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How to Get Dye Transfer Stains Out

Loose dye from another garment — detergent plus color-safe oxygen bleach.

Quick answer

Fresh Dye Transfer on Cotton

Before you startAlways test any treatment in an inconspicuous area first, and check the garment's care label before you begin.
  1. Rub liquid detergent into the stain and rinse.
  2. Soak in a dilute solution of color-safe oxygen bleach.
  3. Launder in the warmest water safe for the fabric.

Don’t do this

  • Do not use chlorine bleach unless the care label allows it; test first.

Sources: Iowa State University Extension (AnswerLine); The Spruce

For dried stains or other materials, use the lookup tool below.

Look up Dye Transfer on your material

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Dye Transfer on specific materials

Dye Transfer on CottonFresh & dried steps Dye Transfer on LinenFresh & dried steps Dye Transfer on PolyesterFresh & dried steps Dye Transfer on NylonFresh & dried steps Dye Transfer on SilkFresh & dried steps Dye Transfer on WoolFresh & dried steps Dye Transfer on DenimFresh & dried steps Dye Transfer on LeatherFresh & dried steps Dye Transfer on SuedeFresh & dried steps Dye Transfer on Upholstery fabricFresh & dried steps Dye Transfer on Carpet/rugFresh & dried steps Dye Transfer on WoodFresh & dried steps Dye Transfer on Stainless steelFresh & dried steps Dye Transfer on Stone/marbleFresh & dried steps Dye Transfer on Plastic/laminateFresh & dried steps

Frequently asked questions

How does dye transfer happen?

Usually a new or unstable garment bleeding in the wash. Separate colors and check care labels to prevent it.

Will it come out?

Fresh transfer often lifts with detergent and a color-safe oxygen bleach soak. Heat-set transfer is much harder.

Safety rules for every treatment
  • Test every treatment in an inconspicuous area first — some treatments can fade dyes or damage finishes.
  • Blot a wet stain; never rub it. Rubbing pushes the stain deeper into fibers.
  • Check the garment's care label and follow it — skip any step the label prohibits.
  • Never put the item in the dryer until the stain is completely gone; heat sets most stains.
  • Never mix ammonia with chlorine bleach — the fumes are toxic and dangerous.
  • Never use chlorine bleach on rust — it can intensify the stain.
  • Rubbing alcohol is flammable and can fade some dyes; spot-test first and ventilate the area.
  • Acetone dissolves acetate, triacetate, and modacrylic fabrics — check the fabric label first.
  • Use cold water first on blood and other protein stains; hot water sets them.
  • When in doubt — a valuable, vintage, or delicate item — take it to a professional cleaner instead.

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