The demand for secondhand and vintage clothing is increasing as consumers see it as a more affordable and eco-friendly way to expand their wardrobe. However, it’s crucial to properly disinfect secondhand clothes before wearing them, as they can harbor infectious pathogens from the skin microbiome of previous owners. These pathogens include bacteria like Staphylococcus and Streptococcus, fungi like Candida, and viruses like HPV. Washing secondhand clothes with detergent at a high temperature is recommended to eliminate germs and reduce the risk of infection. It’s important to wash secondhand clothes separately from regular laundry and consider using a hot tumble dryer or steam iron for extra disinfection.
Source link
Secondhand clothes can be swimming in germs—what vintage shoppers need to know
