The holiday season often brings gifts of clothing, but experts are urging recipients to wash new garments before wearing them. While the debate over whether to launder items straight away has divided shoppers for years, most specialists now agree that a quick wash is the safer option.
Frances Kozen, a senior lecturer in fibre science at Cornell University, told Real Simple that washing removes 'processing chemicals, excess dye, and dirt from all of the handling during production.' She added that garments typically pass through many hands, often across multiple countries, which can leave traces that may irritate sensitive skin.
A 2020 study found that bacteria and viruses can survive on certain fabrics for days or even weeks. Dr Jami L. Miller, associate professor of dermatology at Vanderbilt Health, told Southern Living that shoppers 'never know who tried on the garment before you bought it,' noting that research has uncovered faecal bacteria and nasal viruses on tried-on clothing, as well as lice, scabies and bed bugs. However, she stressed that it is 'extremely rare' to become ill from new clothing or bedding.
Beyond potential germs, unwashed items can transfer excess dye onto furniture or skin, particularly brightly coloured pieces such as red sweaters and dark-wash jeans. Washing beforehand can also help garments last longer, provided the right settings are used.
Nomi Dale Kleinman, chair of the textile and surface design department at the Fashion Institute of Technology, recommends washing in cold water and drying on low heat or hanging clothes to dry, which reduces shrinkage and extends the life of the product.
