Buying new clothes is always a thrill. The fresh, crisp fabric, the vibrant colors, and certainly the fit, make it so tempting to rip off the tags and wear it straight out of the bag to that next event or even just out to dinner.
If you’re the type of person who has that kind of impulse to wear new clothes without washing them first, there’s a chance you may pay the price for it a few days later in the form of red, itchy, painful skin irritations.
So, should you wash new clothes before wearing them? Let’s get into the facts!
What Are the Risks of Not Washing New Clothes?
When you snag that stylish new silk blouse from the rack and decide to skip the wash, you might invite more than just compliments. Here’s what you could risk by wearing new garments straight off the rack:
1) Skin Irritation and Allergies
Many new garments are treated with chemicals like formaldehyde to keep them wrinkle-free and looking fresh. These chemicals can cause allergic reactions or irritate sensitive skin. Symptoms range from mild itching and redness to more severe rashes and discomfort. For those with particularly sensitive skin or existing skin conditions, these reactions can be even more pronounced.
2) Exposure to Chemical Residue
New clothes often come with a host of chemical residues. Along with formaldehyde, dyes and finishing agents are used during the manufacturing process. Some of these chemicals, like azo dyes, can be harmful if they come into prolonged contact with your skin. These residues can be absorbed through your skin, potentially leading to health issues over time.
3) Bacterial Contamination
Another risk is bacterial contamination. New clothes travel a long way from the factory to your wardrobe, passing through multiple hands and environments. They can pick up bacteria and germs along the way. While not all bacteria are harmful, some can cause infections, especially if you have cuts or abrasions on your skin.
4) Color Transfer and Bleeding
New clothes, particularly those with vibrant colors, can bleed or transfer dye onto your skin or other clothes. This not only ruins your outfit but can also cause skin irritation – again. Washing your new clothes before wearing them helps set the dye, reducing the risk of color transfer. This is especially important for items such as dark jeans or bright tops.
5) Unpleasant Odors
Ever noticed new clothes sometimes have a strange, chemical smell? This odor is often due to the various chemicals used in manufacturing and shipping. Wearing clothes with this lingering smell can be unpleasant and sometimes overwhelming. But washing your new garments gets rid of these odors, leaving them smelling fresh and ready to wear.
6) Inadequate Fit and Feel
Washing new clothes can improve their fit and feel. Many fabrics have a slight shrinkage when washed for the first time, which is accounted for in the design. Washing them in water also helps soften the fabric, making them more comfortable against your skin. If you skip this step, you might find your new clothes feel stiffer and less comfortable than expected.
How to Properly Wash New Clothes for the First Time
01 – Read the Care Labels
- Check the instructions: Before throwing anything into the washing machine, read the care labels. They provide essential information on how to handle each item.
- Look for special instructions: Pay attention to tags on delicate items such as a sweater, gown, or dress shirt, which may need specific care.
02 – Sort Your Laundry
- Separate by color: Sort clothes into whites, darks, and colors to prevent color bleeding.
- Separate by fabric type: Group together similar fabrics. For instance, keep together sweaters and other knit items, away from heavier fabrics like denim.
03 – Choose the Right Detergent
- Use a gentle detergent: Opt for a mild detergent, especially for delicate items. Harsh detergents can damage new fabrics.
- Avoid fabric softeners: For the first wash, skip fabric softeners, as they can leave a residue on new clothes.
04 – Set Your Washing Machine
- Cold water setting: Use cold water to prevent color bleeding and shrinkage, especially for bright colors and delicate fabrics.
- Gentle cycle: Select the gentle cycle on your washing machine for delicate items such as a gown or dress shirt to avoid damage.
05 – Wash Delicates Separately
- Use a mesh laundry bag: Place delicate items such as sweaters and gowns in a mesh laundry bag to protect them during the wash.
- Hand wash if necessary: For very delicate items, consider hand washing instead of using the washing machine.
06 – Dry with Care
- Air dry when possible: Lay delicate items flat to dry or hang them up. This helps maintain their shape and prevent shrinkage.
- Use a clothes dryer sparingly: If you must use a clothes dryer, choose a low heat setting to avoid damaging the fabric.
How to Handle New Clothes That Can’t Be Washed
Sometimes, you come across new clothes that aren’t suitable for a standard wash. These could be items such as leather jackets, suede accessories, or that long beaded gown. So, what do you do when washing isn’t an option? Below are some practical tips to keep those special items fresh and clean:
Air Them Out
- Why: Fresh air helps eliminate any chemical odors and refreshes the fabric.
- How: Hang your new clothes in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, for a few hours or overnight.
Use a Clothes Steamer
- Why: Steaming is gentle and effective for removing wrinkles and freshening up fabrics.
- How: Gently steam your new garments, holding the steamer a few inches away to avoid water spots. This is especially useful for items such as silk blouses or delicate gowns.
Spot Clean
- Why: Tackles small stains or spots without needing a full wash.
- How: Use a mild detergent or a fabric-specific cleaner. Apply it to a clean cloth and gently dab the stained area. Avoid rubbing, which can spread the stain or damage the fabric.
Dry Cleaning
- Why: Professional dry cleaning can safely clean items that are not suitable for home washing.
- How: Take your items to a reputable dry cleaning service. For those in Dayton, Ohio, there are plenty of options. Make sure to mention any stains or specific concerns you have.
Store Properly
- Why: Proper storage prevents dust buildup and keeps your clothes in good condition.
- How: Use breathable garment bags for items such as gowns and coats. Store leather and suede items in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture damage.
Want Professional Care for Your Newly Purchased Garments? Call Fox Cleaners Today!
Washing clothes before wearing them is just good personal hygiene. But when it comes to specialty items such as a stunning wedding dress, delicate linen blouse, or sharp leather jacket, the usual spin in the washing machine won’t do. Fox Cleaners, on the other hand, can help! We offer services like dry cleaning, wash and fold laundry, alterations, and even household item cleaning. We proudly serve customers in Dayton, Ohio, and the neighboring communities!
Need more information or have specific instructions for your items? Don’t hesitate to call us at 937-276-4171 to schedule a service! You can also email us at info@thefoxcleaners.com with further questions.
