Buying a new outfit comes with the thrill of wearing something fresh, but there’s one thing many folks tend to overlook: the possible health issues tied to new garments. With news making rounds about chemical treatments and germs on clothes right off the rack, it’s a hot topic for people who care about both looking good and staying safe.
Chemical treatments on new clothing
New clothes usually go through a process where dyes, finishing agents, and preservatives are applied (all to keep the clothes looking sharp during shipping and on the shelves). These chemicals can sometimes cause skin irritation or allergies in a few individuals. Textile safety expert Nele de Klerk points out that “there is always a kernel of truth” when it comes to chemicals in fresh attire. She also mentions that “not everyone is sensitive to these chemicals, and the vast majority don’t notice anything at all.”
Washing your new clothes before you wear them can help wash away some of those chemical residues. Even if most people don’t have any issues, those with sensitive skin might definitely find this extra step helpful.
Germs on store-bought garments
Another worry with new clothes is that they might pick up germs from previous handlers. Since many people might have touched or tried on the clothing before you buy it, these items can pick up a variety of microbes. According to de Klerk, “everyone carries an enormous variety of microbes on their skin and in their bodies” (mostly harmless and part of our everyday microbial mix).
There aren’t any studies that definitively show diseases transferring from new clothes to us. Our skin acts as a natural barrier and is loaded with friendly microbes that help fight off unwelcome germs. De Klerk reassures us that “it’s pretty unlikely” harmful germs will make the leap from fabric to skin.
Fungal infections: a rare worry
While the chance of catching a fungal infection like ringworm from new clothes is very low, it’s not totally off the table. A British influencer recently claimed to have gotten ringworm after handling new garments. For an infection to kick in, the fungus needs to survive on the fabric long enough to transfer to your skin and set up shop.
Even though this is a rare situation, it does underline the importance of keeping up good personal hygiene—like washing your hands after shopping or laundering new clothes before you wear them.
Perks of washing new clothes
Giving your new clothes a good wash comes with more than just peeling away chemical residues. It significantly lowers the amount of microbes on the fabric. Sure, hot water and detergent might not wipe out every single germ or smudge, but they do a solid job of clearing away a lot of the unwanted stuff.
For many people, washing new clothing brings a sense of comfort. One person even mentioned that a new jacket causing some itching felt completely better after a wash.
Social media heats up concerns
Social media has become a major stage for people to share worries about potential health issues from unwashed new clothing. Posts and stories about folks supposedly getting sick from items straight off the rack have ramped up the buzz, making more and more consumers cautious about what comes in contact with their skin.
Given all these points—from chemical treatments and microbial loads to rare fungal cases and the buzz online—it’s no wonder that understanding the risks tied to brand-new clothes matters a lot to today’s savvy shopper. Simple steps like washing your new finds before wearing them can help keep things safe while still letting you rock your style confidently.
