How to Use Rit Liquid Dye

Rit dye comes in liquid and powder form.

Rit Dye For Large Items

1. Fill your washing machine with enough hot water that the fabric will be able to move freely in the water. Pre-dissolve the Rit dye in two cups of hot water. Use one bottle of liquid Rit dye for medium-sized items like jeans, area rugs, etc. Use one and a half bottles of liquid Rit dye for denser clothing (denim jackets, bed spreads, etc.). Use two bottles of liquid rit dye for larger items (double sheets, thick bed throws, etc.). Pour the pre-dissolved Rit dye into the washing machine.



2. Crumple the fabric and wet it in plain hot water. Open the fabric and put it into the washing machine. Set the machine to run an extended wash cycle. The fabric needs to be in the water for 30 minutes before your washing machine starts the rinsing process.



3. Rinse the item in cold water until the water runs clear. If you used a dark dye color, add a mild detergent to the water to completely rinse out the residual Rit dye.



4. Allow the item to air dry or run it through the dryer. Clean the washing machine by setting the washing machine on the hottest water setting. Pour in detergent and one cup of bleach. Allow your washing machine to complete a full wash cycle. Rubber components might remain colored but will not stain clothing.

Rit Dye for Small Items

1. Pour hot water into a bucket or sink. Pour enough water into the sink or bucket that the item can move around freely in the water. Use half of a bottle of liquid Rit dye and three gallons of hot water for each pound of fabric. Pre-dissolve the liquid Rit dye in two cups of hot water. Add the dissolved solution into the Rit dye bath.



2. Wet the fabric in hot water. Open the fabric and lower the item into the Rit dye bath. Use a large spoon to stir the item in the hot Rit dye solution. Vigorously stir the item for ten to 30 minutes.



3. Rinse the item in warm water. Gradually lower the temperature of the water and rinse the fabric in cold water. Use a mild detergent to rinse out any residual Rit dye. Rinse, and allow the item to air dry or use your home dryer.

Tip

Rit dye works best on natural fabrics like wool, cotton, and linen. Fabric blends that are at least 60% cotton will readily take the color of Rit dye. If you doubt whether your fabric will absorb the Rit dye, do a patch test to check the Rit dye's efficacy with that particular fabric/material.

Warning

Do not use Rit dye around fiberglass tubs and sinks, as the dye will stain fiberglass.

Fabrics with a high polyester content will not dye.

Materials labeled as "water repellent" will not readily take the color of Rit dye.