Sticking to the laundry habits for so many years turned out to be a mistake.

Habit 1: New clothes must be washed before wearing to avoid cancer

It's true that new clothes might contain some chemicals, such as formaldehyde, which is used in the dyeing and finishing processes. While formaldehyde is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen, the risk of cancer from wearing unwashed clothes is actually very low. The amount of exposure is minimal, and it doesn’t accumulate easily in the body. However, formaldehyde can cause irritation, especially for sensitive individuals, leading to symptoms like red eyes or a dry cough.

Tip: It’s a good idea to wash new clothes before wearing them, especially undergarments and baby clothes. You can also air-dry them in a well-ventilated area for a few days to help reduce any chemical residues.

Habit 2: Soaking clothes in hot water kills bacteria

Many people believe that soaking clothes in hot water is an effective way to disinfect them. While high temperature can kill some germs, the effectiveness depends on the duration and consistency of the heat. For example, to kill most bacteria like Candida, you’d need to keep the water at boiling point for at least 20 minutes. In reality, this isn’t always practical or achievable during regular washing.

Tip: Avoid soaking clothes for too long, as this may cause recontamination. A soak of 15–20 minutes is usually sufficient. Don’t exceed 30 minutes, as it can lead to shrinkage or damage to fabrics.

Habit 3: More bubbles mean cleaner clothes

Many people think that the more foam a detergent produces, the better it cleans. But the truth is, the cleaning power isn’t directly related to the amount of foam. Excess detergent can leave behind residue, making it harder to rinse and potentially causing skin irritation. Plus, it uses more water and takes longer to wash out.

Tip: Use the recommended amount of detergent based on the load size and water level. Opt for low-foam detergents if possible—they’re easier to rinse and still effective.

Habit 4: Hand-washing is better than machine-washing

While hand-washing gives more control, the difference in cleanliness between hand and machine washing is often minimal—provided the machine is clean. Most people forget that washing machines can harbor dirt and bacteria in hard-to-reach areas, which can end up on your clothes.

Tip: Clean your washing machine regularly. After six months of use, consider using a washing machine cleaner every two to three months. For deeper cleaning, professional disassembly once or twice a year is recommended.

Habit 5: Always turn clothes inside out when washing

Some people believe turning clothes inside out helps protect the fabric and color. While this is useful for certain materials, it’s not necessary for all types of clothing. If the drying area is clean and ventilated, most fabrics don’t need to be reversed.

Tip: 1. If you live in a dusty or polluted environment, it’s better to wash clothes with the right side facing out to avoid picking up dust or microbes. 2. For brightly colored or delicate fabrics like silk or wool, it’s best to dry them indoors to prevent fading or damage from UV rays.