Maintaining the color of your clothes: it sounds so simple, but is a job in itself. Did you know that maintaining the color of your clothes already starts with the first wash of your new item? Below are some handy tips.

• Always wash new items separately
  It is not necessary to wash clothes first before wearing your new item. Some people do this because their skin can react more sensitively to the 'new' fabric. You can also do it for hygienic reasons. We do advise to always wash underwear and bedding first. When the time comes, we advise you to always wash your new item separately. The item may release color or absorb colors from other items of clothing more easily. It is best to soak dark clothing in cold water with natural vinegar. The dark colors will adhere better to the fabric and this will prevent possible bleeding of colors.
  
• Wash inside out
  To preserve colors, washing colored clothing inside out is essential. So turn that red or green top inside out before you throw it in the washing machine. Also make sure that you close your zippers and buttons properly. That way, there is less chance of damage to the fabric and/or color.
  
  
• Use the right detergent
  The more, the better, you might think. That is certainly not the case when it comes to adding detergent to your wash. A large amount of detergent provides a concentrated amount of soap solution. Something that is counterproductive when it comes to color retention. Also make sure you use the right detergent for the right wash. A white wash means a detergent for whites, a colored wash means a detergent for colored washes and a black wash means a detergent for black washes. Try to avoid detergents with bleaching agents if you want to preserve the colors of your clothes.
  
• Avoid the dryer
  The tumble dryer: the invention of the 19th century! Ideal for drying bedding or towels quickly. On the other hand, the dryer also provides a short 'heat' boost which can still be harmful to the colour of textiles. In general, it is important to be careful with textiles and the dryer, but this is especially important for coloured clothing.
  
• Want to leave the laundry hanging in the sun?
  Hmm.. you smell the scent of freshly cut grass and the first rays of sunshine come through the clouds. Time to let the laundry dry outside again! After a day full of sun, you take the clothes off the rack and discover a difference in color. Just like us humans, clothes cannot be exposed to sunlight for too long to prevent discoloration. Try to let your clothes dry in a shady environment in warmer weather.
• A little salt or vinegar to preserve the color
  Maybe you already know this fact: salt and vinegar help to retain the color of clothing! 150 grams of salt can fix the color in the clothing during a wash. Adding 100 ml of vinegar to your wash can also help to retain the color: it ensures that the color adheres to the item. Poespas knows the solution!