Why You Must Wash New Clothes Before Wearing Them
Returning from a shopping trip with fresh garments like a graphic t-shirt, jeans, or socks often brings excitement. The immediate urge to wear them without washing might be strong, particularly if you skipped trying them on in-store. However, medical experts strongly advise against this practice, highlighting significant health risks from chemicals, bacteria, and even tiny pests.
"I recommend for everyone to wash their clothes after buying them," stated Dr. Shilpi Khetarpal, a dermatologist at the Cleveland Clinic. Her warning underscores that new clothing can harbour unseen dangers that pose serious threats to your well-being.
Cancer-Causing Chemicals in Fabric Dyes
A primary concern involves the vibrant colours in many garments. New or dark items often contain excess fabric dye that hasn't fully bonded, according to Premier Cleaners. Fast fashion frequently relies on synthetic dyes derived from petroleum, which are being phased out of the U.S. food supply due to links to negative effects on child behaviour.
Azo dyes, a major category used extensively for polyester, are particularly problematic. When made with benzidine, they pose a cancer risk. "Exposure to benzidine-based dyes are of concern to consumers, workers and children because benzidine dyes can be converted in the body into a chemical that is known to cause cancer," the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency explains. These dyes can separate from textiles during prolonged skin contact, increasing exposure.
Another component, p-phenylenediamine, may cause severe dermatitis, eye irritation, asthma, and even renal failure in humans. Additionally, manufacturers sometimes add carcinogenic formaldehyde to prevent wrinkling and mold, which can irritate skin. Forever chemicals in printing inks and waterproof materials also elevate cancer risks.
Heavy Metals Like Lead in Children's Clothing
Heavy metals such as arsenic, cadmium, and chromium are used in textile dyeing and printing processes, all known to cause cancer. A recent study by the American Chemical Society found toxic lead in bright children's clothing exceeding federal standards. "Lead exposure is considered harmful at any level, potentially causing behavior problems, brain and central nervous system damage as well as other negative health effects," the Society noted.
Bacteria and Viruses from Store Try-Ons
It's unpleasant but true: bacteria linger on store-hung clothes. "In fact, a few studies have been done looking at bacteria and viruses lingering on clothes after they have been tried on— fecal bacteria and nasal viruses were commonly found," said Dr. Jami L. Miller of Vanderbilt Health. COVID-19 can survive on fabric for up to three days, with polyester posing the highest transmission risk, while the flu persists for up to 12 hours.
Dr. Stanley Martin of Geisinger Health warns that viruses transferred to hands remain infectious for about five minutes, ample time to spread through touching the face or shaking hands. Common bacteria on new clothing include Staphylococcus and E. coli, as noted by microbiologist Jason Tetro.
Microscopic Pests: Lice, Mites, and Scabies
Beyond bacteria, pests like dust mites, lice, and blood-sucking scabies can infest unwashed garments. "I have seen cases of lice that were possibly transmitted from trying on in the store," reported Dr. Donald Belsito of Columbia University Medical Center. These invaders highlight the importance of laundering new items to eliminate potential health hazards.
In summary, washing new clothes before wearing is a simple yet crucial step to protect against a hidden array of risks, from toxic chemicals to infectious agents.
