Marking on children’s clothing from the washing machine

Trying to keep children’s clothing clean is always a problem, and it is disappointing to find stray pink marks at the end of the washing cycle.  They are unsightly but you will be pleased to know these can generally be removed, and it is not caused by a problem with your washing machine.

Cause

Most of these pink marks are caused when you are giving your child medicines for teething or colic, for instance.  These medicines can contain an ingredient called phenolphthalein which, although colourless, will turn pink once it is mixed with a washing detergent.

In most cases you will not have seen any marks on the bibs or clothes so will not be aware what is the cause of the pink marks.  

If you have been giving your young child any of these medicines, it would be a good idea to rinse any items in cold water before you load them into you washing machine.  If you work on the assumption that some of these medicines have either been dripped onto the clothes or, more likely, dribbled on the clothes, rinse them in cold water first.

To remove marks

Continued washing will fade the marks over time, but if the item is a simple white cotton fabric, a mild solution of bleach will help to remove the items.

A standard stain remover will also help to remove these marks.

 

 


Disclaimer: The information provided has been prepared as a guide only and the steps taken are likely to vary for different appliance models. We strongly recommend using a qualified engineer to undertake major repairs and fault finding.

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