In terms of cleaning, one of the most important household duties is washing clothes or fabrics. And yes, you’re not the only one who has had accidents like accidentally sneaking a dark garment into the whitewash and staining everything (God, I hate that) or discovering that the colored fabric has lost its original tone. Let’s face it, not all of us have the salary to buy clothes weekly, much less always take them to the dry cleaners.
The good news is that today it is possible to keep colored clothes longer without fading or spending hundreds of dollars in the process. Since the first day I tried it, this is a trick that has blown out my mind!
How to wash your garments with black pepper
Although it may seem hard to believe, black pepper is an ingredient beyond its application in the kitchen. It is also an effective textile protector and color renovator. Interesting, isn’t it? Well, read on and learn how to wash black and dark-colored clothes with pepper, care for the tone of each fabric and prevent their deterioration.
Just by adding a little of this spice in the washing machine when putting your clothes, you can say goodbye to black, grayish, faded, worn or lint-filled fabrics. So, if you feel like your washing method is not enough, and you notice that the fabrics discolors day after day, it is time to put into practice this ancient technique from grandma and make your clothes last for many years.
This is because the structure of the black pepper acts like sandpaper, which loosens detergent residues and prevents them from penetrating the fabrics, thus avoiding white soap stains, lint, or dirt. Follow these simple steps and see the incredible results of this effective homemade trick:
- To activate its properties and reach all the clothes, the first thing to do is to grind the black pepper until it becomes as powdery as possible.
- Introduce dark-colored and black clothing.
- Fill the washing machine with warm water and the detergent of your choice. Before this, check your garment’s instruction’s label about the temperature of the water and such, just in case there’s a restriction on that.
- Set a normal wash cycle and sprinkle 3 tablespoons of pepper on it.
- Once the cycle is finished, you can hang it outdoors or dry it in the dryer. Dirt, whitish marks and lint will be removed, and the fabric will look full of life again.
Keeping your black and colored clothes bright and vibrant has never been easier. If you haven’t tried this method yet, don’t keep thinking about it and run to wash it and add some of this powerful spice, and you know what I like the most? It’s natural, easy to use, non-toxic and very affordable!
The best laundry detergents to prevent fading
Natural laundry detergents
Natural laundry detergents are made with gentle ingredients on clothes and skin. Many of these formulas are also effective in preventing discoloration. Some of the best natural laundry detergents to prevent discoloration include:
Seventh-generation natural laundry detergent: this natural laundry detergent is made with plant-based ingredients that are gentle on clothes and skin. The formula is effective in removing stains and maintaining vibrant colors. Ecos laundry detergent: this natural laundry detergent is made with enzymes and other natural ingredients that effectively remove stains and prevent discoloration.
High-efficiency laundry detergents
High efficiency laundry detergents are designed for use in high efficiency washing machines. These detergents are able to remove more stains than traditional detergents and also consume less water. Many of these detergents are also formulated to prevent discoloration.
Some of the best high efficiency laundry detergents to prevent discoloration include:
- Tide HE Turbo Clean liquid laundry detergent: this Tide detergent is designed for use in high efficiency washing machines. Promises to clean clothes thoroughly using less water. The formula includes ingredients that help prevent discoloration.
- Gain HE Turbo laundry detergent: this Gain laundry detergent is also designed for use in high efficiency washing machines. It promises to remove stubborn stains and maintain vibrant colors. The formula includes fade-resistant ingredients.
Wash clothes the right way to avoid discoloration
Clothing discoloration is a common problem, especially for brightly colored garments. There are several reasons why this occurs, but the most common is that the fabric has been exposed to too much sunlight. UV rays can break down the fabric fibers and cause them to lose their color. Another common cause of discoloration is washing clothes in water that is too hot. High temperatures can also break fibers and cause colors to run.
You should wash your clothes in cold or warm water on a gentle cycle to prevent fading. You should also avoid using bleach, as this can remove the color of the fabrics. If you need to use a detergent, choose one that is designed for colored clothes. You can also add a color-safe fabric softener to help preserve the colors of your clothes. Hang your clothes to dry whenever possible, as exposure to the sun can cause colors to fade quickly.
Combine it with vinegar to soften your garments
Once you have “seasoned” your clothes with pepper and the colors are vibrant and beautiful, you can wash them next time with a small splash of vinegar added directly to the water in the washing machine, which not only works as a splendid natural and eco-friendly disinfectant, but it is also an unbelievable softener that will extend the useful life of the garments.
Since you are now starting to know the natural products for cleaning and clothes washing, here are some new tricks with vinegar -maybe you didn’t know- you can use to keep your house clean and tidy.
If you want to go even greener, try to ditch your dryer sheets, which are really harmful for the environment and your organism. Dryer sheet chemicals adhere to your laundry and filter intro the water and air. And, furthermore, in those months of the year when there’s hot and dry days, and if you have the space, incline for hanging your clothes instead of using the dryer. You will save a lot of money and do a favor for the planet.