Soda Ash Fixer

How to Use Soda Ash with Dharma Fiber Reactive Dye

We offer pure, dense, anhydrous form of soda ash. We don't cut it and we don't dilute it. What does that mean? You may use up to 25% less soda ash powder to achieve the ideal pH for fixing the dyes. 

Soda ash is essential for fixing (making permanent) Dharma Fiber Reactive Dye on cotton and other cellulose fibers. It enables the dye to bond with the fibers at lower temperatures, making it one of the most permanent fabric dyes available.

How Much Soda Ash to Use?

For use on cellulose fabrics (Cotton, Rayon, Linen, Hemp, etc.):

• Soda Soak Method for Tie-Dye and Ice Dyeing: 1 cup per gallon of warm water
• Garment Dyeing: 1 oz. per gallon of warm water

Tip: The amount of soda ash needed depends on the water volume and your water source. The recipe above should yield an ideal pH of 10.5. However, because every water source is different, we recommend testing the pH level with our pH test strips or digital meter. If the solution is too low in pH, the dye won’t fully adhere to the fabric.

Using Soda Ash on Silk

For use on proteins such as silk (use with caution):

Soda ash can be used to fix fiber reactive dyes on silk when heat-setting isn’t an option, but use with caution.

• Use half the amount compared to cotton
• Limit exposure: Presoak just before tie-dyeing and cure for only 4 to 6 hours
• Thinner silks are more vulnerable and may lose their sheen or even fall apart

What About Wool?

When it comes to wool, it tends to feel brittle after being exposed to soda ash so it's best to stick with acid dyes with lots of heat/steam instead.

Safety Precautions

Caution! Soda ash is mildly caustic and can cause irritation. Treat it like powdered bleach or other caustic laundry products.

Protect Yourself:

• Wear an N95 dust mask 
• Use gloves and eye protection
• Avoid inhaling the dust

First Aid:

Skin Contact? Rinse off immediately.
Eye Contact? Flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention if irritation persists.

Protect Your Workspace:

Soda ash can damage surfaces. Cover anything that might be affected before use.