Over time and with frequent use and washing, white clothes can lose their pure whiteness and sparkle due to several factors such as the accumulation of calcium deposits, detergent residues, and sweat.
اضافة اعلان
Websites like Good Housekeeping and The Spruce suggest that simple home remedies can help restore the natural whiteness of clothes without the need for harsh chemicals.
Causes of Yellowing of White Clothes
Several factors contribute to the yellowing of clothes, the most common being:
Calcium Deposits and Detergent Residues: These accumulate with each wash, especially when large amounts of detergent are used or when clothes aren’t rinsed thoroughly.
Sweat: Natural chemicals in sweat can interact with the fibers, causing them to change color.
Mixing Clothes: Washing white clothes with colored items can cause color transfer, leading to a grayish or pale yellowish tint.
Home Remedies to Restore the Brightness of Clothes
White Vinegar: One of the most popular natural remedies for brightening clothes, as it helps break down residues and reduce detergent build-up.
How to Use:
Prepare a solution of warm water and half a cup of white vinegar.
Soak the clothes in this solution for 30 minutes before placing them in the washing machine.
For stains, apply vinegar directly to the affected area and leave it for a few minutes before washing.
Salt and Baking Soda: Both help remove stains and clean the fibers deeply without resorting to harsh chemicals.
How to Use:
Salt: Add about 50 grams of table salt to the washing machine with the detergent, and wash the clothes at 60°C.
Baking Soda: You can add a small packet or two tablespoons of baking soda to the wash cycle to boost cleaning power and remove residues.
Sunlight: A natural bleaching agent, especially for cotton fabrics.
How to Use:
It’s best to dry clothes outdoors, as UV rays gradually whiten fabrics.
Be careful not to expose delicate fabrics to direct sunlight for extended periods to prevent color fading.
How to Maintain the Brightness of Clothes?
To avoid yellowing from the start, it’s recommended to follow these tips:
Separate Clothes: Wash white and dark clothes separately to prevent color transfer.
Use Suitable Detergents: Use detergents that contain optical brighteners specifically designed to maintain whiteness.
Correct Dosage: Be sure to use the recommended amount of detergent, as overuse can leave residues that contribute to yellowing over time.
