“Textile products may have stray chemicals from the production process in addition to starches used to keep the clothes crisp while shipping, packaging, or hanging in the store.” There are many steps fabrics go through before they make their way to you and even natural fibers can be exposed to potential irritants. “Natural fibers require scouring and cleaning before they become yarn, yarn spinning requires lubricants, sometimes resins are used for warp sizing, and starches can be used in the weaving process,” she explains. “Yarn and fabric can require additional scouring using soap products, sodium hydroxide, or bleaching to properly accept color during dyeing or printing processes.” RELATED: How to Wash Silk Pillowcases and Sheets For dyed garments, like jeans, there is some risk of the dye bleeding onto your blouse or furniture when you sit down. Washing new jeans before the first wear can help prevent this. RELATED: How Often Should You Wash Your Jeans? Experts Weigh In “If you want to extend the life of a product and reduce shrinkage, I suggest washing in cold water and drying on low or hang-drying clothes,” Kleinman says. The heat from both the water temperature and dryer settings can fade, stretch, and shrink your favorite clothing. RELATED: Hand Washing Do’s and Don’ts RELATED: Your Top Laundry Questions, Answered
