SAEDNEWS: Washing new clothes before wearing them can remove residues, dust, and substances left from manufacturing, handling, or storage, making the first wear more comfortable.
According to SAEDNEWS, washing newly purchased clothes before wearing them is generally a sensible hygiene habit, especially for garments that sit directly against the skin. Although new clothing may look clean, it can have been handled by workers and shoppers or stored and transported for some time before reaching your home.
New garments may carry small amounts of dust, manufacturing residues, dyes, or finishing substances used during textile production. They may also have been touched by several people during manufacturing, packaging, transportation, or retail handling. Washing helps remove many of these surface substances before the fabric comes into prolonged contact with the skin.
This is particularly relevant for underwear, sleepwear, children's clothes, and other garments worn close to the body. People with sensitive skin may also prefer washing new clothing first to reduce potential irritation.
A first wash is especially practical for:
Underwear and other close-fitting garments
Children's and babies' clothes
Pajamas and sleepwear
T-shirts and other garments worn directly against the skin
Towels and washable fabric accessories
For coats, jackets, or other outer layers that do not touch much of the skin, washing before the first use may be less necessary. However, care instructions should always be checked because some fabrics require special cleaning methods.
Before washing a new garment, check its care label and follow the recommended temperature and cleaning method. If possible, separate strongly colored garments from lighter clothing during the first wash to reduce the chance of color transfer.
Avoid using excessive detergent simply because the garment is new. The appropriate amount depends on the product instructions, load size, and water conditions. After washing, dry the garment according to its care label.
Washing new clothes does not mean they are necessarily unsafe before laundering. Rather, it is a straightforward way to remove surface residues and handling-related contaminants before the first regular wear.
