Snow-white clothes always look spectacular, but over time the fabric inevitably shows an unpleasant yellow tint. This process seems irreversible, but there are specific physical and chemical causes behind it. Understanding exactly how it breaks down fiber structureThe fiber structure[fiber structure]helps to significantly prolong the life of items and keep them clean.
Organic dirt and sweat
The most common cause of stains is a reaction to proteinsfound in human sweat with deodorant ingredients. When the aluminum salts in antiperspirant mix with organics, a persistent underarm coating forms yellow streakswhich conventional washing often does not remove. Over time, these particles oxidize and become permanently embedded in the threads of cotton or linen.
Hard water and impurities
The quality of tap water directly affects the color of textiles. High content iron or manganese causes white fabric to take on a rusty or grayish undertone. In addition, hardness salts gradually accumulate between the fibers, making clothes rough to the touch and visually “dirty” even after leaving the washing machine drum.
Mistakes when using chemicals
Paradoxically, too much powder or conditioner is often the enemy of whiteness. Excess product is not washed out completely, creating a surface of sticky filmwhich attracts dust and turns yellow when drying or ironing. Also dangerous chlorine bleach: when used frequently, it destroys the protective layer of the fiber, exposing the inner structure of the fabric, which itself has a natural yellowish color.
Improper storage and light
Keeping things in the closet for a long time without access to air provokes gas yellowing. This occurs due to the interaction of textiles with antioxidants found in plastic bags or cardboard boxes. In addition, direct sunlight cause a photochemical reaction that decolorizes the optical brighteners added to the fabric during production, causing the item to return to its natural creamy hue.
Careful attitude to the choice of temperature regime and the use of quality water filters allow you to keep the brightness of white fabrics in your everyday closet for a long time.
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