How do you set a dye?

Question

I recently bought a cotton (I think) bag in Guatemala, and now the dye has begun to rub off onto my skin and clothing. A friend who was on the trip with me said that I should put the bag in saltwater and let it soak to set the dye. I did that, and a bunch of dye just came out in the water. What should I do?

Answer 1

The fabrics and dye's in third world countries are not of the best quality.  In order to maintain the uniform colors, they don't wash them after the dying process.  You will need to keep washing th bag, hang it to dry.  Repeating the process will eventually flush it out.  

If the color is too washed out, find a store that sells RIT dye products.  Try and match the color.

Answer 2

add white vinegar to the wash

Answer 3

Soak in white vinegar in cold water for about 30 min. Slightly wring out the bag then hang to dry. Do not rinse the vinegar out and no it doesn't smell when dry. about 1 cup vinegar to a sink full of water should do the trick. This also works for new towels, and dark colors, and  reds as well