Read two labels before using bleach
Check both the garment care label and the bleach product directions. The garment may permit all bleach, only non-chlorine bleach, or no bleach.
Chlorine bleach has narrower fabric compatibility
ACI notes that sodium hypochlorite bleach is powerful but is not suitable for materials such as wool or silk.
Oxygen bleach is not permission to ignore the label
Color-safe or oxygen bleach can be gentler, but it is still a chemical laundry product that must be used according to directions.
Use the washer dispenser correctly
Washer designs differ. Follow the appliance manual for dispenser use and dilution instead of pouring concentrated bleach directly onto clothes.
Use product-specific instructions
Garment care labels, appliance manuals and laundry-product directions can be more specific than a general guide. Use them when they set a tighter limit.