How to Dye Using the Washing Machine
Dyeing in a washing machine is the most convenient dyeing method when dyeing large items. However, with so many generations of washing machines in the market, it’s difficult to pin point a precise process as it differs across brands. Accordingly, we only recommend using your washing machine if the item you are dyeing is so large that using your washing machine is the only way to dye the item. If you can dye the item with the Sink or Bucket or Stovetop Method, we always recommend going that route.
Important Notes
Disclaimer: With so many generations of washing machines in the market, it’s difficult to pin point a precise process as it differs across brands. Please follow these instructions as a general guideline and use at your own discretion. Additionally, we only recommend using your washing machine if the item you are dyeing is so large that using your washing machine is the only way to dye the item. If you can dye the item with the Sink or Bucket or Stovetop Method, we always recommend going that route.
Dyeing Synthetics? If you are dyeing synthetic fabric (i.e. fabric containing more than 35% polyester, acrylic or acetate), then you cannot use this method. Due to the complexity of dyeing synthetics, you must use the stovetop method to maintain an almost boiling temperature for the duration of your dyeing.
A note about dye and washing machines: If you have never used dye in a washing machine, we get why you would be nervous! Who wants a purple washing machine? Well, maybe us. Nonetheless, we can promise you Rit won’t permanently stain any metal component on your machine. Rit has been used in washing machines for decades, dating back to the time when the electric washing machine was invented in the 1950s. We coined the phrase “Push Button Color!” in the early 60s to promote the marriage between Rit and washing machines. We even launched liquid dye just so that it would be easier to use Rit in your machine. With that much history, you can feel confident that your washing machine will stay dye free for decades to come.
With the growing popularity of front loading washing machines, we have found that dye may stain the plastic parts around the machine if it is not cleaned up right away; so it’s important to clean up immediately after dyeing, which we detail how below.
ADDITIONAL TIPS:
- We do not recommend using a front loading washing machine to dye extra large items or multiple items.
- For top loaders, add more hot water but be careful of overfilling.
- For front loader, add hot water into the tray.
- When the wash cycle ends, take it out immediately.
