Name: Adam

Region: California
Message: Does it matter how long you leave the dye on?

What kind of dye are you talking about? If it's the fiber reactive dye in a good tie-dye kit (not Rit!), then it's best to keep the dyed items wet overnight in a warm place. See "How to Dye with Fiber Reactive Dye". You should generally wash the dye out within a day or two, but it's okay to sometimes let it go longer; see "How long can I let a Procion dyed shirt sit without washing it out?".

Other dyeing recipes may be completed in as little as an hour, depending on the specific dye, the amount of water, the temperature, and other factors.

All-purpose dye, such as Rit or Tintex, works best when the fabric is simmered in the dye at 190°F for at least half an hour, but even then is not nearly as satisfactory on cotton as a good fiber reactive dye, such as Procion MX dye.

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