The 7 Complete Methods to Whiten Yellowed Linen

1. Mix enough solution to cover clothing.
2. Soak white clothes and let them soak for at least eight hours or overnight .
3. Wash with a good detergent and the hottest water recommended.
4. Add half a cup of distilled white vinegar to the rinse water to remove detergent residue.
5. Repeat if necessary with a fresh oxygen-based bleach solution.

This method is safe for polyester, synthetic fabrics, cotton, linen and printed fabrics. Avoid on silk, wool or leather .

Method #2: Laundry Blue

Laundry blue adds a blue pigment to counteract yellowing and make fabrics whiter. This method is called Blueing .

1. Always dilute blue in cold water before adding to the machine.
2. For a standard or HE machine, mix 1/4 teaspoon of blue in a quart of water and add to the wash water.
3. For the rinse cycle, use 1/8 teaspoon in a quart of water.
4. For a front loading machine, dilute in one to two liters of water and add through the dispenser after the machine is filled with water.
   
   
   

Method #3: Commercial Stain Remover

If oxygen-based bleach or laundry blue isn't enough, use a commercial stain remover like Rit Color Remover. Use it in a well-ventilated area .

1. Wash the garment first.
2. Fill a large stainless steel pot with enough water so that the fabric can move freely. Heat until just below boiling (about 200°F).
3. Add the stain remover packet and mix well.
4. Keep the water at a low simmer.
5. Dampen the garment and add it to the solution.
6. Let soak, stirring occasionally, for 10-20 minutes .
7. Rinse with cold water and wash as usual.
   
   
   

Method #4: Chlorine Bleach

Chlorine bleach is effective but can cause yellowing if overused , especially on synthetic fibers.
To bleach cotton:

1. Soak in a solution of 1/4 cup bleach per 5L of water for 5 minutes .
2. Wash in the hottest water recommended with your regular detergent and 1/3 cup bleach. Use the bleach dispenser or add it 5 minutes into the wash cycle .
   
   
   

Method #5: Use the Sun

Dry white laundry outside in the sun. The UV rays will help whiten the clothes .
Using simple and inexpensive products, this solution is the easiest to achieve while using nature while respecting it !
All you need is a few clothes pegs , a clothesline or even some hangers to achieve this!

Method #6: Sodium Percarbonate

Sodium percarbonate improves the performance of the detergent in removing stains.

1. Heat water until boiling , then remove from heat.
2. Add one cup of sodium percarbonate to about 5L of water .
3. Add the white clothes and let soak for at least an hour or overnight .
4. Wash as usual.

Method #7: Distilled White Vinegar

Distilled white vinegar contains acetic acid which removes detergent residue.

1. Fill a sink or basin with hot water.
2. Add one cup of distilled white vinegar to about 5L of water .
3. Add the white clothes and let soak overnight .
4. Wash as usual.
   
   
   

Preventing Yellowing of White Clothes

• Sort Clothes : Wash only whites together.
• Use a Quality Detergent : Choose a detergent with enzymes to remove all dirt.
• Avoid Overdosing : Don't use too much detergent or fabric softener; the high heat of the dryer can set residue.
• Aluminum-Free Deodorants : Use aluminum-free deodorants and let them dry before wearing a white shirt.