Laundry Fun Facts & Laundry Tips & Tricks

Laundry Tip: Why You Really Should Wash New Clothes Before Wearing them

November 04, 2025

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We’ve all been there, the new shirt you ordered online just came in, and you can’t wait to put it on…  You might have a little voice on your shoulder telling you to wash it first, but you saw it come out of the bag, so it must be clean right?  Unfortunately, that is not always the case.  In today’s article we’ll discuss why it’s actually a good idea to give those new clothes a wash.  Not only for your health, but for the health of your garment as well!

 

The Journey of Clothing Comes with Some Unexpected Baggage.

Even though that hot new top may look spotless, there’s no denying it came a long way to reach your doorstep.  Along the way, it’s likely they've picked up anything from:

  • Dust.

  • Lint.

  • Residue or oils from Packaging.

  • Or even chemicals to give it a “crisp” look.

A simple cycle can wash away any of these pesky passengers.  Not to mention some of these chemicals can cause rashes or irritations.

 

It Helps Preserve Color.

Washing new garments can “set” the dyes in garments, especially when they’re brand new.  This will ensure the colors will be better for a longer amount of time.  Clothes that have been pre-washed are also way less likely to “rub off” onto unintended surfaces.  It can be handy to also wash new clothes separately from your normal clothes, preventing pink socks just in case.

 

It Feels More Comfortable.

Clothing companies will most likely use a variety of setting chemicals or coatings, this can make them look nice, but also feel stiff and uncomfortable. A simple wash cycle helps to remove static, loosen fibers and most importantly smell better than whatever shipping journey it took.

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