There are several reasons why a white cloth might turn orange after being washed in a washing machine. Some possible explanations include:
Dye transfer from other clothes: If you washed the white cloth with colored or dark clothing, there might have been dye transfer. Some dyes are particularly potent and can stain white fabrics, giving them an orange or yellowish tint.
Rust or mineral deposits in the water: If your water supply contains iron or other minerals, it can cause discoloration in fabrics, especially whites. These minerals can react with the fabric or the detergent, leading to orange stains.
Reaction with bleach: If you used bleach on the white cloth or in a previous load of laundry, it's possible that the bleach reacted with some other substances (e.g., residues of other cleaning products), leading to discoloration.
Fabric or detergent interaction: Certain fabrics may not be compatible with specific detergents, causing them to change color. Also, some detergents contain optical brighteners that can react with fabrics and create a yellowish hue.
Stain or residue on the machine: Sometimes, a stain or residue left in the washing machine drum from a previous load can transfer to the next load, causing discoloration.
Quality of the fabric: In some cases, poor-quality fabrics or those that have been previously treated with chemicals might react to the washing process and change color.
To prevent such issues in the future:
- Always separate white clothing from colored or dark items to avoid dye transfer.
- Consider using a water softener if your water supply has a high mineral content.
- Check that there are no stains or residues in the washing machine before starting a new load.
- Follow the care instructions on the clothing label and use appropriate detergents.
- If using bleach, make sure it's suitable for the fabric and dilute it properly.
If your white cloth has already turned orange, it might be challenging to reverse the discoloration. However, you can try soaking the garment in a mixture of water and white vinegar, then wash it separately using a color-safe bleach or a detergent specifically designed for stain removal. If the discoloration persists, it's best to consult a professional cleaner for advice or consider the cloth as permanently stained.