How to Wash New Clothes: A Simple Guide for Fresh, Clean Fashion

With Christmas right around the corner, you or someone in your family will likely give or get new clothing. Each year, my family and I buy matching pajamas or funny Christmas sweaters to wear around the house. Whether it’s a silly sweater or an expensive gift, knowing how to wash a brand new piece of clothing is important. Here's the thing — those new clothes have been on quite the journey before reaching you. Not only does washing remove any chemicals or residue from the manufacturing process, but it also ensures a more comfortable fit. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to wash new clothes so you can wear them with confidence — and comfort.

Why Washing New Clothes is Important

Let's be honest — when you get new clothes, you want to wear them immediately. But here's the reality: New clothes often come with a range of residues, from dyes to sizing agents used to keep them looking crisp in stores. Washing them before wearing helps to:

1. Remove Chemicals & Residues: Fabrics are often treated with substances that can irritate your skin. A wash helps eliminate these residues.
2. Lock in Colors: Washing can help set dyes, reducing the risk of color bleeding and making sure your new favorite piece stays vibrant.
3. Ensure Comfort: New clothes can sometimes feel stiff or scratchy. Washing softens fabrics and improves overall comfort.
4. Check for Quality: Washing new items lets you spot any defects or issues before they become a problem during wear.

What You’ll Need

• A washing machine (or a basin for hand washing)
• HeySunday laundry sheets (all natural ingredients are the best)
• Mesh laundry bags (optional for delicate items)
• A drying rack or line for air drying

Step-by-Step Instructions for Washing New Clothes

1. Check the Care Labels

Before you do anything, read the care labels on your new garments. These labels give you important information about the recommended washing method, temperature, and drying instructions. Following these guidelines will help you avoid any mishaps.

2. Sort Your Laundry

Separate your new clothes by color and fabric type. Group darks, lights, and delicates to prevent color bleeding and damage. For delicate items, consider using mesh laundry bags to protect them during the wash.

3. Pre-Treat Any Stains

If you notice any stains on your new clothes, pre-treat them before washing. Mix half a HeySunday sheet with a small amount of water and apply directly to the stain and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This helps lift stubborn spots before they go into the wash.

4. Wash with HeySunday Laundry Sheets

When washing new clothes, choose a mild detergent that is free of dyes and fragrances. HeySunday is a great option because it’s made of all natural ingredients. Gentle detergent options are less likely to irritate sensitive skin and are better for preserving the quality of your clothes.

5. Select the Appropriate Wash Cycle

Select a gentle cycle on your washing machine and use cold water, especially for new items. Hot water can cause shrinkage and damage delicate fibers. If you’re hand washing, fill a basin with cool water and add detergent. Let the detergent sit for 5 minutes before adding the clothes.

6. Don’t Overload the Machine

Avoid overloading the washing machine. Clothes need space to move around to get thoroughly cleaned. A good rule of thumb is to fill the machine no more than three-quarters full.

7. Rinse Well

After the wash cycle, rinse your clothes thoroughly to remove all detergent. This is particularly important for sensitive skin, as leftover soap can cause irritation. On a washing machine, try an extra rinse cycle. If you’re hand washing, rinse the clothing under cool running water for a few minutes.

8. Air Dry Whenever Possible

Once your clothes are washed, it’s best to air dry them. Lay them flat on a drying rack or hang them up in a well-ventilated area. Avoid using the dryer for new clothes, as heat can shrink fabrics and alter their shape. If you must use a dryer, opt for a low-heat setting.

10. Enjoy Your Fresh Clothes!

Once your new clothes are clean and dry, they’re ready to wear or gift wrap! Enjoy the comfort and confidence that comes from wearing items that are clean and free from unwanted residues.

Additional Tips

• Wash Similar Fabrics Together: This helps prevent wear and tear on delicate items and keeps everything looking its best.
• Avoid Fabric Softeners: They can leave a residue that diminishes moisture-wicking properties in athletic wear or other specialty fabrics.
• Rotate Your New Clothes: Give each item a chance to breathe between wears, which helps maintain their quality.

Conclusion

Washing new clothes is a simple but important step — it removes chemicals, ensures comfort, and helps your clothes last longer. Whether it's those matching family PJs or a special holiday outfit, taking a few minutes to wash them properly means everyone stays comfortable and healthy during the festive season. So before you wear or wrap that new piece, give it a quick wash.