How to ‘fix’ non colour fast clothing so it doesn’t run in the wash?

[Aridane]

I have some glorious cheap cotton and linen dresses (from market stalls) where the colour continues to run. Despite having been washed multiple times. Meaning they still have to be washed separately.

Can anyone recommend anything to stop the colour running?

I looked online and it seemed to be indicated that if the colour wasn't fixed’ during the manufacturing process, it couldn’t be fixed afterward (I probably Missumarise - but that seems to be the gist).

Thanks!

I've always tried cold water, white vinegar and/or salt - soaking before washing. The colour still runs a bit, but it might be less than before.

Or also using colour catchers to protect the rest of the wash!

I think you can buy colour "fixers" that you can soak the clothes in? However you have to know what type of dye is used.. it might be that a poor quality dye was used or the wrong dye for that fabric.

The best thing to do is wash with similar colours on the coolest setting you can and avoid drying in sunlight. That'll at least stop your lovely dresses fading.

Thanks, all.

I looked at the commercial fixers but they’re for use when doing the dyeing yourself

Local dry cleaners didn’t have anything to suggest or for sale

I’ll try the vinegar and salt as I have those to hand