It is generally not recommended to apply bleach directly to a spot on clothing and then wash the garment in the washing machine. Bleach is a powerful chemical that can cause discoloration and damage to fabrics, and it may also transfer to other clothes during the washing process, resulting in unintended bleach marks on those items.
If you need to treat a stain with bleach, it's best to do so carefully and with caution:
Spot Test: Before applying bleach to the stained area, perform a spot test on a small, inconspicuous part of the fabric to ensure it won't cause any discoloration or damage.
Dilute Bleach: If the fabric can handle bleach, dilute it with water according to the manufacturer's instructions. Typically, a solution of one part bleach to four parts water is suitable for spot treatments.
Use a Q-tip or Cloth: Apply the diluted bleach solution to the stained area using a cotton swab (Q-tip) or a clean cloth. Be careful not to oversaturate the fabric.
Rinse Thoroughly: After treating the stain, rinse the area thoroughly with water to remove any residual bleach.
Wash Separately: If the stain is treated with bleach, wash the garment separately from other clothes. Hand washing the item or using a separate load in the washing machine will help prevent bleach from transferring to other clothes.
It's important to read and follow the care label instructions on the garment to determine if bleach is safe to use. Some fabrics, such as wool, silk, and certain dyes, are not compatible with bleach and should be treated with alternative stain removal methods.
Always exercise caution when using bleach, as it can be harmful if mishandled, and ensure good ventilation when working with this chemical. If you're unsure about using bleach, consider using alternative stain removal methods or seeking professional advice from a dry cleaner.