We’ve all been there. You come home from a shopping spree, rip off the price tag, and throw on your new favorite item.
It looks fresh, it feels clean, and you’re ready to go. But what if that brand-new piece of clothing wasn’t as clean as it looks?
Health authorities are increasingly urging people to wash new clothes before wearing them – and not just for hygiene.
There are more serious risks hiding in the fabric than many realize.
What you can’t see can hurt you
This isn’t just fear-mongering. Infections like ringworm – a highly contagious and itchy fungal infection – can survive in clothing that others have tried on and put back.
Tight clothing in particular can increase the risk, especially if you have small cuts, sweat a lot, or have a weakened immune system.
A British retail worker went viral on TikTok recently after revealing she contracted ringworm just by handling store clothes. Watch the video at the end of the article.
Experts fom The Mayo Clinic also stress the importance of washing clothes before wearing them – especially items that may have been tried on or returned.
Chemicals you never asked for
Even if no one else has worn the item, your new clothes could still be laced with things you don’t want near your skin.
Allergens, chemical dyes, and wrinkle-resistant treatments like formaldehyde can cause allergic reactions or irritation.
And ironically, even anti-bacterial treatments used to prevent odors can themselves be harsh on your skin.
Therefore experts do recommend washing new clothes at least once – preferably up to three times – before use.
Doing so can remove most of the residual chemicals from production and reduce your risk of skin issues.
So next time you treat yourself to something new, make sure the first step is a spin in the washing machine.
This article is based on information from B.T.
This article is made and published by Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk, who may have used AI in the preparation.