Are you used to putting on your new clothes straight away? This is a mistake! And you should put them in the washing machine first, because new textiles are much dirtier than they look…
As you unwrap your Christmas presents, you are surprised to discover this item of clothing you dreamed of so much. Back home, the excitement is such that you put it on immediately, without going through the wash box. After all, it is new and has never been worn by another person! But if the reflex of washing your new clothes before putting them on seems superfluous to some, it nevertheless turns out to be essential. This precautionary gesture can avoid many disappointments.
In reality, the journey of a garment, from its manufacture to your wardrobe, is long and each step exposes textiles to various contaminants. It all starts at the factory, where they undergo a series of chemical treatments. The National Health Safety Agency (ANSES) has already noted the presence of suspect products which help to fix colors, prevent creasing or even limit mold during storage. In particular, it noted chromium, nickel, lead and even azo dyes.
Their presence, although legal, can be problematic for sensitive skin. Without prior washing, these chemical residues come into direct contact with your skin, and can then cause irritation and skin reactions, such as eczema, in certain people.
Some of these substances, such as nonylphenols, are also endocrine disruptors which impact the hormonal system and fertility. A study on synthetic clothing, particularly those made of polyester, even reveals the frequent presence of quinoline, a compound used in fabric dyeing and which is classified by the Environmental Protection Agency in the United States as potentially carcinogenic. Just that!
But that’s not the only problem. Indeed, new clothes travel long distances, often piled up in containers or warehouses where hygienic conditions sometimes leave much to be desired. Fabrics can be exposed to dust, moisture, or even rodents and their droppings. A study highlights that certain textiles contain traces of rat urine… Result: clothes accumulate a cocktail of germs and bacteria throughout their journey.
In stores, the situation does not improve. Before ending up in your basket, the clothes have been tried on by other customers – and we’re not talking about three or four, but dozens! According to microbiological analyses, it is common to find fecal matter, viruses or microorganisms from human skin on textiles. Although most are harmless, some can cause skin infections – skin irritation, lice, fungus, etc. –, particularly on weakened skin. Wearing new clothing without having washed it potentially exposes your body to a cocktail of chemical and microbiological residues.
Faced with these risks, washing after purchase must become a reflex. This simple and quick step eliminates unwanted substances accumulated throughout the production and distribution chain. The next time you come home with a new piece, resist the temptation to put it on immediately. Take the time to clean it: this little effort will allow you to enjoy your purchases with peace of mind and without risking your health.