The joy of Eid is not complete without a beautiful outfit and new clothes that bring happiness to both adults and children. However, it is crucial to pay attention to a very important matter: the health risks associated with wearing new clothes directly without washing them. Some people are aware of this issue, while others may overlook it. Here are the reasons why new clothes should be washed before wearing them, according to spruce:
1. **Skin Sensitivity**
Fabrics made from synthetic fibers, such as polyester or acrylic, require special attention and should be washed before wearing. These fabrics contain dyes that pose serious risks to skin health, especially for individuals with sensitivities, as they can lead to rashes similar to those caused by poison ivy.
2. **Lice**
Some people try on clothes multiple times to choose the right fit. If someone has head lice, these pests can cling to the fabric, potentially spreading to others when the clothes are worn again.
3. **Skin Diseases**
Direct contact with clothes might lead to infections with contagious fungi when someone with a skin disease tries them on, followed by someone else purchasing those clothes.
4. **Chemical Compounds**
Some factories treat new clothes with formaldehyde, known as "formalin," which is a chemical used to enhance their color. This poses significant health risks for individuals with respiratory sensitivities when inhaled, as well as for those with skin sensitivities when there is continuous contact with areas such as the armpits, neck, shoulders, and thighs.
5. **Dust Allergy and Respiratory Issues**
Clothes displayed in open areas are prone to dust, which can irritate the eyes when tried on, leading to redness, itching, and excessive tearing, potentially resulting in chronic eye allergies. Additionally, clothing displayed outside can accumulate dust, dirt, and car exhaust. Wearing such clothes can trigger respiratory allergies through inhalation, causing breathlessness, coughing, and airway inflammation.
To avoid all these risks and more, it is advisable to wash new clothes to prevent turning the joy of Eid into the start of an unwelcome medical journey.
