Even with the most advanced dying techniques, dyed garments are prone to color fading over time due to wash and wear. Here are some general guidelines on how to avoid color fading and preserving garment color.
- Many softeners, washing detergents and stain removers contain bleach, which can remove the color out of the fabric and leave unwanted light spots or cause more severe color fade.
- Bright sunlight and wearing garments wet can accelerate fading. Avoid darker colors when you're out and about under the sun. At the beach, keep your garments in the shade, under an umbrella or in your bag to spare them from the summer sun.
- When wet, fabrics exposed to friction rub off color quicker, so it you are at the beach, be sure to dry up before you put your clothes on. Or if you’re putting on damp clothing, make sure to avoid rubbing them against other surfaces.
- When washing your garments, follow the instructions on the care label regarding temperature and wash colored items inside out with other dark garments to preserve the color and so that light-colored garments don't get discolored.