm water and a teaspoon of detergent.
2. Wait for two to three minutes (less time for pre-treatment stain removers; follow instructions on the product label).
3. Then, blot with a white paper towel. If the colors do not change, run, or come off on the paper towel, and if the item is definitely washable, you may safely use Shout® stain remover products.

Also, avoid trouble before it starts with Shout® Color Catcher Dye-Trapping Sheet. They absorb and trap loose dyes in your wash water, protecting lighter colored clothes from dangerous color bleeds.