Does Napisan Remove Colour Run?

In our day-to-day lives, there are accidents that we just can’t avoid. One of the frustrating situations is a colour run, which occurs when the dye of a coloured garment bleeds into others during washing. 

To remove colour runs, you may have heard that Napisan, a popular laundry sanitiser, can help remove them. After all, it’s known for its ability to remove tough stains and disinfect clothes. 

Yes, Napisan can help remove colour runs, but only on white clothing. This is because it contains ingredients that may bleach coloured fabrics. Of course, there are alternatives, such as white vinegar, and shop-bought products that are specifically made to remove dye stains. 

Let’s learn how to remove accidental dye stains using Napisan, along with other tips, in this article!

Using Napisan To Remove Colour Runs On White Clothes

Napisan is well-known for its ability to brighten fabrics and remove stubborn stains. It contains active ingredients like oxygen-based bleaching agents, which work by breaking down and lifting stains from the fabric.

However, as we mentioned earlier, Napisan is best used on white clothes, as it can remove the dye on your coloured garments. If you really want to use it on your coloured fabrics, make sure to patch test to avoid damage. 

Also, since Napisan is not specifically made for removing colour runs, it will not be as effective as other products that are manufactured to target this issue. Use the product accordingly. 

Before using Napisan, remember the following:

• Always check the garment’s care label before using Napisan, as some fabrics may be too delicate for this product. Never use it on delicate fabrics such as silk and lace. 
• Do a spot test on a hidden area of the fabric to ensure that Napisan won’t damage your garment.
• Colour runs are easier to remove when treated immediately. Older stains may be more challenging to eliminate, and will require stronger products. 

Step-By-Step Guide To Using Napisan For Colour Run Removal

Just discovered the horror of a colour run after a wash cycle? 

Here’s what to do to fix the issue: 

1. Separate the garment(s) that have suffered the colour run from other laundry to prevent further spreading of the unwanted dye.
2. Before applying Napisan to the entire garment, test it on a small, inconspicuous area. Wait a few minutes to ensure there is no adverse reaction, such as colour loss or damage to the fabric.
3. Prepare a basin or a bucket, then dissolve Napisan in warm water according to the package instructions. Ensure the solution is well mixed and the Napisan is fully dissolved.
4. Submerge the affected garment completely in the Napisan solution. Make sure every part of the garment that has the colour run is soaked thoroughly.
5. Let the garment soak in the solution for the recommended time stated on the Napisan package. This can vary, but soaking for at least 1-2 hours is common. For severe colour runs, you may need to soak it longer, potentially overnight.
6. After soaking, check the garment to see if the colour run has been removed. If the stain persists, you may need to repeat the soaking process.
7. Once the colour run has been successfully removed, rinse the garment thoroughly under cold water to remove all traces of Napisan.
8. Wash the garment as you would normally, according to its care label instructions, to remove any remaining Napisan and loosened dye. If you’re using the washing machine, use a cold temperature. 
9. Dry the garment according to its care label. If possible, air dry as tumble drying may set hidden stains. 
10. Once dry, check the garment again to ensure that the colour run is completely gone and that the fabric has not been damaged in the process.

Other Ways To Treat Colour Runs

If Napisan didn’t work or if you have to deal with coloured garments, it’s not the end of the world.

There are other products you can try, such as the following:

White Vinegar

Due to its acidic nature, white vinegar can help fix dyes and remove colour runs. 

All you need to do is fill a bucket with cold water and add 1 cup of white vinegar. Submerge the affected garment and let it soak for 15 to 30 minutes. 

After soaking, rinse the garment thoroughly in cold water and then wash it as usual. Repeat if necessary.

Bicarbonate Of Soda

Bicarbonate of soda is known for its cleaning properties for a reason. In fact, it’s also popular for lifting unwanted stains on fabrics, mainly due to its alkali nature.

Just make a paste of bicarbonate of soda and water, and apply it directly to the colour run stains. Let it sit for at least an hour, or overnight for stubborn stains. Rinse the garment using cold water and wash it as normal. Repeat if necessary. 

Shop-Bought Colour Run Removers

When dealing with stubborn colour runs, your best bet would be to use specially formulated colour run removers, such as those that are formulated with oxygen bleach. These products are often safe for both light and dark-coloured garments. 

Just remember to follow the instructions on the packaging. Not all removers work the same, and you may need to use more or less product to remove colour runs for good. 

How To Prevent Colour Runs

As always, preventing colour runs is often easier and less stressful than treating them. Before we end this article, it’s not like us to not give you bonus information to ensure that your laundry days are more pleasant. 

Here are some tips to avoid colour runs in your laundry:

• Always separate whites from coloured garments. Sort clothes not just by colour, but also by fabric type and washing temperature.
• Use colour catcher sheets. These sheets trap excess dye during the wash cycle, preventing colour runs. They are especially useful when you have to mix colours.
• Follow washing instructions on clothing labels to ensure you’re using the right temperature and wash cycle.
• Wash new clothes separately, as they often release excess dye in the first few washes.
• Use cold water if possible, as it will reduce the possibility of colour bleeds. 

And there you have it! How’s your experience with using Napisan to treat colour runs? Feel free to share it below. 

SEE ALSO: What Temperature Do Colours Run At? (the full guide)