If you have accidentally used floor detergent on your clothes instead of laundry detergent, it's important to take immediate steps to minimize any potential damage to your garments. Here's what you can do:
Remove the detergent: If the clothes are still wet or damp, try to rinse them as quickly as possible to remove the floor detergent. You can rinse them under running water or soak them in a basin or sink filled with clean water. Gently agitate the clothes to help dislodge the detergent.
Dilute the detergent: If the clothes have already dried, you can still attempt to salvage them by diluting the detergent. Fill a basin or sink with clean water and add the clothes. Swish them around gently to dilute and remove as much of the floor detergent as possible.
Rinse thoroughly: After removing the detergent or diluting it, rinse the clothes thoroughly with clean water. Ensure that all traces of the floor detergent are removed. You may need to rinse the clothes multiple times to achieve this.
Launder with proper detergent: Once you have rinsed the clothes thoroughly, wash them again using the appropriate laundry detergent. Follow the care instructions on the garment's label and use the recommended water temperature and washing cycle.
Inspect for damage: After washing, inspect the clothes for any signs of damage or discoloration. Check for fading, bleeding, or changes in texture. If the clothes appear to be damaged, you may need to consider alternative options such as dyeing the garment or repurposing it.
It's worth noting that the outcome may vary depending on factors such as the type of fabric, the concentration of the floor detergent, and the duration of exposure. Some fabrics may be more resilient to accidental exposure to floor detergent, while others may be more sensitive and prone to damage.
In the future, always double-check the product labels and use the appropriate laundry detergent specifically designed for washing clothes to avoid any potential mishaps.