Keeping Whiter White: How to Avoid Fabric Yellowing?
Fabric yellowing refers to the discoloration or change in color of fabrics, usually resulting in a yellow or dingy appearance. Fabric yellowing can be a frustrating problem, but with proper care and maintenance, you can minimize and even reverse its effects. Understanding the causes and adopting preventive measures will help keep your fabrics looking fresh and bright.
CAUSES OF FABRIC YELLOWING
- Oxidation
Oxidation occurs when fabric fibers are exposed to oxygen over time, leading to discoloration. This can be accelerated by heat and light exposure, causing the fabric to turn yellow.
- Residual Soap and Detergent
Excessive detergent or soap residues can cause fabrics to yellow over time, especially when combined with heat from ironing or drying.
- Optical Brighteners
Optical brighteners, also known as fluorescent whitening agents (FWAs), are chemicals added to laundry detergents and fabric softeners to make fabrics appear brighter and whiter. Prolonged use of optical brighteners can contribute to fabric yellowing over time. The chemicals may accumulate on the fabric surface, leading to a yellowish tint, especially in synthetic or white fabrics.
However, over time, prolonged exposure to UV light, unfavourable conditions like excessive heat and humidity, over usage of OBA beyond saturation limit can contribute to yellowing or fading, especially on fabrics with optical brighteners. This is because UV exposure can cause oxidation, leading to yellowing of the underlying fabric.
If optical brighteners build up on fabrics, they may attract more dirt and oils, leading to dullness and eventual yellowing. This buildup can also affect the texture and breathability of the fabric.
- Sunlight and UV Exposure
Prolonged exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause fabrics to yellow, especially those made from natural fibers like cotton and linen.
- Improper Storage
Storing fabrics in plastic bags or other non-breathable materials can lead to yellowing due to a lack of ventilation and the buildup of moisture or fumes.
- Body Oils and Sweat
Body oils and sweat can cause fabric yellowing, particularly in clothing, bedding and undergarments that is in direct contact with the skin. This yellowing happens due to the organic compounds and salts in sweat, as well as the natural oils produced by the skin.
- Heat Damage
Yellowing of textiles due to heat is a common issue that can occur during laundering, drying, ironing, or other processes involving high temperatures. When fabrics are exposed to excessive heat, they can undergo chemical changes that lead to yellowing or discoloration. The main causes are Heat-Induced Oxidation, Burning or Scorching, Decomposition of Fabric Fibers, Residue Buildup and Improper Drying Techniques.
- Chlorine Bleach
Chlorine is highly reactive, and excessive or improper use can cause oxidation, leading to yellowing. This is particularly common with delicate or synthetic fabrics that are more susceptible to damage from chlorine. It can also interact with iron in water, leading to discoloration.
- Iron and Mineral Deposits
Iron and other minerals in water can cause fabrics to yellow, particularly when combined with chlorine bleach or heat from dryers and irons.
- Aging and Breakdown of Fibers
As fabrics age, their fibers can break down, leading to yellowing and discoloration. This is common with vintage or antique textiles.
- Residual Alkali
Residual alkali refers to the leftover alkaline substances on fabrics after washing. Alkalies, such as sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide, are commonly used in detergents, soaps, and other cleaning products to break down dirt and grime. Residual alkali on fabrics can interact with other substances, such as mineral deposits from hard water or components in fabric softeners. These interactions can lead to discoloration and a yellowish tint. Alkalies can accelerate the oxidation process in fabrics, causing them to turn yellow over time. Oxidation occurs when oxygen in the air reacts with fibers, especially in the presence of heat or light.
High heat from dryers or irons can trigger chemical reactions with residual alkali, leading to yellowing or scorching on the fabric's surface.
Residual alkali can leave a buildup on fabric fibers, attracting dirt and dust. This accumulation can give fabrics a dingy or yellow appearance
- Environmental Contaminants
Dust, smoke, and pollutants in the air can cause fabrics to yellow over time, particularly if stored in less-than-ideal conditions.
PREVENTING FABRIC YELLOWING:
- Use Proper Detergents and right dosage: Choose detergents without optical brighteners or excessive chemical additives to minimize residue buildup. Use Palley Conz laundry Detergent that is gentle, residue buildup, formulated with mineral clay that protects garments from yellowing.
- Choose Low Temperature washing.
- Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure: Dry clothes indoors or in shaded areas to prevent photo-oxidation.
- Ensure thorough rinsing to remove all soap residue.
- Wash Regularly: Regular washing helps remove body oils, sweat, and other contaminants that contribute to yellowing.
- Use Bleach Carefully: Use non-chlorine bleach alternatives like Palley OXY Bleach. If you must use chlorine bleach, ensure it's properly diluted and used only on bleach-safe fabrics. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging fabrics and causing yellowing.
- Proper Storage: Store fabrics in cool, dry, and well-ventilated areas. Use protective covers or bags to prevent exposure to dust and pollution.
- Use a water softener or an iron filter to reduce mineral content in water.
- Regularly clean washing machines and dryers to remove mineral deposits.
- Avoid Heat Damage: Use appropriate heat settings when ironing or drying, and avoid over-drying.
