Separating laundry by color before machine drying is a common practice based on the potential for dye transfer from darker or brightly colored fabrics to lighter ones, particularly whites. This risk is especially pronounced with new, unwashed garments and items susceptible to color bleeding. A red sock inadvertently included with a load of white towels could lead to a uniformly pink result.
Preventing unwanted dye transfer preserves the original color integrity of garments and linens, extending their lifespan and maintaining their aesthetic appeal. Historically, dyes were less stable, making color separation a necessity. While modern dye formulations are generally more colorfast, the risk, though reduced, persists. This concern is magnified with delicate fabrics and certain dye types. Correctly sorting laundry helps avoid the cost and inconvenience of replacing damaged items.
