Getting dye out of clothes

[HandleyPhoto]

Hi there,

Not sure where exactly to post this question but I figure alt process was close enough. I have a ton of old pants that are ripped to shreds after long use, I was hoping to use them as a printing material but wanted to remove the dyes to make them white. Does anyone know a good bleaching method for this or know if it’s possible.

Thank you,
Jacob

 

[koraks]

Household bleach comes to mind. You generally end up with some remaining color; shades of yellow or tan. But it may just be good enough.
Use too much bleach and the textile will disintegrate, so be somewhat careful.

 

[Sirius Glass]

Bleach should do the job. Follow the instructions. You may have to repeat the process several times to get every part completely white.

 

[Ian Grant]

While Sodium Hypochlorite (household bleach) will work, but as said not to white, it will also seriously damage the fabric. Milk of Lime might be an option.

Ian