The smell in new clothes and where it comes from
Short answer: New clothes smell of packaging, transport and leftovers from production. A single wash almost always removes the smell, and if that does not help you can air the garment outdoors for a day. A sharp smell that stays is not normal.
Where the smell comes from
New clothes often have a smell you know from a parcel that has just been opened. It comes from several links in the chain: the factory, the packaging and the transport. The smell is not a sign that something is wrong with the fabric, but that the garment has not been aired since it was packed.
Plastic, moisture and long transport
Clothes are packed in plastic bags and sit in a container for weeks where no air reaches them. The smell is a mix of plastic, moisture and the chemicals used to make the fabric smooth and glossy during production. The longer the transport, the more the smell settles into the fibers.
How to get rid of it
Wash the garment at 40 degrees with ordinary detergent before you use it. That removes most of the smell, and you also get rid of leftovers from production. It applies to all new clothes, from a single top to a whole wardrobe. See for example bamboo clothing for women, which you can wash right away.
Air the garment outdoors
If washing does not do it fully, hang the garment outdoors for a day, ideally somewhere with a draught and without direct sun. Fresh air pulls the last traces out of the fibers. These two things, washing and airing, solve nearly every case without you buying anything special.
Does vinegar help
Yes, half a cup of white vinegar in the fabric softener compartment neutralizes many smells and can help when one wash is not enough. The vinegar disappears as the clothes dry and leaves no scent. Use it only in the rinse compartment of the washing machine and do not mix it with other products whose effect you do not know.
Why does dark clothing smell more
Dark clothing often smells stronger than light, because more dye has been used and the dye residue smells the most. It is especially clear in black and navy. Wash dark pieces separately the first time so dye residue does not rub off on light items and so the smell fades faster.
When the smell stays
A sharp, chemical smell that is still there after two washes and airing is not normal. Then something is wrong with the batch, and you should make a claim. If you want to know more about what is tested in clothing, read about Oeko-Tex certified products.
Underwear and skin
Underwear sits close to the skin, so always wash it before you use it. If you have sensitive skin and react to new clothes, talk to your doctor about what the cause may be. See bamboo underwear for men, which you should also wash before the first wear.
Is the smell dangerous
The smell is not dangerous in itself, but it is a sign of residues that should be washed out before you wear the garment. Do not breathe in the clothes when you open the bag, and air the room if the smell is strong. If it stays after washing and airing, there is reason to contact the seller.
Frequently asked questions
Is the smell dangerous
No, but it is a sign of residues that should be washed out before use. Wash the garment at 40 degrees, air it, and contact the seller if the smell stays.
Does vinegar help
Yes, half a cup of white vinegar in the fabric softener compartment neutralizes many smells and disappears as the clothes dry. Use it only in the rinse compartment and not together with other products.
Why does dark clothing smell more
Because more dye has been used, and the dye residue smells the most. Wash dark pieces separately the first time so the smell fades faster and the color does not rub off.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
