Tips for Prewashing Batik Fabric To Prevent Bleeding

One of the most popular quilting fabrics is batik. Batik fabric is special because designers use wax during the dyeing process to make unique designs that quilters can’t find anywhere else. However, batik fabrics often bleed and may still have stuck-on wax when you wash them. To remove the wax and prevent bleeding, you can prewash batik fabric. Keep reading to get some helpful tips for the prewashing process.

Use Cold Water

Some people like to wash fabric in hot or warm water the first time, concerned about germs the fabric may have picked up in the store or during shipment. Furthermore, hot or warm water may sound like a good idea for getting rid of any leftover wax on batik.

However, you should use cold water when prewashing batiks. Cold water best prevents the dye from bleeding and the fabric itself from shrinking. Lukewarm water is also fairly safe to use, but cold water provides the best results.

Try an Anti-Bleeding Hack

There are some hacks you can try if you want to use more than just cold water to prevent bleeding during your prewash. Some people suggest soaking the fabric in a white vinegar and water solution for 30 minutes before washing it in lukewarm water.

Others have found that dishwashing liquids such as Palmolive can help prevent bleeding. All you do is prepare a Palmolive bath in your sink. Then, you soak and rinse the fabric several times before washing it in the machine.

Lastly, more modern anti-bleeding products that provide a better guarantee are Synthrapol and Retayne, which you can add to your washing machine.

Dry Carefully

You might think once the washing process is over, your batik fabric is in the clear. However, you need to dry your fabric as carefully as you washed it to prevent residual dye or wax from coming off while still damp.

To safely dry batik, always tumble dry it on a low temperature setting and remove it before it’s completely done. Then, hang it up to finish drying.

If you want to prevent bleeding in your batik fabrics, you should follow these tips for prewashing and drying your fabric. Doing so will help your batiks look great throughout the quilting process.

Quilters can find batik fabric in Canada through Lindley General Store, where we’re proud to supply all your quilting needs. We’re always adding new fabric to our store, so you can find the perfect fabric for your next project.