Should you wash new clothes before wearing them? You might want to think twice, especially after hearing stories about people getting sick just by touching fresh garments. From concerns about leftover chemicals to catching infections, many social media users warn that skipping a wash can cause serious health issues. But how much truth is there to these alarming claims? We turned to microbial expert Nele de Klerk of Artis-Micropia to find out.
Why some new clothes carry chemical risks
It’s no secret that new clothes often come straight from factories where they’re treated with a host of chemicals. These substances help keep the fabric looking sharp during shipping and shelf time. Sometimes, these are dyes, finishing agents, or preservatives designed to protect the material.
According to Nele de Klerk, “there is always a kernel of truth” behind concerns about chemicals in new clothing. Some people might react with skin irritation or allergies to these substances. If you’ve ever felt itchy or noticed a rash after putting on a brand-new shirt or pair of pants, you’re not alone. Washing new clothes before wearing them can help remove many of these chemical residues.
However, the good news is that most people won’t face any problems. “Not everyone is sensitive to these chemicals, and the vast majority don’t notice anything at all,” De Klerk adds. This means the risks are mostly limited to those with sensitive skin or specific allergies.
Can new clothes carry germs that make you sick?
One of the most common fears on social media is catching bacteria, viruses, or fungi from trying on or wearing new clothes that others have handled. The reality is more complex and less scary than it sounds.
“Everyone carries an enormous variety of microbes on their skin and in their bodies,” De Klerk explains. Clothes can indeed pick up these microbes from people who have touched or tried them on. So technically, new clothes might have microbes from others on them.
But does this mean illness is likely? De Klerk couldn’t find studies proving that disease can be passed from new clothes to a person. “It’s pretty unlikely. Most microbes are harmless or part of the normal microbial communities we all live with,” she says.
Our skin acts as a natural fortress loaded with friendly microbes that protect us. Any new germs on clothes would need to compete with our existing microbial defenders and find a way inside our bodies. In most cases, this is a tough challenge for them.
Understanding the risk of fungal infections like ringworm
The story of a British influencer who claimed she got ringworm simply by touching new clothes has made waves online. Could this really happen?
Ringworm, a common fungal infection, can survive on surfaces, including fabric, but De Klerk believes the risk of catching it from new clothes is very low. The fungus would have to survive on the garment, transfer to the skin, and then successfully infect it. While none of these steps is impossible, the chance is slim.
Still, if you want peace of mind, washing your clothes before wearing them can reduce any leftover microbes or chemicals. Hot water and detergent won’t kill everything, but they do remove many germs and dirt. And even for those who aren’t worried about contamination, washing fresh clothes feels good—like giving yourself a little shield before facing the world.
I remember once buying a cute new jacket at a boutique. It looked perfect, but after slipping it on, my skin itched like crazy. Washing it before the next outing saved me from an uncomfortable rash. From that experience, I learned it’s worth taking a few extra minutes to wash new garments, especially if you have sensitive skin.
What do you think? Have you ever experienced a reaction to new clothes, or do you always wash everything first? Share your thoughts and stories below! And if this made you rethink your laundry routine, why not pass it on to a friend who might need to hear it?