Our moms have forever instructed us to wash our clothing thoroughly before putting them on for the first time. But ever wondered why? Also, at times our mind must have questioned a lot of times whether it is okay if we wear new clothes without washing them? or maybe many times we have worn them directly without washing them.

We all love new clothes. Bright colours, clean lines, no wrinkles, and embellishments are flawless. We can’t wait to wear the crisp new outfit purchased from the shop. Why would we ever wash them and risk ruining their crisp appearance before we even have a chance to wear them?

But! Before wearing those beautiful garments, you must wait just a day more and wash the clothes thoroughly with soap and water. Whether it’s a brand-new dress or a pair of jeans, or a second-hand outfit, it is important to wash them before wearing them to prevent skin diseases and much more. 

Read ahead to find out the 4 Reasons you must wash your new clothes before wearing them for the first time.

1. Dermatitis, Fungal Or Bacterial Infections

Because of the trying-on garments by many people, it is possible to spread bacteria, fungus, scabies, lice, and other contagious diseases. Everything from infections to athlete’s foot can flourish in dressing rooms. Why run the risk?

2. Irritants Or Carcinogenic Chemicals

Fabrics of polyester, rayon and nylon often contain quinoline, a chemical which may lead to skin cancer. Quinoline is considered to be a carcinogenic chemical by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. If your new clothes are polyester, rayon, or nylon fabric, remember to wash them thoroughly. To completely remove such cancer-causing substances, wash the clothing in a washing machine with mild detergent powder.

Additionally, fabrics are finished with Urea-formaldehyde to improve texture and minimise wrinkles. Manufacturers use it as a preservative when transporting clothes over long distances (between countries) over containers. It is a chemical that causes rashes on sensitive skin. It has a strong smell that will linger in the cloth until the item is washed. We recommend cleaning it with a premium laundry service that uses eco-friendly products. 

3. To Get Rid Of Excess Dyes To Prevent Colour Bleeding

Have you worn new jeans and all the colour was dyed on your lower body, including the other clothes you paired with them? Not just jeans, many dark-coloured bottoms contain excessive dyes, which make them bleed colours. Wash them with soap in lukewarm water immediately after bringing them home, as it helps to remove excessive harsh dyes. Most synthetic fabrics (polyester, acrylic) are coloured with azo-aniline dyes. People who are allergic to them may experience severe skin reactions. A severe allergy will result in a rash that resembles poison ivy. However, even milder reactions might result in dry or inflamed skin regions. 

4. To Get Rid Of Accidental Unnoticed Stains 

Sometimes we are in a hurry to buy new clothes and we don’t know how many people might have tried on that particular dress and may have accidentally left a lipstick or some other stain while trying them. Fast fashion brands frequently have stains and streaks of makeup that might go unnoticed by us while shopping. While attempting new dresses and shirts in trial rooms, one frequently unintentionally leaves lipstick smudges, foundation streaks, and stains on the dresses they try. Before you put on the new clothes, these stains must be eliminated. Use baking soda to clean the garment and gently remove lipstick and makeup stains. Wash the new garments at home or book a laundry service. 

How To Wash New Clothes Before Wearing Them 

To wash your new clothes, follow the instructions labelled on the care tag. If the tag reads “wash separately before wearing, ” watch out for dye transfer and colour bleeding. The excessive dye can be mainly removed by washing, but make sure to check the rinse water after each wash. If the cloth still bleeds the colour in the water, continue washing it with similar colours or separately. It could take a few more washings to remove the excess dyes and guard against harm to other fabrics. 

Also Read: 10 Tips to Wash Towels the right way

Why Is It Utmost Necessary To Wash Or Dry Clean – Used, Second-Hand Or Tried Clothes?

The best eco-friendly practice is to purchase used clothing from thrift stores. However, even though the clothes have thoroughly been washed or premium dry cleaned before putting it to sale, washing once again will ensure better results for your family. For hygienic reasons and to avoid skin irritations for someone who has skin sensitivity, it is crucial to wash used clothing with organic, eco-friendly detergent in warm water before wearing it. Nonetheless, second-hand clothes from thrift stores are safe and should be encouraged to conserve the environment. 

Baby’s New Clothes

Babies have the most sensitive skin and quickly develop rashes; sometimes, we don’t even know the real reason. Therefore, the importance of washing children’s clothing, especially newborns’ or infants’, before wearing it cannot be emphasised more. Choose an organic, eco-friendly, and healthy detergent specially made for sensitive babies’ skin, fragrance- and dye-free. Additionally, washing babies’ new clothes with these detergents will make them softer and more comfortable for them to wear.

Conclusion:

It is necessary to wash the new clothing at least once, either by hand or in a washing machine, before wearing it. But if you don’t have time to wash your new clothes, sign up with Phoenix Laundry. We will pick up your clothing from your door, properly wash and rinse it, and then deliver it to you at your doorstep, hassle-free.