Dye Fabric Using a Front Loading Washing Machine

This method is different from the standard directions for dyeing in a washing machine. When using a front loading washing machine, the fabric must be added first. Front loading machines measure the amount of water to put in the machine by the amount of fabric in the machine.

Steps

  1. Use the washer's hottest water setting.
  2. Use a wash cycle of at least 30 minutes to obtain a satisfactory dyeing.
  3. Use RIT Dye for the best results.
  4. Follow the package or label instructions as you normally would, except...
  5. Place the wet fabric into the washer before beginning the dye cycle; start filling machine.
  6. Pre-dissolve the dye into four cups of very hot tap water.
  7. Once dissolved, pour the dye solution into the washer’s dispenser.
  8. After the dye solution has entered the washer, flush the dispenser with another four cups of very hot tap water.
  9. One package or one-half bottle dyes 1 lb. dry weight or about {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} medium fabric to a medium color. Depending on your washer’s brand, the dyeing may be slightly darker than the color represented on the package or bottle.
  10. Clean washing machine immediately after dyeing has completed using the hottest water setting.
  11. Place 3-4 old towels into the washer along with detergent and 1 to 2 cups chlorine bleach.
  12. Wipe spills with chlorine bleach solution.

Tips

  • In many cases immediately after adding the dye solution, the garment may have a mottled appearance. This appearance will become level as the dyeing process continues.
  • Heat the water to almost boiling.
  • Use Rit Color Remover before dyeing fabric to a lighter or different color.
  • The Kenmore machine also directs the user to remove the dispenser. Any dye that stayed in the channel can then be wiped away using bleach.
  • Have a large amount of old towels or rags to put in the machine for the clean up stage.
  • Never use more than a total of 4 packages or 2 bottles of Rit Dye.

Warnings

  • Wear rubber gloves
  • Not recommended for 100% polyester, 100% acrylic or fabrics with special finishes, rubber backing, washable only in cold water or labeled Dry Clean Only.
  • When pre-dissolving Rit Fabric Treatment, AVOID BREATHING DUST AND USE WITH ADEQUATE VENTILATION.
  • Important
  • Be sure to follow manufacturer’s fabric care labels when washing, drying, and pressing.

Things You'll Need

  • Rit dye sufficient for the amount of fabric but no more than 4 boxes
  • Pretreatment to remove color, if necessary
  • salt
  • a large disposable plastic pitcher to mix the dye in (You will not want to use the pitcher again!). Or use a glass pitcher, which won't stain.
  • rubber gloves (to keep your hands from getting stained)
  • a large amount of old towels or rags (to fill up the machine for cleaning)

Related Articles

Sources and Citations

  • www.ritdye.com
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