Is it safe to change into new clothes right after buying them at fast-fashion stores?
No. Fast-fashion clothes carry dye and finishing chemicals that should be washed off first.
What's actually in it
Fast-fashion clothing (Shein, Temu, H&M, Zara, and similar) moves quickly through the supply chain with limited quality control on chemical finishes. Clothes arrive with residual dyes, formaldehyde-based anti-wrinkle treatments, PFAS water repellents, and fragrances to keep them looking fresh on hangers. Some also carry biocides and antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold during shipping.
The skin is the body's largest organ and absorbs water- and oil-soluble chemicals.
What the research says
Multiple recent studies, including 2026 work on linalool hydroperoxides in contact dermatitis and organic contaminants in indoor dust, document textile chemical exposure. Brand-new unwashed clothes deliver the highest concentrations of these chemicals.
A two-step rule: wash new clothes twice before first wear with a fragrance-free detergent on hot. The first wash removes most surface chemistry; the second catches what bound to the fiber. For items that touch sensitive skin (underwear, bras, kid clothes), buy from brands with OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification. For kids' clothes specifically, secondhand options are often cleaner than new because most of the surface chemistry has washed out over previous cycles.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Occurrence and sources of organic contaminants of emerging concern in indoor dust: A global perspective. | J Hazard Mater | 2026 |
What to use instead
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