Bleeding Dyes on Vintage Camp Blanket

I have a 1940s/1950s cotton Southwestern print camp blanket. It's in rough shape and very dirty and have been trying to clean it. It's not really valuable, I just like the look and want to decorate with it.

I've done about 20 soaks over the past 24 hours in cool and warm water and the water still runs somewhat pink from the red dye that is in part of the pattern.

Will this old dye ever completely wash out or will it always bleed? I just don't want the colors rubbing off if this is used on a chair, etc. Trying to know if I'm wasting my time.

Thanks

 

I've heard of the red dye bleeding when washed....but not when dry...???

 

So would it just bleed forever when wet?

In my experience if something bleeds when washed in cold water it will probably rub off on other clothes/materials when dry.

Just wondering if there is any way to completely wash out the dye or if that's just how it is with these old textiles.

 

Not all red dyes behave the same way. Your best bet may be to let it dry, and then test it by rubbing with another cloth to see if the dye transfers.

 

I've heard that you can use a salt soak to "set" dyes...

This came off my google search... there are more comments if you google.

Mix colors Add salt if dyeing cotton or linen or white vinegar for wool or silk; the amount will depend on the size of the dye bath. We used ¼ cup of either salt or vinegar for a bath of about 1 gallon, ½ cup for 2 gallons, and 1 cup for 3 or more gallons. (These additions help the fabric take the dye.)Sep 26, 2023

Good luck! Cheerio, Leslie