What is the ideal practice for washing colors and whites?

Separating colors and whites during laundry is the ideal practice to prevent color bleeding and maintain the brightness of white garments. When washed together, vibrant colors can release dyes that may transfer onto white fabrics, leading to discoloration or a grey tint over time. By keeping whites and colors separate, you ensure that each load can be washed under optimal conditions specific to the fabric type and color, thus preserving the aesthetics and lifespan of your clothing.

Washing whites and colors together could result in unsightly stains, while using hot water might worsen color bleeding and damage delicate fabrics. While non-chlorine bleach can be helpful for whitening and brightening some items, it does not address the fundamental issue of dye transfer between different colored items. Hence, separation remains the most effective way to protect your laundry.