The myth that new clothes must be washed at 60 degrees
Short answer: New clothes do not need a 60 degree wash to get clean. A wash at 30 or 40 degrees removes excess dye and residues from production, and it is far gentler on fibres, colour and elastic than a hot cycle.
Why you wash new clothes
It is a good idea to wash new clothes before wearing them. During production, shipping and storage they can pick up dust, surplus dye and traces of the finish that gives fabric its sheen and drape in the shop. Clothing worn close to the skin, such as underwear and socks, benefits most from a first wash. The aim is to rinse these things out, not to boil the garments at the highest possible temperature.
What 60 degrees does to fabric
High temperatures weaken elastane, which is found in most socks and a great deal of underwear. Heat can also make viscose shrink and stiffen, and it releases more dye, so dark colours fade faster. Wool and silk can be damaged outright. That is why most modern fabrics carry 30 or 40 degrees on the care label, and there is a good reason behind that recommendation from the manufacturer.
Modern detergent works at low temperatures
In the past, high temperatures were necessary because detergents did not work well in cool water. Today most detergents contain enzymes that work effectively at 30 and 40 degrees. They break down sweat, grease and dirt without harming the fibres. A new pair of bamboo underpants for men will therefore come out perfectly clean at the temperature stated on the label, with no need for a hotter cycle.
When a high temperature makes sense
There are situations where a hot wash is appropriate. Bed linen, tea towels and cotton bath towels often tolerate 60 degrees and can be washed hot, for instance when someone in the household is ill. That is about how the items are used, however, not about whether they are new. Always follow the care label and ask yourself whether the fabric really needs the heat before choosing a hot programme on the machine.
Socks and new colours
New socks in dark colours can release dye during the first few washes. Wash them with similar shades and at a low temperature. Turn them inside out so the surface wears less. This applies to everyday socks as well as bamboo socks for men. If you see colour in the rinse water, that is normal for the first few washes, and it usually fades away after a handful of cycles in the machine.
A simple routine for new clothes
Read the care label and choose the temperature it gives. Sort by colour and wash new dark items on their own the first time. Use a normal dose of detergent and leave out the fabric softener. Let the clothes air dry where possible. With that routine, new clothes come out clean and keep their shape and colour far longer. The same goes for all bamboo socks for men and the rest of your drawer.
Frequently asked questions
Should new underwear always be washed before wearing
It is recommended, because it removes residues from production. An ordinary wash at the temperature on the label is enough.
Does a 40 degree wash kill bacteria
A 40 degree wash with detergent removes most dirt and many bacteria. If you have particular needs because of illness, talk to your doctor about what is recommended.
What should I do if the care label is missing
Choose 30 degrees and a gentle programme. That is the safest choice for most fabrics.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
