In the 1770’s, Colonists did not know about…

…germs yet.  It was only in the Late Colonial/Georgian period people figured out they should wash their clothes and themselves regularly to prevent sickness.  A new type of detergent similar to today’s bleach was being used.  Because it turned everything white, white became the most popular color for things that would be worn a lot or touch the ground.

(Painting:  18th century white washing)