It is common for many of us to develop a habit of showering and changing our clothes at night, marking the end of a long day. As a result, it is convenient to also wash our clothes and hang them out to dry. However, according to ancient beliefs, hanging clothes to dry at night is considered taboo.
From a spiritual and feng shui perspective, hanging clothes overnight invites malevolent spirits.
In the past, people believed that spirits and ghosts were most active at night and would use clothing as a vessel to latch onto the living, or as a means to enter homes when the clothes were brought inside.
The night is when homeless spirits wander, and when they see clothes hanging outside, these mischievous spirits may take shelter in them. Therefore, hanging clothes overnight is considered extremely unlucky, inviting malevolent spirits into your home, which can affect the health of the wearer and increase negative energy, leading to a state of confusion and disharmony within the family.
Our lives are considered ‘yang’ (positive energy), and when a ‘yin’ (negative energy) spirit attaches itself to our clothing, it increases the yin energy, causing arguments, conflicts, and instability within the family, leading to bad luck in all endeavors.
Furthermore, hanging clothes at night under flickering lights can startle and panic people, causing fear and mental distress, which can lead to family decline and poor health. Additionally, clothes hanging in the dark can be seen as ghostly figures, attracting more lost souls to the home, causing chaos and making it difficult for the God of Wealth to bless the household.
From a scientific and health perspective
Hanging clothes outside at night is when dew forms, which is not beneficial for drying and can increase the risk of mold and mildew. Dew can also leave salt stains or dust marks on the clothes, making them look blotchy and requiring additional washing.
The humid night air can cause clothes to retain moisture for longer, leading to a musty smell and possibly skin irritation, vaginal infections, and skin inflammation. Thick garments that hold water can be even more dangerous when hung out at night.
Clothes hung out at night are also more prone to insect droppings or hair-like filaments that can cause itching without us realizing it. Therefore, if you experience itching or notice mold on your clothes, it may be due to hanging them out overnight.
Clothes left hanging overnight are also more susceptible to damage as they remain damp and musty for extended periods. Especially for those who prefer fragrant clothes, hanging them overnight in humid conditions will result in a less-than-pleasant smell.
Therefore, it is best to wash your clothes in the morning and hang them to dry during the day, bringing them in at night. If your household has a dedicated indoor drying area, you can hang them there, but ensure it is well-ventilated and does not create a frightening atmosphere for others.
In essence, it is advisable not to hang clothes overnight to maintain positive feng shui energy. Hanging clothes at night brings negative energy into the home and does not attract good fortune or prosperity.
What if I accidentally hung my clothes overnight?
If you have already hung your clothes overnight, inspect them for any signs of mold or insect infestations. If you find any, it is best to wash them again to ensure they are safe to wear.
If your schedule does not allow for daytime drying, consider hanging them in a well-ventilated indoor area or under a covered area outside. Bring them inside in the morning to avoid leaving them out during the day, which could also invite negative energy, according to feng shui beliefs.
This information is based on ancient beliefs and should be interpreted accordingly.