So is it necessary or not. You should know this.
Why You Should Wash New Clothes Before Wearing Them
Wearing new clothes straight from the store might seem harmless, but there are several important reasons why giving them a good wash first is a smart (and healthy) habit.
1. Chemical Residue from Manufacturing
What happens:
New clothes often contain residues from dyes, formaldehyde, and other finishing agents used during manufacturing. These chemicals help fabrics resist wrinkling, shrinkage, and mildew during shipping, but they can irritate the skin, especially on children and babies.
Risk:
- Skin rashes
- Allergic reactions
- Respiratory irritation (in sensitive individuals)
2. Transfer of Germs and Bacteria
What happens:
Before clothes reach your hands, they pass through many hands — factory workers, packers, delivery people, store staff, and customers trying them on. That means your “brand new” clothes could carry bacteria, viruses, and even lice or fungi from handling or trying-on sessions in stores.
Risk:
- Skin infections
- Fungal outbreaks (like athlete’s foot from new socks or underwear)
- Lice or scabies (in rare cases)
3. Irritation from Fabric Dyes and Sizing Agents
What happens:
Many clothes — especially brightly colored or black garments — are treated with azo dyes or sizing agents to improve appearance. These substances can rub off onto skin and cause itchiness, rashes, or eczema, particularly in those with sensitive skin or allergies.
Risk:
- Red, itchy patches
- Contact dermatitis
- Eye or nasal irritation
4. Infant and Children’s Sensitivity
What happens:
Children have more delicate and permeable skin. Their immune systems are also still developing. New clothing that seems fine to an adult might still cause irritation or allergic reactions in kids.
Risk:
- Hives or swelling
- Difficulty sleeping due to skin discomfort
- Exposure to harmful chemicals during a critical stage of development
5. Pesticides from Storage and Shipping
What happens:
To prevent pest infestations during overseas shipping or long-term warehouse storage, some clothing shipments are treated with insecticides or antifungal agents. Washing helps remove any traces that may remain on the fabric.
Risk:
- Inhalation risk for sensitive people
- Skin reactions from prolonged contact
6. Strong Chemical Smell = Warning Sign
What happens:
That “new clothes smell” might seem pleasant or just part of the shopping experience — but it’s often a mix of formaldehyde and other volatile chemicals. If clothes have a strong odor out of the bag, that’s a sign they need washing before they hit your skin.
✅ So, What Should You Do?
- Wash clothes once (or twice) before wearing, especially underwear, socks, kids’ clothing, and anything that touches sensitive areas.
- Use a gentle, fragrance-free detergent for baby and children’s clothes.
- If the item has strong chemical smells, air it out first or soak in water before washing.
While new clothes may look pristine, they’ve had a long journey — and not always a clean one. Washing them first is a simple, protective step that ensures you and your family are safer, especially the little ones.