Best way to whiten cotton garments?

[BigBrother]

Very simple question here, the stuff of commercials and parodies through the ages... how do I get my whites whiter?

I'm not talking about delicate vintage garments here, simply my dress shirts, T shirts, tuxedo shirts, etc. Using run of the mill detergent doesn't really do it, bleach is terrible, and I've never ventured into OxyClean and the like.

So, since you all are experts at every fabric and treatment known, I figured you must have this one easily!

For what it's worth, my most important targets with this are my detachable stiff collars and my stiff front tuxedo shirt (don't worry, both are washable!) I'd like them super crisp and to remove all stains from sweat, black suspender dye, etc.

Thank you so much!!

 

[retro ruth]

I use oxyclean types. And sunlight is great too.

Sometimes enzyme-based cleaners, I don't know the USA brands, are more effective than oxyclean for sweat. In the UK there's a brand called Biotex.

 

[denisebrain]

I second what Ruth said.

You can buy a detergent with enzymes and oxygen bleach (not chlorine bleach), or use an oxy product with an enzyme detergent. Warm water is fine, but not hot, and I'd let your items soak for a few hours, and if you've made a difference, repeat, etc.

 

[BigBrother]

Why warm and not hot, out of curiosity? And any oxy product in particular you'd recommend (available here in the States)? Thanks!

 

[denisebrain]

Hot water can cause fibers to shrink and weaken. Personally I use Oxiclean along with Ecos, but Biz detergent is one that has both the enzymes and oxygen bleach.

 

[anothertimevintageapparel]

I use Restoration and cold or warm water. I have never had luck with Oxiclean for some reason.

It may be trial and error of a few products until you get the right one.

 

[Vintagiality]

I use Restoration all the time too on almost everything

 

[BigBrother]

Hot water can cause fibers to shrink and weaken. Personally I use Oxiclean along with Ecos, but Biz detergent is one that has both the enzymes and oxygen bleach.

Biz is one that came up for me today when I was reading about the history of OxiClean. Seems like an amazing product. I'm surprised it's not more widespread.

 

[amandainvermont]

I am hooked on Biz.

 

[Vinclothes]

I agree with all of above. And rinse, rinse rinse. Also remember sun for all whites. Hang it somewhere safe from birds and kind of forget about it for a day or two.
Marian

 

[bycinbyhand]

I've been known to use bluing!

 

[Distantdetails]

I so agree with what Marian said. I live in a sunny clime, so I hang things on a clothesline I've rigged up, and I'm surprised every time they turn out so WHITE.

Good luck! I'm enjoying these reminders about how to proceed.

 

[BigBrother]

@amandainvermont Can you tell me a bit more about your experience with Biz, which one you use and how, etc.? This will likely be my new trial product!

 

[Stacy Lynne]

Hi I use something called Soil-Love. I started using it for my son and daughters white baseball/softball uniforms. The clay from the fields was red add green grass stains and they were trash after 2 days until Soil-Love. I use it on yellowed collar's and armpit stains, it removes grease stains and is safe on colors. 99¢ stores try it. One thing is if you overuse it on an item it may wear out the elastic faster.