Should New Clothes Be Washed Before You Wear Them?
Short answer: Yes, always wash new clothes before wearing them, especially underwear, nightwear and anything else worn directly against your skin. New garments can contain traces of dyes and processing chemicals from production, and they have been handled by many hands along the way. A single wash at 30-40 degrees removes most of it.
Why new clothes need a trip through the machine
During production and transport, textiles are treated with processing agents that give them that smooth in-store finish, and excess dye can sit loosely in the fabric. It is rarely dangerous, but it can irritate sensitive skin. If your skin is already delicate, read our post about bamboo clothing for sensitive skin and allergies.
Especially important for clothes worn against the skin
Underwear, socks and nightwear should always be washed first. That also applies to bamboo underwear for men and bamboo underwear for women, even though bamboo clothing from brands with OEKO-TEX certification is tested for harmful substances. The wash removes the last production residue and makes the fabric even softer. New bamboo bedding also becomes more absorbent and comfortable after the first wash.
How to wash new clothes the first time
Wash new coloured garments separately the first time, so any loose dye does not transfer, at 30-40 degrees with a mild detergent. Skip the fabric softener, and air dry. After that the garment can join the normal routine from the complete washing guide for bamboo clothing.
Frequently asked questions
Should new clothes be washed before you wear them?
Yes. A wash removes production residue, loose dye and dirt from transport and try-ons before the garment touches your skin.
Should new bamboo underwear be washed first too?
Yes. Even certified bamboo underwear benefits from a first wash, which removes the last processing agents and makes the fabric softer.
Can new clothes bleed colour?
Yes, strongly coloured and dark garments in particular can release loose dye during the first couple of washes. So wash them separately to begin with.
