Can Poison Ivy Oil Stay on Clothes After Washing?
It is common knowledge that poison ivy oil can cause a skin rash. However, not many people know that the rash is caused by an oily substance found in the leaves of the poison ivy plant. This oily substance can cling to clothing, and then transfer to skin and cause a rash. But what happens when we wash those clothes? Can the oil stay on clothing after washing?
The Risks of Poison Ivy Oil Transfer
The oil from poison ivy plant contains an allergen called urushiol. When urushiol comes into contact with the skin, it can cause an allergic reaction that presents as a rash. The rash can range from a mild discomfort to severe itching and burning.
To make sure you don’t get a rash, it is important to avoid contact with the oil. You can do this by wearing protective long clothing, never touching the plant, washing the clothes you were wearing after contact with the plant and paying attention to the environment.
Can Poison Ivy Oil Stay On Clothes After Washing?
Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Although laundering clothing can help remove most of the oil, it does not always get rid of all of it. This means that some of the oil can stay on the clothing and can later transfer to skin and cause a rash.
To be sure that your clothing is really clean, it is best to take additional steps:
- Remove clothing promptly. Get out of the clothing that has come into contact with poison ivy as soon as you can. Immediately place the clothing in a plastic bag.
- Wash the clothing in hot water. Hot water helps break down the oils and remove them from clothing.
- Use a laundry detergent with enzymes. Enzymes in detergent can help break down the oils.
- Wash a second time. To make sure all of the oils are gone, it is best to wash the clothing twice.
- Dry on high heat. Put the clothing in the dryer on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
Doing these things can help make sure that all of the oil is removed from your clothing and that you don’t suffer from a rash.
Conclusion
Yes, poison ivy oil can stay on clothes after washing. To make sure that your clothing is really clean, it is best to remove clothing promptly, wash in hot water, use a detergent with enzymes, wash twice, and dry on high heat. Taking these additional steps can help make sure that all of the oil is removed, and you don’t suffer from a rash.