New clothes require special care to maintain their colour, shape, and quality. Generally, new items, especially coloured ones, should be washed separately from other clothes to avoid colour bleeding.
Tips for Washing New Clothes
Before the first wash, it’s important to read the care label, which will indicate the appropriate temperature and wash cycle for the garment.
For the initial wash, choose a gentle wash cycle with lower water temperature, usually up to 30°C, to minimise the risk of shrinkage or fading. Use a mild detergent without harsh chemicals, which could damage the fabric or irritate the skin.
For clothes made from natural materials, such as cotton or linen, rinse them in cold water before washing to remove any residual dyes and chemicals from production.
If you're concerned about loss of shape or elasticity, especially with knits or stretchy fabrics, turn the clothes inside out before washing. You can also use a laundry bag to prevent surface damage and extend the fabric's lifespan.