Should You Wash New Clothes? - They Could Be Laced with Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde in Clothing

Who doesn't enjoy shopping for new clothes or giving a loved one or friend a new sweater as a gift? Most people these days certainly do take a degree of satisfaction from purchasing new clothing, however, everyone should be aware that new clothes, towels or even sheets might contain toxic chemicals like formaldehyde. Formaldehyde? Yep, that's right, the chemical used in biology labs for preserving dead animals and body parts. But why would anyone put formaldehyde on clothing? There are several reasons that manufacturers use formaldehyde. It is believed that some of the chemicals help keep the fabric stain free, wrinkle free and disinfected. But more importantly, it should be made clear that formaldehyde is considered a carcinogen, a cancer causing agent.

Strangely enough, when clothes have a fresh, new scent to them, it's from the chemicals used during their manufacture. Some people have very sensitive skin and can break out in a rash from the formaldehyde and other chemicals without even realizing their rash is from the clothes. Even those people who don't have a reaction are at risk since continued exposure to carcinogens could increase their chances of contracting cancer. Therefore, all new clothing and fabrics in general should be washed prior to wearing or using them.