I love the gremlins -- they seem to hide just what I need when I don't have time to look for it. I had to buy more fabric for a project because I put it away too well.
For your reds -- I would wet a small piece in warm water, put it on a paper towel with something heavy on top (a jar of pickles) and let it dry. If it bleeds then you know you have to get the excess color out.