Washing settings guide
Best Setting for Dark Clothes
Use this guide to wash dark clothes while reducing fading, dye transfer, and detergent marks.
For suitable washable dark clothes, sort compatible colours, turn items inside out and consider a cool gentle wash. The garment label and programme limits take priority over any generic colour setting.
Last updated: 22 September 2026
Quick answer
Best washing machine setting
Program
Compatible Darks or fabric programme
Temperature
Cool where permitted by the label
Spin
Use the suitable programme’s default; follow textile and model limits
Why: Colour care does not replace fabric care.
Safe tip: Check the care label and the load limit for this programme before starting.
Step-by-step setup
- 1.Read care labels and separate darks from pale items.
- 2.Turn suitable garments inside out.
- 3.Choose a compatible Darks or fabric programme and keep within its load limit.
- 4.Use a cool setting, such as 30°C where permitted, and a suitable detergent at the instructed dose.
- 5.Unload promptly and follow the labelled drying method.
Related problems and error codes
When to use this setting
- Black, navy, dark grey, and dark coloured clothes.
- Dark jeans, T-shirts, hoodies, and casual wear.
- Loads where colour protection matters.
When not to use it
- White or pale items are mixed in.
- Specialist fabrics or heavily soiled workwear need different treatment.
Common mistakes
- Assuming a Darks button makes every dark fabric compatible.
- Overdosing or overloading when white marks appear.
- Treating all washing powder as unsuitable: formulation, dose and rinsing matter.
Related guides
How to Wash Jeans in a Washing Machine
For machine-washable denim, start with its care label. Levi’s recommends a cold, gentle wash with jeans inside out and the zip closed, rather than treating all denim as a hot Cottons load.
Washing Machine Leaves Residue on Clothes
White marks or a soapy feel can have several causes. Check detergent instructions, load space and rinsing before assuming a fault; poor drainage is one possible contributor.
What Temperature to Wash Clothes in the UK
The number on a wash care label is an upper temperature limit. Routine lightly soiled clothes may suit 30°C or lower with an appropriate detergent; 40°C and 60°C are options only where the fabric and purpose allow them.
Frequently asked questions
Should dark clothes be washed cold?+
Cool washing can help colour care, but follow the garment’s instructions.
Why do dark clothes have white marks?+
Residue is one possibility, not a confirmed cause. Check the linked residue guide and rule out lint or marks already on the item.
Can dark clothes use Cottons?+
Suitable cotton items may, within their care limits. Dark silk, wool and other specialist fabrics need their own treatment.
Sources and limits
Programme names, load limits and permitted settings vary. Follow the item’s care label and the instructions for your exact machine.
- Ariel UK: reducing colour fadingSupports sorting, inside-out washing, avoiding overloading, lower-temperature care and prompt removal. No fixed spin speed is supplied. Checked 22 September 2026.
- Bosch UK: detergent residue on clothesIdentifies overloading and restricted drainage as possible reasons for poor rinsing. Filter and hose work must follow the exact model’s safety instructions. Checked 22 September 2026.