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Do you really need to wash new clothes before wearing?
You bought a new dress for tonight’s party. Wrong. Because now you don’t have time to wash it anymore. And that is sorely needed…
1. You are not the first
How many (unwashed) hands has your garment gone through – in the factory, during packing, transport, unpacking and when it hangs in the store – before it hangs in your closet? And who guarantees you that your new blouse, dress or pants have not already been worn by someone else? It has probably already been tried on by a potential buyer or it has been bought and then returned. Even if all those human hands and bodies were reasonably clean, nasty bacteria and viruses can easily live in your new garment.
2. How dirty is that?
The popular American TV show Good Morning America bought 14 different pieces of clothing from chain stores and had them examined by Dr. Philip Tierno, director of microbiology and immunology at New York University. Tierno found mucus, skin bacteria, vaginal discharge, yeasts and even feces (which in turn can contain bacteria and viruses). Some garments were simply infested with such microorganisms, much more than you would normally expect. And although the chance that unwashed new clothes will make you sick, the risk is there.
3. And then there are the chemicals
Last year, the French National Agency for the Safety of Food, Environment and Labor (ANSES) also warned against unwashed new clothes. Research has shown that as many as one fifth of all garments contain skin-irritating, toxic or carcinogenic substances. Chemicals, such as dyes, are not only used in the production process, but also in transport. These should protect the clothing against insects and fungi, and prevent the fabric from wrinkling. Mentioned are the harmful substances nonylphenol, benzidine, chromium, formaldehyde and nickel. You should definitely be careful with bright orange clothing, because it can also contain lead chromate.
4. In short: washing is a must
Some of those chemicals can cause skin irritations, such as eczema, redness, itching and a burning sensation. You should of course avoid carcinogens as much as possible. Just like disease-causing microorganisms. Fortunately, a simple wash will clear most of the chemicals down the drain. Then dry well in the dryer and then you will also be rid of any harmful micro-organisms. Another tip: it is better to put on an item of clothing that you can try on over your own clothes in the store to avoid skin contact. And… wash your hands after shopping.
This article previously appeared in the November 2019 issue of +healthy.
Sources):
- Plus Healthy