Quick Answers
There are a few common reasons why white clothes can turn yellow in the closet over time without being exposed to bleach:
- Discolored plastic hangers rubbing off color
- Fabric dye transfer from other garments
- Exposure to heat, light, air, and humidity
- Buildup of body oils, lotions, and detergent residue
- Discoloration from wood shelves or drawers
The yellowing is often caused by a chemical reaction that occurs when white fabric is exposed to these conditions over an extended period. Proper storage and laundering practices can help prevent yellowing of whites in the closet.
Common Causes of Yellowing
There are several common culprits that can cause white garments to turn yellow in the closet over time:
Plastic Hangers
Plastic hangers, especially older or cheaper versions, can rub off dyes and chemicals onto clothing. The plasticizers used to make hangers pliable contain chemicals that can discolor fabrics they rest against. Choose non-yellowing hangers labeled safe for whites. Regularly inspect all hangers for discoloration and replace as needed.
Dye Transfer
Laundering fabrics together allows dye molecules to loosen and transfer onto other items. Over time, white fabrics stored near brightly colored clothes can pick up traces of dye that cause a yellowish tinge. Wash and dry darks and lights separately. Store white garments away from vibrant colors.
Heat, Light, Air and Humidity
Exposure to heat, sunlight, oxygen in the air, and humidity can cause gradual yellowing of white fabrics. The heat and UV radiation from the sun degrade and yellow materials. Oxygen can react with fabric dyes and whiteners. Moisture and humidity encourage yellowing chemical reactions.
Store clothing in a cool, dark place with climate control. Avoid attics, basements, and garages which tend to be hot, humid or damp. Use curtains or shades on nearby windows. Keep closet doors closed to block light and dust.
Body Oils, Lotions and Detergents
Oils naturally produced by skin, as well as external lotions, creams and hair products contain organic compounds that can transfer to clothing and cause yellow stains over time. Laundry detergent and fabric softener residues also contribute to gradual yellowing. Always check for stains before storing whites. Pre-treat oily stains. Rinse items thoroughly after washing.
Wood Shelves and Drawers
The acids naturally present in wood can cause yellow stains on fabrics. The effect is worsened by moisture, heat and lack of ventilation. Avoid storing clothing directly against bare wood. Line shelves and drawers with washable materials. Use cedar blocks and chips for a pleasant cedar scent and insect repellant properties.
Preventing White Clothes From Yellowing
Proper laundry, storage, and handling is key to keeping whites looking bright and preventing yellow discoloration:
- Wash white clothing separately from colors using warm or cold water.
- Use an oxygen powered bleach alternative when needed.
- Rinse items thoroughly to remove all traces of detergent.
- Air dry white clothing in the sun when possible.
- Fold and put away whites promptly to avoid dust and dirt.
- Store garments in breathable cotton or mesh bags.
- Keep closet space cool, dry and dark.
- Use non-yellowing plastic or wood hangers.
- Line shelves and drawers with clean white paper or fabric.
- Spot clean stains before storing.
- Check periodically for early signs of discoloration.
Following these tips will help keep white clothing looking bright white and avoid yellow staining while in storage.
Removing Yellow Discoloration
If white clothes already have a yellowish tinge, try these methods to whiten them again:
Bleach
For whites that can tolerate bleaching, use an oxygen bleach product. Check clothing tags – chlorine bleach can damage fibers. Soak in an oxygen bleach solution or add to the wash cycle. Avoid over-bleaching which can cause damage.
White Vinegar
White vinegar is an effective organic anti-yellowing agent. Soak fabrics in a mixture of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts cool water. Wash as normal. The acidic vinegar helps dissolve residues that cause dinginess.
Baking Soda
Baking soda whitens and brightens laundry. Add 1⁄2 cup baking soda to the wash or soak whites in a baking soda solution. For set stains, make a paste with baking soda and water and spot treat.
Sunlight
The sun’s UV rays have natural bleaching abilities. Wet whites and place in direct sunlight. For heavier stains, make a paste with baking soda, peroxide or OxiClean and apply to stained area before sunlight exposure. Check frequently – do not overexpose delicate fabrics.
Hydrogen Peroxide
As a bleach, hydrogen peroxide can lift yellow discoloration. Use a 3% solution. Pre-treat stains and heavily soiled areas. Add 1⁄2 cup peroxide to the wash cycle. Do not use on silk or wool.
Commercial Whitening Products
Specialty whitening products are designed to remove yellowing and stains. Use as directed on the packaging. Look for optical brighteners to boost whitening. Avoid harsh chlorine bleaches on delicate fabrics by opting for oxygen-based whiteners.
When to Discard Irreparably Yellowed Clothes
White garments with light yellowing often respond well to whitening techniques. However, over time white fabrics can become irreparably yellowed and dingy looking beyond help.
Consider discarding an item if:
- Whitening treatments no longer make a noticeable difference.
- Yellow stains have intensified and spread despite efforts.
- Yellowing is severe and apparent even when worn.
- Fibers or fabric have become weak or damaged.
- Odor and mustiness have developed.
- White garment is significantly older and well-worn.
Knowing when to let go of a discolored favorite white shirt or pair of socks can be difficult. If whitening methods are ineffective and the yellowing is very noticeable, it is probably time to replace the item.
Conclusion
A number of factors can cause white garments to turn yellow over time when in storage. Heat, light, air, wood, plastic hangers, dyes, and body oils and lotions all contribute to the common problem of yellowing. By using proper laundry care, storage methods, and prompt treatment, white clothes can stay bright and avoid yellow discoloration while tucked away in the closet. When whitening techniques no longer work, it may be time to toss out the irreparably yellowed whites and opt for fresh new replacements.