The Importance of Washing New Clothes: Why You Should Always Wash New Clothes Before Wearing.

When we purchase new clothes, excitement often tempts us to wear them right away. However, wearing new clothes without washing them can have serious implications for skin health. New clothes often contain various chemicals that can irritate the skin and pose health risks. In this post, we will explore the major chemicals found in new clothes, their dangers, and the correct washing methods to avoid them.

 

Washing new clothes is a simple process but a vital habit for safeguarding our health.

 

Formaldehyde: The Invisible Threat

Formaldehyde is one of the common chemicals found in new clothes. It is used to prevent wrinkles and inhibit mold growth, particularly in wrinkle-free shirts and pants. Formaldehyde reacts with the cellulose in fabric to cross-link fibers, making the clothes resistant to wrinkles.

 

Formaldehyde is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the World Health Organization (WHO). Even small amounts (1-5 ppm) in the air can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, causing symptoms like burning sensation and nausea. Prolonged exposure increases the risk of leukemia and lung cancer. Research from the National Cancer Center suggests that formaldehyde can directly irritate the skin, leading to various skin disorders.

 

Azo dyes: Hidden Skin Irritants

Azo dyes used as dyes in new clothes are another concern. They are commonly used in sportswear and outdoor clothing for their elasticity and waterproof properties. Azo dyes can easily be absorbed through the skin, especially in areas prone to sweating or friction.

 

Azo dyes can cause itching, inflammation, and even allergic reactions on the skin. These symptoms are more pronounced in areas where sweating is common, such as the neck and underarms. Even denim jeans can contain azo dyes, which during the fading process can cause burns, blisters, and itching if they come into contact with the skin. Particularly, sodium hypochlorite used in the bleaching process of denim jeans can cause severe irritation if it comes into contact with the skin or eyes.

 

Washing New Clothes: The Right Method and Why

After purchasing new clothes, it is crucial to wash them before wearing. It is recommended to wash them at least twice. The first wash may not remove all residual chemicals due to the complexity of chemical treatments, especially in thick fabrics like denim jeans, where washing three times or more is recommended.

 

Using warm water for washing is advisable as it helps effectively remove chemical residues. If clothes still have odors or cause skin irritation after washing, further washing is recommended.

 

Additional Preventive Measures

To minimize chemical residues when washing new clothes, consider these additional precautions.

 

• Rinse thoroughly after washing to ensure no chemical residue remains.
• Air-dry washed clothes in a well-ventilated area to facilitate evaporation of chemicals.
• Use organic detergents with fewer chemicals to minimize skin irritation.

 

 

Conclusion: Small Practices for Health

Wearing new clothes without washing them poses serious risks to skin health. Chemicals like formaldehyde and azo dyes can irritate the skin, cause allergic reactions, and in severe cases, act as carcinogens. Therefore, washing new clothes at least twice before wearing is crucial to remove chemical residues and maintain healthy skin.

 

Washing new clothes is a simple process but a vital habit for safeguarding our health. Remember to follow these steps each time you purchase new clothes. Small actions for healthy skin and a safe life can lead to significant changes.