Myth, new clothes must always be washed before wearing

Short answer: It is a good habit, but not a rule for everything. For clothes worn directly against the skin, washing first makes sense. For an outer layer that does not touch the skin, it matters less.

Why the advice exists

New clothes have been through dyeing, finishing, packing and shipping before they reach you. Along the way, residues can remain on the surface of the fabric, and that is what the advice to wash first is about. It is sensible advice, but not equally important for every garment. What matters is how close the item sits to your skin and how sensitive your skin is.

Wash clothes worn against the skin first

Residues from dyeing and finishing sit on the surface and rinse out in the first wash. This applies especially to clothes worn close to the body all day, such as underwear, tank tops and T-shirts. Your skin is in direct contact with the fabric for many hours, so washing before wearing is a good idea, see bamboo tank top for men.

Outer layers can wait

A hoodie or sweater worn over another layer rarely touches the skin directly. Here a first wash matters less, because the inner layer sits in between. You can wear it straight away and wash it with your next regular load. That saves water, power and needless wear on the fabric, see bamboo T-shirts for men.

Sensitive skin is the exception

If your skin reacts easily, wash everything new before wearing it, outer layers included. Finishing residues are the most common cause of itching in new clothes, and one wash removes most of them. A mild, unscented detergent is a good choice. If the discomfort continues, talk to your doctor, see socks for men.

Dark colours can bleed

New clothes in dark or strong colours may release a little dye in the first few washes. Wash them separately or with similar colours at first. This matters most if light trousers, pale bedding or a light sofa cover will come into contact with the fabric. After a few washes the colour usually settles.

How to wash new clothes the first time

Follow the care label and choose a low temperature and a gentle cycle. Turn items inside out and do not fill the drum completely, so everything rinses properly. An extra rinse can help if your skin is sensitive. Dry the clothes on a hanger or drying rack so they keep their shape from the start.

New clothes feel different after one wash

Many people notice that new clothes get a little softer after the first wash, as the surface relaxes and any residues rinse out. The fit can also settle slightly. That is normal and one more reason to wash clothes worn against the skin first. You then know how the item feels in daily life from the first time you wear it.

If you might return it

Decide whether you want to keep the item before you wash it. Many shops only accept unworn and unwashed clothes as returns. Try it on over your own underwear, check the fit in a mirror, and make up your mind before it goes in the machine. Once you are sure, wash it and start wearing it.

Frequently asked questions

Should you always wash new clothes before wearing them

For clothes worn against the skin, yes. For outer layers that do not touch the skin directly it matters less, unless your skin is sensitive.

Why wash new clothes

To remove residues from dyeing and finishing, which are the most common cause of itching in new clothes and usually rinse out in the first wash.

What if you do not have time

Then wash the item after its first wear. If your skin is sensitive, you should always wash first, even if it means waiting a day.