Should You Wash New Underwear Before Wearing?

When you buy a new pack of underwear, do you wash them before wearing them or just throw them on right out of the package? This is a debate many people have – is it necessary to wash men’s underwear before that first wear or is it okay to just start sporting them fresh from the store?

I used to be in the camp of rip-and-wear. When I brought home a new pack of underwear, I would tear open the plastic and put them on. After all, they looked clean and untouched – why go through the hassle of washing brand-new underwear?

Why should you wash new underwear?

Chemical Residues

Underwear, especially men’s underwear goes through a lot during the manufacturing and packaging process. Many chemicals are used along the way, including formaldehyde for preservation, pesticides for cotton growth, and chemical softeners and brighteners. Traces of these chemicals can be left behind on the fabric. Wash your new undies before wearing them to rid them of any potentially irritating residues.

Dye Transfer

Dark and brightly colored underwear often contain excess dye that can run and stain your skin on first wear. Give them a quick wash to set the color and prevent any embarrassing dye-transfer marks on your body. This is especially important for red and black underwear.

Sizing and Finishing Chemicals

Chemicals like starch, silicone, and polyvinyl alcohol are commonly used to give underwear shape and structure. However, they can make fabric feel stiff and rough until washed away. Give your new undies a cleansing rinse so they feel soft against your skin.

Germs from Handling

Your underwear goes through many hands during production and packaging. Despite being new, they aren’t guaranteed to be germ-free. Washing new underwear removes any bacteria or viruses lingering from handling and storage. This prevents the risk of transferring any pathogens to your body.

Quality Assurance

Washing new underwear before wearing allows you to check quality. Look for any defects like holes, stitching issues, or color bleeding. Identify any problems right away rather than discover them mid-wear. You can then exchange or return underwear that doesn’t pass your inspection.

To Wash or Not To Wash?

Now that you know why it’s recommended to wash new underwear before use, how exactly should you wash them? Here are some tips:

• Read the care label first. Follow any special washing instructions.
• Wash new underwear separately from other clothes to prevent discoloration or snags.
• Use a mild detergent and wash on a gentle cycle in cold or warm water. Harsh soaps and high heat can damage elastic and fabrics.
• Don’t use fabric softener or dryer sheets for the first wash as they can affect absorbency.
• Air dry or tumble dry on low if needed. High heat can shrink underwear.
• Inspect them after washing to make sure they are good to go. Check for shrinkage or defects.

Many brands claim their underwear is pre-washed or ready to wear. But it’s still a good idea to launder them yourself before that first wear for peace of mind. However, in some exceptions, washing may not be needed:

• If you have sensitive skin, wool and silk underwear may be fine without washing as the detergent could irritate.
• If trying on underwear at a store, purchased underwear likely doesn’t need rewashing.
• If underwear packaging specifically says “pre-washed” and they pass a visual inspection, you can probably wear them.

So next time you upgrade your underwear drawer, take a few minutes to give those new pairs a spin in the washing machine. Getting into the habit of washing before wearing helps ensure your underwear lasts longer and keeps you comfortable!

FAQs

Q: Can you get infections or illness from not washing new underwear before wearing it?

A: It’s unlikely, but a possibility that they were contaminated during manufacturing or handling. Washing provides an extra level of hygiene.

Q: Is hand-washing new underwear effective?

A: Yes, hand-washing with mild soap and water can clean new underwear effectively before first wear.

Q: Should you wash underwear before wearing it again after the first time?

A: Yes, underwear should always be washed after each wear to remove bacteria, sweat, oils, and other bodily fluids that transfer to the fabric.

Q: Can washing thin or delicate new underwear damage them?

A: Use a lingerie bag and gentle wash cycle for thin or delicate underwear. Air dry flat to avoid damage from heat. Test for colorfastness first.

Q: Is it okay to rinse new underwear in water before wearing it?

A: A full wash is better to fully eliminate chemicals and germs. But a rinse cycle can remove some residues if washing isn’t possible.

At Last,

Washing new underwear before that first wear is recommended. It removes potential chemical residues, germs, and excess dye while also checking quality. Make sure to follow garment care instructions. With clean underwear, you can feel fresh and comfortable!