Why do my new clothes smell like chemicals?

Have you ever bought new clothes and noticed a strong chemical odor? That smell can be off-putting and even raise health concerns. Understanding why this happens can help you make better choices and care for your clothing properly.

New clothes often smell like chemicals due to the use of formaldehyde in clothes¹, dyes, and other finishing agents during manufacturing. These chemicals help preserve fabrics, prevent wrinkles, and improve appearance during transport and storage.

This issue is more common than you think. Let’s explore the causes, safety concerns, and solutions for chemical odors in new clothing.

Is it safe to wear clothes that smell like chemicals?

The smell of chemicals on new clothes can be concerning. But is it actually dangerous?

It’s not always safe to wear clothes with a strong chemical smell. Prolonged exposure to substances like toxic chemicals in clothing² can cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, or allergic reactions. Washing before wearing is highly recommended.

Gentle Handwashing

Risks Associated with Chemical Residue

• Skin Irritation: Chemicals can cause itching, redness, or rashes, especially for sensitive skin.
• Respiratory Issues: Strong odors may trigger breathing difficulties or headaches in some individuals.
• Long-Term Exposure: Continuous contact with residual formaldehyde may lead to more severe health effects.

How to Minimize Risks

• Always wash new clothes before wearing them.
• Use hypoallergenic or eco-friendly detergents³ to remove chemical residues.
• Air out clothes in a well-ventilated area to reduce odors.

Why do some new clothes have a chemical smell?

Not all new clothes smell the same, but certain manufacturing practices can lead to noticeable odors. Why is that?

Some new clothes have a chemical smell due to treatments like formaldehyde application, synthetic dyes, and fabric finishing agents. These chemicals are used to enhance durability, colorfastness, and wrinkle resistance.

Common Causes of Chemical Odors

• Formaldehyde: Applied to prevent wrinkles and shrinkage during transport.
• Dyes and Finishes: Synthetic dyes and finishing agents often emit strong odors.
• Packaging: Prolonged storage in plastic bags traps volatile chemicals, intensifying the smell.

Industries That Use These Chemicals

Fast fashion often relies on quick, cost-effective production methods that may involve higher chemical use. Eco-friendly brands typically use fewer chemicals and sustainable processes.

How to get the formaldehyde smell out of clothes?

If your new clothes have a persistent chemical odor, what can you do to eliminate it effectively?

To remove the formaldehyde smell from clothes, wash them with baking soda, soak them in vinegar, or let them air out in the sunlight. These methods neutralize odors and break down chemical residues, effectively removing chemical smells⁴.

Step-by-Step Methods

1. Baking Soda Wash: Add ½ cup of baking soda to your washing machine. It’s excellent for neutralizing odors.
2. Vinegar Soak: Mix one part white vinegar with four parts water. Soak clothes for 30 minutes before washing.
3. Sun Drying: Sunlight naturally breaks down volatile compounds and freshens clothes.

Pro Tips

• Use eco-friendly detergents³ designed for sensitive skin.
• Repeat the process for heavily treated garments.
• Avoid high heat when drying, as it can set chemical residues into the fabric.

How to know if clothing has formaldehyde?

Identifying formaldehyde-treated clothes can be tricky. How can you tell if your garments contain it?

To know if clothing has formaldehyde, check for strong chemical odors, look for wrinkle-free or stain-resistant labels, and research the manufacturer’s production practices. Formal testing kits are also available for confirmation, such as home testing kits for formaldehyde⁵.

Formaldehyde Testing Kits

Home testing kits can detect chemical residues on clothes. They are easy to use and provide accurate results for peace of mind.

Conclusion

New clothes smell like chemicals due to manufacturing treatments such as formaldehyde and synthetic dyes. While not always dangerous, these odors can pose risks for sensitive individuals. By washing your clothes and being aware of chemical usage, you can enjoy your new garments safely and comfortably.