You can use a newly bought towel, but it is highly recommended that you wash it before its first use.
Why Wash New Towels?
While there's no immediate health risk from using a new towel straight out of the packaging, washing them first offers several benefits based on common practice and expert advice.
- Reduces Lint Shedding: As mentioned in the reference provided: "Wash towels before use: This is especially important if you have purchased new towels, as they will likely shed more lint during the first washes." New towels often have loose fibers from the manufacturing process that can transfer onto your skin or bathroom surfaces if not washed out first.
- Removes Manufacturing Residues: Towels are processed with chemicals during manufacturing (like softeners or sizing agents) to make them look appealing in the store. Washing helps remove these residues.
- Enhances Absorbency: Some of the finishes applied during manufacturing can actually reduce a new towel's absorbency. Washing them removes these finishes, allowing the towel fibers to become more absorbent.
- Improves Feel and Softness: Washing can help "fluff up" the fibers, making the towel feel softer and more comfortable against your skin.
- Hygiene: While less critical than with used items, washing can remove any dust or dirt picked up during packaging and transit.
Practical Steps for Washing New Towels
To get the best performance and feel from your new towels:
- Wash them separately or with similar colors for the first few washes to prevent color bleeding and manage lint.
- Use a standard laundry detergent.
- Avoid using fabric softener in the wash, as it can decrease absorbency over time.
- Tumble dry on a medium heat setting.
By taking the small step of washing your new towels, you ensure they are cleaner, more absorbent, and shed less lint, providing a better user experience from the start.
