Should You Still Separate Colors When Washing Clothes?

Discover the best practices for washing clothes and whether separating colors is necessary to prevent dye transfer.

Published Jun 12, 2025

Overview

In laundry routines, a common question arises: do you still need to separate colors when washing? This video explores the importance of sorting your laundry by color to prevent dye transfer, especially for new or vibrant garments. Utilizing expert advice on color-catching sheets and washing techniques can help safeguard your favorite clothes from unwanted color stains, enhancing your laundry experience and maintaining your wardrobe's integrity.

Video transcript

Yes, it's generally advisable to separate colors when washing to prevent dark or vibrant colors from bleeding onto lighter garments. Use color-catching sheets for mixed loads and wash new, brightly colored clothes separately for the first few washes to avoid dye transfer.

Questions and answers

Why should I separate my laundry by color?
Separating laundry by color is essential to prevent dye transfer, which can lead to discoloration of lighter fabrics. Dark or vibrant colors can bleed onto lighter clothes during the wash cycle, resulting in unwanted stains.
What are color-catching sheets and how do they work?
Color-catching sheets are special laundry sheets designed to absorb loose dye particles during the wash cycle, helping to prevent color bleeding. They can be used in mixed loads to protect lighter garments from darker ones.
How can I wash new clothes to avoid dye transfer?
To avoid dye transfer, it's best to wash new, brightly colored clothes separately for the first few washes. You can also use cold water and a gentle detergent to minimize bleeding.
Are there any tips for washing whites and colors together?
If you must wash whites and colors together, use a color-catching sheet and opt for cold water. However, separating them whenever possible is still the best practice to ensure the longevity of your garments.