A bluing agent is used for restoring the whiteness of clothes and making them extra bright. Do you want to know the right way to use a bluing agent? Read on for more….
Bluing agents are known by many names, like washing blue and laundry blue. It is being used since the Victorian era. Earlier, a bag containing the agent, was dipped in water, during the final rinse cycle of the laundry. With modern technology and commercial manufacturing processes, the quality of bluing agents is much better now than before. The following FAQs will answer all the queries you have regarding this product..
Frequently Asked Questions about Bluing Agents
What is a bluing agent?
It is a product used in most households to enhance the appearance of clothes, especially white ones. It consists of a blue color pigment, which can be either Prussian blue or ultramarine. Earlier, bluing agents were available in solid powder form, but now they are available as a liquid. This liquid is stored in bottles which are convenient to use, as their small nozzles prevent the spilling of excess liquid.
How does it work?
After a while, white clothes turn slightly yellow or gray. This discoloration can be distinctly seen at the collar and the underarms of the shirt. By adding a little amount of the agent white clothes seem whiter. This is because the slight color of blue offsets the yellowish stains, making them seem less prominent. The agent by itself does not remove the stain, it just makes it less visible. Sometimes bluing agents are added to swimming pool water, to make the pool visually more appealing.
How to use it?
The best way to use it is to follow the instructions given on the label. Wash your clothing, as you would normally in the washing machine. Then add a few drops of the agent, in the final rinse cycle. This will make your whites brighter and remove the yellow tinge. If you prefer hand washes, soak your clothes in normal detergent. Rinse your clothes thoroughly. Again soak your clothes in water and add a few drops of bluing agent, followed by thorough rinsing.
What is the right amount of the agent?
4 – 5 drops of the agent for a quart of water is the appropriate amount. Be careful with the amount of bluing agent you use, because overuse can cause the dyeing of your whites to a light blue.
Is It safe for delicate clothes?
Yes, bluing for laundry, is safe on delicate clothes. You can use bluing agent on different fabrics like shirts, towels, table cloths, undergarments, etc.
Which are the best bluing agents?
There are many commercial agents for laundry available in liquid and solid forms. Some of these are even environment-friendly products. The liquid ones are more suitable for laundry, as they easily dissolve in water and permeate the laundry thoroughly. Some popular bluing agents are Mrs. Stewart, Bluette, and Reckitt’s blue.
Is combining cluing agent with other products safe?
It is not advisable to combine it with other products as this might lead to undesirable coloration of the laundry. Always use it in the last rinse cycle of the wash load. There are detergents that contain bluing agents. So, instead of buying it separately, you can directly use such detergents. However, using it separately in the last rinse cycle gives a better result.
Are bluing agents expensive?
They are very affordable. You can buy them for laundry for around USD 12. They are also long-lasting, as you don’t need to add the agent for every wash load.
Now that you are equipped with all the information about these cleaning products, use it to restore the whiteness of your apparels, and to prevent the discoloration of your new white clothes.