Getting new clothes is exciting. Chances are, you can’t wait to wear or try them on. However, doing so before washing them may not be a good idea. You may think that every piece is clean and safe to wear because it’s new—it isn’t. Below are many reasons to take them to the laundry first.   

Why Wash New Clothing Before Wearing Them

Bringing your new clothes to the laundry is essential to avoid irritants that can cause a red, painful, and itchy rash on your skin. By washing them first, you remove the extra dye that can be passed on to your skin and other garments. These loose dyes may result in a severe reaction, especially for those who are highly allergic to them.

Laundering new pieces also get rid of chemical treatments and finishes like urea-formaldehyde, softness enhancers, stain repellents, and color fasteners. They could cause irritation, especially in high-contact regions such as the armpits, collars, waists, and thighs. 

You may also pick up bacteria, fungi, and insects like lice and mites from unwashed clothes, especially those that have been tried on by others. If you don’t want these things transferred to you, put your new garments in the laundry before putting them on.

How to Clean Your New Clothes

Follow the instructions on the care tag to make sure you're washing your clothes the right way. If it says to wash separately on the label, do so to prevent excess dye from bleeding and transferring to other clothing. 

Use a gentle detergent to clean these pieces. If someone in your household has sensitivities to fragrances, choose one that doesn’t have a strong smell. Bring your own detergent if you’re washing clothes in a laundromat. 

Consider putting your freshly laundered clothes under the sun to disinfect them. Even if they’re already dry, leaving them out for a while may remove some of the remaining scents on the fabric.

Include your most recent wardrobe additions on your next laundry day before wearing them. When looking for a local laundromat in Lincoln, NE, head to City Laundry. They have large-capacity washer and dryer machines to ensure your new garments are clean and safe enough to be worn. Call (402) 483-2113 or check out their website.