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Should You Wash New Clothes Before Wearing Them? Many Are Doing It Wrong Without Realizing.

There are varying opinions on whether or not one should wash new clothes before wearing them. While some advocate for a thorough cleaning prior to donning the garments, others dismiss the notion altogether.

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3 September, 2024

Should You Wash New Clothes Before Wearing Them?

There’s a divide when it comes to whether or not you should wash new clothes before wearing them. Some people advocate for giving them a good wash first, while others see no need for it. But the correct answer is yes, you should.

Why You Should Wash New Clothes Before Wearing Them

Firstly, from a production standpoint, newly purchased clothes go through numerous processes and are handled by multiple workers. The lack of proper hygiene during these processes and among workers can lead to surface contamination on the clothing.

Secondly, various chemicals are used on garments, such as anti-wrinkle and water-repellent treatments, to enhance comfort and water resistance. Formaldehyde is also commonly used in printing and dyeing processes to improve color fastness and reduce wrinkling. However, formaldehyde is harmful to the body, and washing new clothes can effectively reduce its presence, minimizing potential health risks.

Thirdly, if you wear new clothes without washing them, especially those of inferior quality, you may find yourself covered in black residue when you take them off. This residue resembles tiny fabric fragments and can cause skin irritation or even infection if not addressed promptly, particularly for those with sensitive skin.

Fourthly, for certain types of outerwear, there is generally no need to wash them before wearing. As these garments are typically worn over other layers of clothing, you need not be concerned. It is advisable to air them out for a few days after purchase to reduce formaldehyde and other harmful substances.

How to Clean New Clothes

Cleaning new clothes is simple. Just prepare a basin of water, add an appropriate amount of salt, and soak the clothes for half an hour. Then, follow your regular washing routine by adding detergent or laundry liquid and giving them a good wash. This process effectively removes formaldehyde and dirt, and the salt helps keep your clothes soft and colors vibrant.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, it is generally recommended to wash new clothes before wearing them. This is because they may contain chemicals and allergens from the manufacturing process, as well as dirt and bacteria from transportation and handling.

New clothes may bleed dye, especially dark-colored ones, so it’s best to wash them separately to avoid staining other garments. Also, some clothes may shrink during the first few washes, so washing them separately ensures they don’t become misshapen.

Read the care label on your garment and follow the instructions. Generally, it’s best to use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Avoid using fabric softener as it may reduce the absorbency of the fabric and affect its breathability. Also, air-dry your clothes instead of using a dryer to prevent shrinkage and damage.

Yes, certain types of clothing may not need to be washed before wear. For example, underwear and socks are usually fine to wear straight out of the package as they are in direct contact with your intimate areas and will be washed after each wear anyway. Additionally, some clothing items made from natural materials like linen or cotton may not require pre-washing as they are less likely to contain harmful chemicals.