Jacquard Optical Brightener For Fabric

Jacquard Dye Additive - Optical Brightener, 8 oz Jar

Like laundry bluing, this brightener makes dull fabrics appear whiter by turning UV light into blue light. Under a blacklight, white fabrics treated with the brightener fluoresce and glow.

For 100% natural fibers. Use 2–5% brightener relative to fabric weight.

Always wear gloves and rinse fabric well after application. Residual brightener may stain skin. Results may vary by fabric and method.

Stovetop Method: Fill a stainless steel or enamel pot with enough warm water for fabric to move freely. Add the brightener and dissolve fully. Add pre-wetted fabric and bring to 180°F. For cotton/linen/rayon, add 1 cup salt; for silk/wool, add 1/3 cup of white vinegar instead of salt. Stir frequently for 30 minutes, then cool, rinse, and wash with mild detergent.

Washing Machine Method: Add brightener and fabric to washer. For cotton and linen, add 1 cup salt; for silk, add 1/3 cup vinegar. Run on the longest, hottest cycle. Finish with a cold wash using mild detergent. (Turn off pre-wash/spin to avoid draining brightener.)

Tie-Dye Method: Thoroughly dissolve 1 cup Soda Ash per gallon of water. Soak fabric in the soda ash solution for at least 20 minutes. Then, wring out by hand. In 1 cup of tap water, mix 2 or more teaspoons of Optical Brightener. Apply the dye to the tied fabric using a squirt bottle, paint brush, or sponge. Turn the piece over and repeat on the opposite side. Cover the fabric with plastic wrap and let it stand for 12 to 24 hours in a warm place.

For rinsing: While wearing gloves, rinse the dyed fabric first with cool water, then with warmer water. After 3 or 4 rinses, when the water is nearly clear, prepare a soap soak. Use 2 to 3 gallons of very warm tap water and 1½ teaspoons of Synthrapol®. The fabric should sit in this soap bath for 5 to 10 minutes. Rinse 3 or 4 additional times with warm water, or run a hot wash cycle in the machine.