Does the Dryer Fade Colored Shirts?

Read the Label

Most shirts have labels that give you drying instructions. If you follow the care instructions on the label, you're less likely to damage and fade you shirt. If you're shirt doesn't have a label, check the label of a shirt made from a similar fabric in a similar color. Never put shirts in the dryer that instruct you to lay flat to dry, or hang dry. Even if your shirt survives its first few trips through the dryer, eventually it will begin to fade and show signs of fabric damage. Most people neglect their shirt's washing and drying instructions, but doing so can dramatically decrease the lifespan of the garment.

Dry Inside-Out

Good Housekeeping's website recommends that you turn your shirt inside out both before you wash it and before you place it in the dryer. Turning your shirts inside out protects the outside of the fabric from exposure to high heat and from damage caused by friction. Tumbling and rubbing together causes fibers to split, and fabrics to pull and pill. The more damage your fabrics have, the more faded they appear. Turning your shirts inside out also will protect logos, decals, embroidery and other decorative details from fading.

Get the Temperature Right

Heat is the enemy of bright colors. No matter what type of fabric from which your shirt is made, both washing your clothes in hot water and drying them in high heat causes fading and fabric wear and tear. Wash dark-colored shirts with other dark-colored clothing in cold water. Dry your shirts using the heat settings indicated on the label or use the lowest amount of heat possible to still dry your clothes in a reasonable amount of time. Remove your shirts before they're completely dry, if possible, and allow them to air dry the rest of the way.

Use Gentle Cleansers

Harsh laundry soaps, stain removers and fabric softeners can react with dyes in your shirts and fade colors. Not only can a harsh cleansers strip dies from your fabrics, but they also can damage the fabric, which causes clothing to look faded and dull. Use laundry detergent and fabric softener specifically designed to prevent fading on bright or dark colored clothing. Avoid using too much laundry detergent or too little water in your rinse cycle to prevent detergent residue from sticking to your clothes and causing fading and damage.