Should new clothes be washed before wearing

Short answer: Yes. A wash removes residue from production and transport, and it shows whether the garment shrinks before you decide to keep it. Try it on first, though, because a washed garment can rarely be returned.

The residue

New textiles can contain residue from dyeing and finishing. It sits on the surface and rinses out in the first wash, so a wash is the safe choice if you have sensitive skin. The garment has also been packed, transported and handled by many people before it reached you, and a wash removes that too.

The shrinkage

Measure the garment before and after the first wash, so you know whether the size still fits. A difference of under two centimetres is normal. More than that means the next size is worth considering when you order again. Write the measurements down so you can compare after the next wash. See bamboo t-shirts for men.

What not to do

Do not wash anything you are unsure about keeping. A washed garment can rarely be returned, so try it on first and wash it afterwards. Try it on with the tags still attached, so you can judge the fit without changing anything. Once you have decided to keep it, it is time for the first wash.

How much does bamboo viscose shrink

At thirty degrees, typically very little, but it is not a figure to take for granted. Measure yourself, before and after. Only your own measurements tell you what your particular garment does. Follow the care label, and avoid the tumble dryer and high heat, which make shrinkage greater.

How to wash the first time

Wash new clothes with similar colours and follow the care label. Choose a gentle temperature and no more detergent than necessary. Let the garment dry completely before you use it. The first wash need not differ from the later ones, but it is a good chance to check that colour and shape hold. See bamboo underwear for men.

Does it apply to bedding too

Yes. A wash makes bedding softer and removes residue from production and transport. The same goes for towels and sleepwear, which are in direct contact with the skin for many hours. Wash them before you use them the first time, and check the measurements of sheets and covers too.

What if the colour runs

Wash dark and light colours separately the first time, because a new garment can release a little dye. If it runs a lot, rinse it again until the water is clear. Do not add clothes that cannot take being dyed. It is the simplest way to avoid surprises in the wash.

Women and new clothes

The same goes for clothes for women: try first, then wash, and measure after the wash. A bra or a top may contain elastic that reacts differently to washing, and the fit can change a little. See bamboo clothing for women for the full range.

A simple rule of thumb

Try the garment on first and watch the label. Once you have decided to keep it, measure it, wash it, and measure again. If the difference is under two centimetres, all is well. If it is bigger, consider the next size. With that routine you know what you have, and you avoid washing something you should have sent back.