Laundry Bluing

Laundry Bluing

Laundry bluing, also known as clothes blue or washing blue, is a substance that has been used for centuries to improve the appearance of white fabrics. It is a blue dye that is added to the wash water to counteract the yellowing of white fabrics over time, making them look brighter and whiter. Laundry bluing is typically made from a mixture of blue dyes, such as Prussian blue or ultramarine blue, and a carrier, such as sodium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate. The mixture is then dissolved in water and added to the wash water during the rinse cycle. The use of laundry bluing dates back to the 18th century when it was first used in England to improve the appearance of white fabrics. At that time, white fabrics were often made from natural fibers such as cotton or linen, which tended to yellow over time due to exposure to sunlight and other environmental factors. Laundry bluing helped to counteract this yellowing, making the fabrics look cleaner and brighter. Today, laundry bluing is still used in many parts of the world, particularly in areas where hard water is common. Hard water can cause white fabrics to become dingy and gray over time, and laundry bluing can help to counteract this effect. It is also used by people who prefer the look of bright, white fabrics, such as those used in traditional or formal settings. Overall, laundry bluing is a simple and effective way to improve the appearance of white fabrics. While it may not be as commonly used today as it once was, it remains a popular choice for those who want to keep their white fabrics looking their best.

Laundry bluing, clothes blue, washing blue, white fabrics, yellowing

— Matthew Thompson

CITATION : "Matthew Thompson. 'Laundry Bluing.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=285957 (Accessed on July 09, 2025)"