The Bloop crew knows that the holidays are a time for giving, and there’s nothing like receiving new clothes as a gift! But before you slip into your fresh, festive outfits, you might wonder: Should you wash them first?
While it's tempting to wear that cozy sweater or trendy scarf right away, it's a good idea to give your new clothes a quick wash. Here’s why:
- Chemicals and Residue: New clothes often contain chemicals like formaldehyde, which can irritate your skin. A wash helps remove these residues.
- Bacteria and Germs: From factory floors to shipping, your clothes can pick up unwanted germs. Washing them ensures they're clean and fresh for wear.
- Softness and Comfort: Some fabrics, especially cotton, can feel stiff out of the box. A wash softens them up for maximum comfort.
- Prevent Color Bleeding: Brightly colored clothes can bleed dye. Washing new clothes separately helps prevent any color transfer.
How to Wash New Clothes
Now that you know why washing is a good idea, here’s how to do it safely, so your new gift stays in top condition:
1. Check the Care Label
Always read the care label on the garment before washing. This will tell you the recommended water temperature, washing instructions, and whether the fabric is suitable for machine washing or needs to be hand-washed or dry cleaned.
2. Separate Colors
Before throwing new clothes into the washer, separate them by color. Dark colors like navy, red, and black may bleed in the wash, so it’s important to wash them separately from lighter-colored garments. You can also use a color-catching sheet to prevent any accidental color transfer.
3. Use a Gentle Laundry Soap
New clothes often have a stronger chemical smell, so use a gentle, hypoallergenic laundry soap like Bloop for the first wash. This will help get rid of any residue while being kind to the fabric.
4. Wash Delicates Separately
If your new gift is made from delicate materials like silk, lace, or wool, be sure to wash them separately on a delicate cycle or hand wash them. Using a mesh laundry bag can also help protect delicate fabrics from snags and damage.
5. Air Dry When Possible
To avoid shrinking or stretching, air-dry your new clothes by laying them flat or hanging them up. If the garment is machine washable and needs a dryer, use a low heat setting to prevent any damage to the fabric.
In the spirit of the holidays, taking a few minutes to freshen up your new clothes will ensure they look great, feel comfy, and are ready for you to enjoy. Happy holidays and happy washing!
Be sure to head over to heybloop.com for stocking stuffers and learn more about our small batch, concentrated, natural laundry soap that features amazing scents!
