Unfortunately, once dark jeans have been washed with bleach, it's challenging to restore them to their original color completely. Bleach is a powerful chemical that can permanently remove or alter the dye in fabric, leading to discoloration or fading.
However, you can try the following methods to minimize the damage and improve the appearance of the jeans:
Vinegar soak: Fill a large basin or bucket with cold water and add one cup of white vinegar. Submerge the jeans in the vinegar solution and let them soak for about an hour. Vinegar can help neutralize the bleach and may improve the color slightly.
Baking soda paste: Make a paste by mixing baking soda and water. Gently rub the paste onto the discolored areas of the jeans. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Baking soda can act as a mild abrasive and may help fade the bleach stains.
Dye the jeans: If the bleach damage is severe and the jeans are considerably lighter in color, you may consider dyeing them with a fabric dye that matches their original shade. Follow the dye manufacturer's instructions and choose a dye suitable for cotton or denim fabrics.
Wash inside out: When washing jeans in the future, turn them inside out before putting them in the washing machine. This can help reduce color loss and protect the outer surface of the fabric.
Avoid bleach in the future: To prevent similar incidents, be cautious and avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals on dark-colored clothing. Stick to detergent specifically designed for dark fabrics and always follow the care instructions on the clothing label.
It's important to note that while these methods may improve the appearance of the jeans to some extent, they may not completely restore the original color. The best approach is to take preventive measures and avoid using bleach on dark jeans or other dark-colored clothing.