As the festive season brings a flurry of new clothing gifts, experts are issuing a stark reminder about a crucial pre-wear ritual many often skip. The debate over whether to launder new garments before wearing them has finally been settled by health and textile specialists, who unanimously advise a precautionary wash.
The Hidden Dangers in Your New Wardrobe
Germs and bacteria can survive on fabrics for days or even weeks, according to a 2020 study highlighted by dermatologists. This creates potential health risks when wearing items that may have been tried on by previous shoppers.
Dr. Jami L. Miller, Associate Professor of Dermatology at Vanderbilt Health, explained the concerning reality to Southern Living: "You never know who tried on the garment before you bought it, so you don't know about germs on their skin, nose, mouth."
Dr. Miller revealed that research has identified common contaminants on tried-on clothing, including fecal bacteria and nasal viruses. More alarmingly, she noted that "lice, scabies, and even bed bugs can also live on clothing for a few days."
Beyond Germs: Chemical and Dye Concerns
Frances Kozen, senior lecturer in fiber science at Cornell University, emphasised another critical reason for pre-washing. She told Real Simple that she typically washes before wearing "to remove processing chemicals, excess dye, and dirt from all of the handling during production."
"Textiles and garments have passed through many hands, often in multiple countries," Kozen added. This extensive journey means clothing accumulates various substances that could trigger skin reactions, especially in people with sensitivities.
Brightly coloured items like red sweaters and dark-wash jeans pose additional risks. Their dyes can transfer to furniture or even skin when worn without washing first.
Practical Laundry Advice for New Garments
While the health risks might sound alarming, Dr. Miller clarified that becoming seriously ill from new clothing remains "extremely rare." However, the consensus among experts strongly favours taking the simple precaution of washing first.
Nomi Dale Kleinman, chair of the textile/surface design department at the Fashion Institute of Technology, offered practical washing guidance to Real Simple readers. "If you want to extend the life of a product and reduce shrinkage, I suggest washing in cold water and drying on low or hang-drying clothes," she recommended.
This approach not only addresses health concerns but actually helps preserve your new clothing investments. Using excessively hot water or high dryer heat can warp garments before you've even had a chance to wear them properly.
The message from experts is clear: that extra laundry cycle before wearing new clothes isn't just about freshness—it's a simple step that protects both your health and your wardrobe investments.
