Yes, it is generally recommended to wash Shein clothes. Washing new garments, especially from fast fashion brands, is a beneficial practice to reduce exposure to various chemicals, dyes, and finishes used during the manufacturing process.
Why Wash New Shein Clothes?
New clothes, regardless of the brand, can carry residual substances from their production. For Shein items, specifically, washing them before wearing can offer several advantages:
- Dilute Dyes and Chemicals: Washing the garments will help dilute some of the residual dyes and chemicals present on the fabric. This dilution may help reduce direct skin exposure to these substances, which could otherwise cause irritation or allergic reactions.
- Remove Manufacturing Residue: Clothes often pass through numerous hands and processes during manufacturing, packaging, and shipping. Washing helps remove dust, dirt, and any other residue that may have accumulated.
- Improve Comfort: Washing can soften the fabric and remove any stiff finishes, making the clothing more comfortable to wear.
It's important to note that while washing helps, it may not eliminate all potentially harmful substances, such as heavy metals like lead, if they are present in the garment's dyes or materials. However, it's still a recommended first step for safety and hygiene.
Best Practices for Washing Shein Clothes
Given the variety of materials and designs found in Shein's extensive collection, following general garment care advice and paying attention to specific item details is crucial.
Check Care Labels
Always start by looking for a care label inside the garment. While fast fashion labels can sometimes be generic, they offer a starting point for recommended washing temperatures, cycles, and drying methods.
General Washing Tips
If a care label is missing or unclear, these general tips can help preserve your Shein items and maximize cleanliness:
- Wash Before Wearing: Always wash new Shein clothes before their first wear. This is the most effective way to immediately reduce exposure to surface chemicals and dyes.
- Separate Colors: To prevent dye transfer, wash dark colors, lights, and whites separately, especially during the first few washes. Shein items are known for vibrant dyes that can bleed.
- Use Cold Water: Washing in cold water is generally safer for preserving colors and preventing shrinking, especially with synthetic blends common in fast fashion.
- Gentle Cycle: Opt for a gentle or delicate cycle to protect the fabric and any embellishments, such as sequins, beads, or prints, which can be fragile.
- Mild Detergent: Use a mild, dye-free, and fragrance-free detergent to minimize skin irritation and preserve fabric integrity.
- Turn Garments Inside Out: This can help protect prints, delicate fabrics, and reduce fading.
- Air Dry When Possible: Many Shein items, particularly those made from synthetic materials like polyester, rayon, or blends, benefit from air drying. High heat from a dryer can damage elasticity, cause shrinking, or affect printed designs. If machine drying, use a low heat setting.
- Avoid Bleach: Bleach can damage fabric fibers and cause colors to fade or become discolored.
Common Shein Fabric Types and Care
Shein clothes are often made from synthetic blends. Here's a quick guide for common materials:
| Fabric Type | Recommended Care |
|---|---|
| Polyester | Machine wash cold, gentle cycle. Tumble dry low or hang dry. Avoid high heat. |
| Rayon/Viscose | Hand wash cold or machine wash cold on delicate cycle. Do not wring. Lay flat to dry or hang. |
| Cotton Blend | Machine wash cold or warm. Tumble dry low or medium. Check for shrinkage, air dry if concerned. |
| Knits/Sweaters | Hand wash cold or machine wash delicate with cold water. Lay flat to dry to prevent stretching. |
| Delicates (Lace, Silk-like) | Hand wash cold with mild detergent. Do not wring. Roll in a towel to absorb excess water, then lay flat to dry. |
The Importance of Proper Clothing Care
Properly washing your Shein clothes not only contributes to your comfort and health but also helps extend the life of the garments. While fast fashion is known for its affordability, taking good care of the clothes you purchase can contribute to more sustainable consumption by reducing how often you need to replace items.
