Should you wash new baby clothes before first wear?
Wash new clothes before first wear, especially baby clothes and anything worn close to skin.
What's actually in it
Some textiles are treated with formaldehyde resins to resist wrinkles, shrinking, and mildew during storage and shipping. Dyes, finishing agents, and softeners can also sit on new fabric.
Babies and young kids wear clothing close to skin for long stretches. Washing new clothes before first wear is a simple way to remove loose residues and dust from manufacturing, packing, and shipping.
What the research says
A 2025 review in Rev Environ Health looked at formaldehyde exposure from treated textiles, especially occupational uniforms. It also surveyed 291 airline employees who wore new uniforms containing 26 to 83 ppm formaldehyde.
Compared with a national survey sample, those workers reported higher rates of asthma, anxiety, depression, and immune-related conditions. More time perspiring in the uniforms was linked with worse skin symptoms. The authors called for stronger textile regulation and precautionary steps such as OEKO-TEX certification.
This paper does not measure how much one home wash removes. It does support caution with treated textiles in real-world wear. Practical move: wash new baby clothes, pajamas, underwear, and bedding before use. Choose simple cotton items and look for clear textile certifications when available.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Unfinished business: formaldehyde exposure from uniforms and the case for U.S. textile regulation. | Rev Environ Health | 2025 |
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