I guess I could save a step by putting the fabric in the hot wash water right away.
I soak them so I can see how the dye(s) are behaving - and if a piece of fabric has really bad manners, I don't ruin a whole batch of fabric.
I put like colors together the first time I dunk the fabrics. So if there is an issue with the dyes running, bleeding, excess dye - it won't be an issue - I just remove that one and rinse it some more.
I have learned that there are some pieces that WON'T stop spilling dye.
I try to return them because I consider them defective. Sometimes the store will take them back - sometimes not. But i absolutely will not use it.
I don't use dye stabilizers - I figure if ithe dye wasn't fixed by the manufacturing process, my little home rememdies won't help.
I haven't tried them, though, so I don't really know if they work or not.
Comments?