Washing new underwear before wearing it might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it’s an important step that shouldn’t be overlooked. Here’s a closer look at why it’s beneficial to wash your new underwear before wearing it:
Potential Germs and Bacteria
When you purchase new underwear, it often looks clean and ready to wear straight out of the package. However, these items have likely been handled by many people before they reach you. From factory workers to store employees, and even other shoppers who might have touched or tried on the underwear, there is a high chance of germ transfer. These germs and bacteria can linger on the fabric and potentially cause skin irritations or infections if not removed. Washing your new underwear helps to eliminate these potential health hazards and ensures that they are clean before coming into contact with your skin.
New garments often travel through many hands and environments before they reach you. From the manufacturing facility to the distribution center and finally to the store, your new underwear could have been exposed to numerous sources of germs and bacteria. These microorganisms can linger on the fabric, posing a risk to your health. Washing your new underwear ensures that any harmful bacteria or germs are removed, protecting you from potential infections and skin irritations.
Chemical Residue
During the manufacturing process, underwear is often treated with various chemicals such as dyes, fabric softeners, and preservatives like formaldehyde to prevent mildew and wrinkles during shipping and storage. However, they can also cause skin irritation, especially in sensitive areas. Washing new underwear helps remove these chemical residues, reducing the risk of skin irritation and allergic reactions. It’s important to note that even natural fibers like cotton can be treated with chemicals, so washing is essential regardless of the fabric type.
The chemicals used in the production and finishing processes of fabrics are designed to improve the appearance and durability of the clothing, but they are not meant to be in prolonged contact with your skin. Washing your new underwear helps to remove these substances, making the fabric safer and more comfortable to wear. This is particularly important for those with sensitive skin or allergies, as they may be more susceptible to reactions caused by these chemicals.
Dust and Dirt
New underwear might have been stored in warehouses and retail environments where dust and dirt can accumulate. These particles may not be visible, but they can cause discomfort and skin issues when wearing the underwear. Washing them removes any dust and dirt, ensuring your underwear is fresh and clean. Storage facilities can be dusty places, and clothes often sit on shelves or in bins for extended periods before being purchased. Even packaged underwear can collect dust and dirt during storage and transport. Washing new underwear before the first wear helps ensure that any residual dust and dirt are eliminated, providing a clean start.
Trying On in Stores
Despite the common practice of using protective liners, there’s still a possibility that someone might have tried on the underwear in the store. This can introduce bodily fluids, sweat, and bacteria to the fabric, posing a health risk. Washing new underwear ensures that any potential contaminants from previous try-ons are removed. This practice helps to minimize the risk of exposure to these contaminants, providing a hygienic experience. It’s especially important for items that have been on display or in close contact with other clothing.
How to Properly Wash New Underwear
By Hand
- Prepare the Water: Fill a sink or bucket with cool water and add a mild detergent. Cool water helps prevent color bleeding and fabric damage.
- Soak: Place the underwear in the water and let it soak for 10-15 minutes. This soaking period allows the detergent to penetrate the fabric and loosen any dirt or chemicals.
- Wash: Gently agitate and rub the fabric to remove any dirt and chemicals. Be gentle to avoid stretching or damaging the fabric.
- Rinse: Rinse thoroughly with cold water until all soap is removed. Ensuring all detergent is rinsed out prevents skin irritation.
- Dry: Hang the underwear to air dry. Avoid using a dryer, as heat can damage the fabric. Air drying helps maintain the shape and elasticity of the underwear.
By Washing Machine
- Sort and Prepare: Sort your underwear by color and fabric type. Place them in a mesh laundry bag for extra protection. This prevents tangling and potential damage from other garments.
- Detergent and Cycle: Use a mild detergent and set the washing machine to a gentle cycle with cold or warm water. Mild detergents are less likely to cause skin irritation and are gentler on fabrics.
- Wash: Run the wash cycle. If necessary, repeat for heavily soiled areas.
- Dry: Remove the underwear from the machine and air dry them. Avoid the dryer to preserve the fabric integrity and prevent shrinkage.
Washing your new underwear before wearing it is a simple but important step to ensure they are clean, safe, and comfortable. It helps protect you from potential skin irritants and health issues, making it a wise practice to adopt. This routine ensures your new underwear is fresh, free of chemicals, and ready for comfortable wear.
