The primary and essential step to take with new clothes is to wash them before wearing.
Why Washing New Clothes is Essential
Based on expert advice, washing new clothes is crucial for several important reasons:
- Germ Removal: It's essential to wash new clothes to cleanse them of any germs that could be present. Clothes pass through many hands during manufacturing, packaging, and shipping.
- Chemical & Irritant Elimination: It's also important to rid the materials of any harsh chemicals that could irritate the skin. These can include dyes, sizing agents, and finishes used during the production process.
- Preventing Dye Transfer: Lastly, washing new clothes removes extra dye that can transfer onto other materials, including your skin, furniture, or other clothing items in the wash.
Washing helps ensure the fabric is clean, safe for your skin, and ready to wear without potential issues like irritation or color bleeding.
Practical Tips for Washing New Clothes
To get the best results when washing your new garments:
- Check the Label: Always look at the care tag for specific washing instructions (temperature, cycle type, drying method).
- Wash Separately: Especially for bright or dark colors, consider washing new items separately for the first wash to prevent dye transfer onto other clothes.
- Use Appropriate Detergent: Choose a detergent suitable for the fabric type and color.
- Cold Water: Often, washing in cold water is sufficient for the first wash and helps preserve color.
Taking these simple steps ensures your new additions are clean, comfortable, and safe from the start.