Expert: Jan Hayner - 1/24/2008

Question
Help!  I absentmindedly threw in my black non-colorfast sweater in with my khaki slacks load in the washer--and you can already guess the results: charcoal-colored pants!  I usually wash my slacks with the "hand-wash" mode and use the brand CHEER with color guard, but unfortunately my detergent did not come through for me this time.  

Is it hopeless?  Should I just throw out my slacks?  Or is there a way to restore them to what they used to be?  I appreciate any help you can give.

Answer
Hi Homemaker Wannabe;
That is a mess isn't it? I did that more than once and had some real problems, trying to get the color out with out ruining the item.

There are tons of things on the market that are 'supposed' to do the trick, I have tried most of them and they don't work. Some say that if the item hasn't been dried in a dryer and the color isn't set, that you can add their product and rewash as usual! Good Luck!!

The one product that I have had some good results with is Oxy-Clean. This is a dry bleach that you can use on colored clothing, the only problem, is that depending on the material etc. it can do more harm than good. I have had things look just like new when I was finished and I have had things that are now in my rag bag.

I look at it this way, If I didn't try anything it would go in the garbage, if I do try something and it doesn't work out, it can still go in the garbage. BUT, if it works, I just saved a piece of clothing.

Sorry that I couldn't be more help, but I don't want you spending money on a lot of things that basically is a waste of money.

I hope this helped you a little.
Jan Hayner