Which fabrics should never be bleached?

 

Delicate Fabrics

 

• Silk: Bleach can break down the protein structure of silk, causing severe discoloration and weakening of the fibers.
• Wool: Bleach damages the natural scales on wool fibers, resulting in shrinkage, reduced strength, and a rough texture.
• Cashmere: Exposure to bleach can cause cashmere to lose its softness and degrade, leading to permanent damage.

 

Blended & Synthetic Fabrics

 

• Acrylic: Bleach may react with acrylic fibers, causing yellowing and deterioration of the textile's overall quality.
• Spandex / Lycra: These stretchy fabrics can lose their elasticity and be permanently damaged when exposed to harsh bleach chemicals.
• Polyester Blends: Bleach can adversely affect the synthetic components, leading to weakening of the blend and uneven color fading.

 

Protected or Treated Fabrics

 

• Fabrics with Special Coatings: Bleach can strip away water-repellant or stain-resistant treatments, significantly reducing the fabric's performance.
• Color-Treated Fabrics: Textiles that have been dyed may react unpredictably to bleach, leading to irreversible color loss or patchy fading.

 

General Guidelines and Considerations

 

• Always Check the Care Label: Manufacturer instructions are crucial. If the label warns against bleach, it should be strictly avoided.
• Test on a Hidden Area First: Even for bleach-safe fabrics, test a small, inconspicuous section to ensure no adverse reaction occurs.
• Prefer Gentle Alternatives: Consider using oxygen-based bleaches, which are generally milder, though caution is still advised.