Nurse Raquel Souza de Faria has warned that improper underwear washing methods can lead to unexpected health issues in intimate areas, including severe irritation and persistent discomfort.
Speaking in an interview with the news outlet Terra, Faria explained that incorrect laundering practices frequently cause itching, burning, irritation, and general discomfort in intimate regions.
Terra is a prominent digital news portal and media platform that provides health, lifestyle, and general news coverage to millions of readers across Latin America.
According to Faria, these unpleasant symptoms often arise when people use scented fabric softeners or excessive amounts of laundry detergent. She added that failing to perform sufficient rinsing leaves active detergent residue in the fabric, which directly triggers adverse skin reactions.
Modern laundry detergents and fabric softeners contain chemical surfactants, artificial fragrances, and conditioners engineered to cling to textile fibers. Medical guidelines note that residual cleaning agents trapped in clothing can disrupt the skin natural barrier, causing contact dermatitis, localized inflammation, and sensitivity on sensitive tissue.
Washing and drying recommendations
The nurse also advised against aggressive cleaning techniques when washing undergarments. Faria said that people do not need to scrub underwear forcefully during washing, nor should they attempt to disinfect or sterilise the fabric.
In addition, Faria urged people never to store underwear while it remains in a damp state. She emphasized that garments must be dried thoroughly and completely before being placed inside a closet or wardrobe.
Textile hygiene experts recommend thorough air drying or low-heat drying for intimate apparel to eliminate trapped moisture. Storing damp fabrics in enclosed spaces like drawers or wardrobes creates a humid environment that encourages bacterial and fungal growth, compromising fabric cleanliness and skin health.
Proper support and physical health
Faria's advice follows previous warnings from physical therapist Mariana Malazzotto regarding how clothing choices affect physical health. Malazzotto highlighted the dangers of wearing an improperly fitted bra, emphasizing that inadequate support can lead to ongoing back problems for women.
Physical therapy is a healthcare discipline focused on musculoskeletal health, posture, and biomechanics. Specialists in the field frequently note that ill-fitting undergarments can alter weight distribution across the shoulders and spine, leading to muscle strain, joint discomfort, and poor posture over time.
