Have you ever put on a brand-new piece of clothing only to be overwhelmed by a strange odor? TikToker Alexa (@alexasnakol0) recently shared a similar experience, highlighting the importance of washing new clothes before wearing them.
In a viral video with over 2.5 million views, Alexa recounted a peculiar incident involving a pair of pants she purchased from Walmart. After wearing them for a while, she began to notice a strong, unpleasant odor that she described as “mothballs.”
“I thought I was going crazy at this point,” Alexa shared in the video. “I was like, ‘There’s no way like the smell is just crazy.’”
As she continued to investigate the source of the odor, Alexa discovered that it was coming from her brand-new pants. She was surprised and confused, wondering why the clothing would smell so strongly of mothballs.
“Walmart, do you put mothballs in y’all shipping containers or something?” she asked jokingly.
Why Should You Wash New Clothes?
Many experts recommend washing new clothing before wearing them for several reasons:
Chemicals and Dyes: New clothes often contain leftover chemicals and dyes used in the manufacturing process. These substances can irritate sensitive skin or cause allergic reactions. Washing them removes these potential irritants.
Bacteria and Germs: Clothing can accumulate bacteria and germs during the manufacturing, shipping, and storage processes. Washing them helps eliminate these harmful microorganisms.
Body Oils and Sweat: Other people may have tried on the clothes before you, leaving behind body oils, sweat, and other residue. Washing them ensures they are clean and fresh.
TikTok Users Agree
Alexa’s experience resonated with many viewers, who shared similar stories and emphasized the importance of washing new clothes. Several commenters mentioned encountering mothball-like odors in clothing from Walmart.
One user commented, “I work in retail, and people fr be trying stuff on with no undergarments on. So yes pls wash your clothes lol.”
A Simple Precaution
Washing new clothes before wearing them is a simple yet effective way to ensure your comfort and health. By taking this precaution, you can avoid potential skin irritations, allergies, and unpleasant odors.