Washing Machine

GETTING STARTED

The settings and options of various front-load washing machines vary among manufaturers. Even though there are slight differences among differing manufacturer's wash settings, they are common in that they all introduce water to the tumbler once the garment is placed inside. They allow a time period to introduce detergent (or dye in this case), and they all finish with a spin cycle.

It is important to use the washer's hottest water setting. Additionally, a wash cycle of at least 30 minutes is recommended to obtain a satisfactory dyeing.

Because front-load washers have built-in heaters to maintain the washer's temperature and the water to fabric ratio is relatively high as compared to top-load machines, deep rich colors can be achieved using Rit dyes.

DYEING WITH RIT DYE

Follow the package or label instructions as you normally would. There are two exceptions to the package's instructions when using a front-load washer. Once, it will be necessary to place the wet fabric into the washer before beginning the dye cycle. Second, when dyeing with Rit powder or liquid dye in a front-load machine, it is necessary to pre-dissolve the dye into four cups of very hot tap water. Once dissolved, pour the dye solution into the washer's dispenser at the appropriate time you would add detergent. After the dye solution has entered the washer, it will be necessary to flush the dispenser with another four cups of very hot tap water.

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.

ADDING SALT

If salt is desired when dyeing a cellulose material, the salt should be pre-dissolved into four cups of very hot tap water, added to the dispenser, and thoroughly flushed with another four cups of very hot tap water after the dyeing has proceeded for about 10 minutes.

IMPORTANT

• One package or one-half bottle dyes 1lb. dry weight or about 3 yards of medium fabric to a medium color. Never use more than a total of 4 packages or 2 bottles of Rit Dye. Depending on your washer's brand, the dyeing may be slightly darker than the color represented on the package or bottle.
• For most washable fabrics. Not recommended for 100% polyester, 100% acrylic, 100% acetate or fabrics with special finishes, rubber backing, washable only in cold water or labeled Dry Clean Only.
• Use Rit Color Remover before dyeing fabric to a lighter or different color.

CLEAN UP

Clean washing machine immediately after dyeing has completed using the hottest water setting. Since the machine automatically weighs fabric to determine the water level, be certain to place 3-4 old towels into the washer along with detergent and 1 to 2 cups chlorine bleach. Wipe spills with chlorine bleach solution. Plastic or rubber parts may be tinted but will not stain laundry.

RIT FABRIC TREATMENTS

All Rit fabric treatment products may be used in a front-load washer. Like Rit dyes, it is important to pre-dissolve the Rit fabric treatment into four cups of very hot tap water and thoroughly flush the dispenser with another four cups of very hot tap water.

IMPORTANT

When pre-dissolving Rit Fabric Treatment, AVOID BREATHING DUST AND USE WITH ADEQUATE VENTILATION.

• Be sure to follow manufacturer's fabric care labels when washing, drying, and pressing.
• Wear rubber gloves.