How do you wash out the dust in white clothes?

[Skywater]

So, I made two grave mistakes at Burning Man. One was losing my favorite earrings, which I should not have brought with me.

The second tragedy that occured is that I wore a white buttondown shirt (that I tied like Cindy Lauper and wore sequin hotpants with and fake flowers over my bikini top). And I can't get the dust stains out of it. I can't use chlorox bleach because the fabric doesn't allow for it (I tried bleach on an inseam, and it turned yellow). I've soaked it and soaked it, and it still has yellowish spots. Is there some magic solution to my problem that you have encountered?

Thanks!

[AntiM]

Try a diluted white vinegar rinse. Works well for me.

[theCryptofishist]

(that I tied like Cindy Lauper and wore sequin hotpants with and fake flowers over my bikini top).

No, clothes that have been worn in that fashion will never recover...

(Seriously though, how is that pertinent?)

[danibel]

Calgon is your friend.

[Popeye]

Calgon- Rhino's suggestion. It works.

[XxBlueBeardxX]

I'm not too sure about white clothes but, I have had great success with a bucket of water and a hefty dose of vinegar and then soak. Then I throw the clothes in the washing machine with normal soap and vinegar and they come out as bright as when I first got them. The playa is slightly alkaline and so adding some mild acid (vinegar/lime/lemon juice works) helps to neutralize the dust and remove it with soap. Dr Broner's soap is great too.

[Skywater]

(that I tied like Cindy Lauper and wore sequin hotpants with and fake flowers over my bikini top).

No, clothes that have been worn in that fashion will never recover...

(Seriously though, how is that pertinent?)

hahahahaha it did get me a free martini from a man in rainbow hot pants and a megaphone atop a large bus. A fedora was also involved. And no, it's not pertinent, but the best part of life is decoration right? (Riiight?)

Thank you to all of you who weighed in! Super helpful!

[Skywater]

Hey - update question: how do you use Calgon? Do you just soak clothes in it and then put them in the washer? or put it in the washer with the clothes along with detergent? Advice is very much appreciated!

[danibel]

Both. I put 1/4 cup in a bucket with enough water to cover the clothing item in question. I also add a little to the washer when doing a load of clothes returned from the playa. Last resort - follow the directions on box.

I hope this helps.

[AfricanFire]

I had a few white things that were good and playafied. I do a pre-rinse with a strong vinegar solution, then wash as normal with regular detergent and oxyclean. Whites look good as new.

[maladroit]

I threw my dusty Camelbak into the washer with some Calgon, it came out looking so new I was almost ashamed to bring it along.