Can you bleach things in the washing machine?

[hohohoIdolikeTurkey]

We have a red wine stain on our white table cloth and vanish and biological washing powder didn't work. We also have some towels that could do with whitening a bit. Can I bleach them in the washing machine to reduce the chances of me pouring the stuff all over my clothes?

to get red wine out pour white wine over it.
you can put bleach in the machine but not too much coz the stuff bubbles like mad

My mum in law always added a small cap full of bleach to every white wash - she was the housewife queen (RIP).

Yes. Buy bleach tablets.

But for greying towels, first try washing them at 90° with Vanish for whites. It will be better IMO.

I think bleach tablets might be a french thing anna?

Where would you put the capful of liquid bleach KayM - in the dispenser?

And isn't this one of those things that void the manufacturer's warranty? Mine comes in two versions - the more expensive one has a bleach compartment but mine doesn't..

They are Eau Ecarlate Javel Dose in a small white tub with a green lid - now you can pick some up next time you visit Carrefour

Mum in law would put it in with the washing powder.

my machine comes with a special bleach "cup" you put in the detergant drawer.
my mil puts hers in with the powder

you need to check the machine's instructions - our new one says in no uncertain terms not to bleach things in it, whereas i used to do it in the old one

Thanks everyone. Not completely straightforward. Our machine is long past its warranty but I'd I'd rather not tip it over the edge. I will try the 90deg vanish option 1st -thanks anna.

yes thanks from me too.

Can I just say that if you spill red wine that ANY liquid that dilutes it will work.

The white wine thing is a myth and is used usually because there is red and white wine on the table.

Fizzy water does a much better job (read this very recently in a WI or some household book) plus my Dad is a textile consultant too or was before he retired.

You are just diluting the intensity of the red colour to lessen the chance of staining.

Now that I have bored you all senseless with my trivia knowledge ....

I used to put bleach into the washing machine drawer when you first put the machine on, I would open the drawer wiggle it in and out a few times until the powder had gone and then tip in some kitchen bleach whilst the water is still running into the drawer. Only a small amount. Use it on the tea towel wash.

I did the 95 deg vanish wash and it was amazing. My dd2 finally no longer has to sport the black knee stains that dd1 accrued on her white tights before they were handed down. Thanks v much anna. I'm sure it's more environ friendly than throwing away our grey tea towels and tights and buying new ones too.