Fashion during pandemic: Can coronavirus live on your clothes?

As we continue to grapple with the changes in our life due to the coronavirus pandemic, one major change have been on our fashion and shopping habits. After all, fashion during the pandemic comes with a twist. Now face masks have become an inevitable part of your OOTD and hand washing has become the ultimate skincare routine. Amid the changing scenario, there have also been changes in the nature of the COVID-19 virus that doubled-up our concerns . One such concern is related to daily wear clothes. Can coronavirus live on clothes? For how long can the virus survive on our clothes? How safe it’s to buy clothes?

According to Harvard Health, the virus is more likely to survive on hard surfaces than softer ones, such as fabrics of clothes. Fabrics like patent leather have smooth surfaces which can make it relatively safer to wear. Although there are fewer chances of transporting the virus through shoes, it’s better to take off shoes at the door before entering the house.

Health experts suggest regularly washing clothes and changing them every day even if you’re staying indoors. One must change their clothes every time they step out for groceries and wash them with detergent in hot water. Don’t forget to wipe your washer and dryer with disinfectant too.

Although there’s no clear information on how long the coronavirus can live on any surface. The World Health Organisation suggest that the lifetime of the COVID-19 virus can be anywhere between a few hours to a few days. Buying clothes during pandemic has low risk when it’s reaching you through the shipping process. With the closing of retail shops, the likelihood of getting the infection through a package is less than in-person interaction.

It’s also advisable to follow public health advice to prevent the coronavirus infection. One must wear a face mask at public places and sanitise them as well.

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