Many people can’t wait to wear their new clothes and show off their new look, while others always wash their clothes before wearing them for the first time, believing it’s necessary for health reasons. But is it really necessary to wash new clothes before wearing them? Are new clothes really dirty? Let’s explore both sides of the argument.
Can dyes in new clothes be harmful?
Should you wash new clothes before wearing them? (Image source: Sohu)
Colorful clothes often contain dyes, which may include chemicals that are not good for your health. If you buy clothes that are tight-fitting, there is a slight risk of adverse effects such as skin allergies. However, the chances of this happening are very low, so in most cases, you don’t need to worry about chemical residues on your clothes unless you have extremely sensitive skin or the garment is intended for a child.
Can formaldehyde in new clothes cause cancer?
Some people worry that formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, may be present in new clothes and that wearing them without washing could increase the risk of cancer. While formaldehyde can be harmful, whether it poses a cancer risk depends on the concentration and duration of exposure. In reality, new clothes may contain trace amounts of formaldehyde, but it’s not enough to cause cancer, so there’s no need to panic.
Moreover, formaldehyde is highly volatile and will dissipate over time, especially if the clothes have been on display for a while.
Are the smells of new clothes harmful to your health?
You may notice a strong smell on new clothes, which is why some people choose to wash them before wearing them. But are these unique smells harmful to humans? Actually, the smell comes from residual finishing agents used on the clothes, and they are not very harmful to the body. These agents are mainly used to smooth, color, and sterilize the fabric, so there’s no need to be overly concerned.
Should you wash new clothes before wearing them? (Image source: Sohu)
In conclusion, wearing new clothes without washing them first won’t put you in danger. If you’re in a hurry or need to change into something immediately, it’s fine to wear new clothes without washing them. However, it’s important to note that unwashed clothes may not be completely hygienic as they can accumulate dust and fibers. Additionally, if someone else has tried on the garment and has a skin condition, you may be at risk of infection. Therefore, it’s still best to wash your clothes before wearing them, especially for undergarments that are in direct contact with your skin.
This is especially true for children’s clothing, as their skin is more delicate and sensitive. While the chances of infection are low, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Choosing clothes that are kind to your skin
– Opt for clothes made from pure cotton or linen in light or plain colors. Avoid brightly colored garments as they are more likely to be dyed.
– When choosing underwear and baby clothes, go for plain colors, small prints, and natural fabrics like cotton and linen, which are gentler on the skin.
According to VTC News
5 Easy Ways to Maintain Clean Clothing
Using only two bottles of water, you can effectively take care of clothes that are easily wrinkled and prone to tearing.