Drum Dry Dye Transfer & Cleaning Guide
DRYER DRUM DYE TRANSFER & CLEANING GUIDE
APPARATUS DRYING TOWEL — INITIAL CARE
The Maltese Microfiber Apparatus Drying Towel is manufactured in a deep red color specifically selected for the fire service. During the initial wash and dry cycles, some excess dye may be released. This initial dye release should diminish with continued proper washing.
IMPORTANT — AVOID HIGH HEAT
Dryer drum dye transfer is most likely to occur when the Apparatus Drying Towel is dried using HIGH HEAT, particularly during the towel’s initial wash and dry cycles.
High dryer temperatures can contribute to residual dye transferring from the towel onto the surface of the dryer drum.
MALTESE MICROFIBER RECOMMENDS DRYING ON LOW HEAT.
If high heat is accidentally used and red dye transfers to the dryer drum, the drum can generally be cleaned using the procedure below.
HOW TO CLEAN THE DRYER DRUM
1. Turn off and unplug the dryer.
Always disconnect the dryer from its power source before manually cleaning the drum.
2. Prepare a mild cleaning solution.
Mix powdered laundry detergent with very warm water to create a paste. A liquid, nonflammable household cleaner suitable for the dryer drum may also be used.
3. Apply with a soft cloth.
Apply the detergent mixture or appropriate nonflammable cleaner to a soft cloth and gently work the stained areas of the drum.
4. Remove the transferred dye.
Continue wiping the affected areas until the excess dye residue has been removed. Do not use abrasive pads, steel wool, or other materials that could scratch the dryer drum.
5. Wipe the drum thoroughly.
Using a separate clean, damp cloth, wipe the entire treated area to remove any remaining detergent, cleaner, or dye residue.
6. Allow the drum to dry.
Make sure the drum is clean and completely dry before reconnecting and operating the dryer.
7. Run a test load.
Once the drum has been cleaned, tumble a load of clean, older towels or cloths and inspect them afterward to make sure no remaining dye transfers.
SAFETY INFORMATION
Use only nonflammable cleaning products inside a dryer drum.
Never use gasoline, alcohol, solvents, or other flammable cleaning products. Follow your dryer manufacturer’s cleaning and safety instructions before using any cleaning product inside the appliance.
Wear appropriate gloves when cleaning, keep the area well ventilated, and reconnect the dryer only after the drum has been thoroughly wiped clean and is completely dry.
HELP MINIMIZE INITIAL DYE TRANSFER
For best results with your Maltese Microfiber Apparatus Drying Towels:
DRY ON LOW HEAT — DO NOT USE HIGH HEAT.
Wash new red Apparatus Drying Towels separately during the initial wash cycles.
Wash with like colors in cold water.
Use a mild detergent.
Do not use bleach.
Do not use fabric softener.
Continue washing separately until initial excess dye release has subsided.
TROUBLESHOOTING TIP
If dye transfer appears inside the dryer drum, check the dryer temperature setting first. High heat is the most common condition associated with this type of transfer.
A NOTE FROM MALTESE MICROFIBER
Some initial dye release can occur with deeply colored microfiber products. The deep red Apparatus Drying Towel may release excess dye during its first several wash cycles.
This initial dye release does not affect the towel’s drying performance and should diminish with continued proper washing.