Soda Ash Fixer for Long-Lasting Color with Fiber Reactive Dyes
Soda Ash, also known as sodium carbonate or washing soda, is essential for artists using fiber reactive dyes such as Procion MX. This mild alkali activates the chemical bond between the dye and cellulose-based fabrics, creating bright, permanent color that resists fading. It is a key ingredient for tie-dye, immersion, and machine dyeing techniques.
Used as a pre-soak or added directly to the dye bath, Soda Ash helps dyes attach evenly to natural fibers like cotton, linen, and rayon. The result is consistent, vivid color that stays true through repeated washing.
Key Features
- Essential fixer for Procion MX and other fiber reactive dyes
- Creates strong chemical bonds with cellulose fibers
- Mild alkali also known as sodium carbonate or washing soda
- Supports vibrant, fade-resistant color on natural fabrics
Perfect For
- Pre-soaking fabric for tie-dye and low immersion dyeing
- Dyeing cotton, rayon, linen, and other plant fibers
- Machine dyeing with fiber reactive dyes
- Achieving durable, color-rich fabric results
Instructions
Tie-Dye Pre-Soak: Mix 1 cup (0.23 kg) of Soda Ash per 1 gallon (3.79 L) of warm water. Soak fabric for 20 minutes, then wring out by hand without rinsing before dyeing.
Immersion Dyeing: Use 1/4 to 1/3 cup (57–78 g) of Soda Ash per 3 gallons (11.36 L) of water. Add to the dye bath following your recipe.
Machine Dyeing: Dissolve 2 to 3 cups (0.47–0.71 kg) of Soda Ash in 1 quart (0.95 L) of hot water. Add slowly during the dye cycle as directed by your method.