Should You Rewash Clothes After Spider Contact? Expert Advice for Parents

Q: Should You Rewash Clothes After Spider Contact? Expert Advice for Parents

Hello： If you are concerned that spiders may leave behind secretions, toxins, eggs, spider silk, or other substances on clothing that could affect health, it is advisable to wash the clothes again or even disinfect them. <br>If children at home have worn clothing that has been cr

How should this be handled?

Hello, doctor.
I have children at home, and I would like to ask if clothes that have been hung out to dry on the balcony have been crawled on by spiders, but I'm not sure if they have spun webs or laid eggs, and I'm also uncertain if my child has worn those clothes.
Should the clothes be washed again? Additionally, how should I handle the situation regarding my child? Thank you, doctor.

Kk, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/05

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello: If you are concerned that spiders may leave behind secretions, toxins, eggs, spider silk, or other substances on clothing that could affect health, it is advisable to wash the clothes again or even disinfect them.
If children at home have worn clothing that has been crawled on by spiders, the most common issue is skin allergies.
Therefore, it is recommended to monitor the children for any signs of itching or rashes in the coming days.
If such symptoms occur, a visit to a dermatologist would be appropriate.

Reply Date: 2023/05/05

More Info

When it comes to concerns about spider contact with clothing, especially in households with children, it's important to understand the nature of spiders and the potential risks involved. Generally, spiders are not known to transmit diseases to humans, and the likelihood of them causing harm through contact with clothing is quite low. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, if you suspect that your child's clothing has come into contact with a spider, it is advisable to wash the clothes. While spiders themselves do not pose a significant health risk, washing the clothes can help remove any potential allergens or irritants that may be present. Additionally, if there are any webs or egg sacs, washing will help eliminate those as well. Using hot water and a good detergent is recommended, as this will effectively clean the fabric and reduce any risk of irritation.

In terms of handling the situation with your child, it’s important to educate them about spiders and the importance of not touching or provoking them. If your child has been in contact with clothing that may have had a spider on it, a simple wash of their hands and a change of clothes can help alleviate any concerns. Encourage your child to wash their hands thoroughly after handling any clothing that may have been outside, as this is a good practice to prevent any potential transfer of allergens or irritants.

Furthermore, if you notice any unusual symptoms in your child, such as itching, redness, or swelling, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional. While spider bites are rare, they can occur, and it’s important to monitor for any signs of an allergic reaction or infection.

In summary, while the risk of harm from spider contact is minimal, it is prudent to wash any clothing that may have been exposed. This not only ensures cleanliness but also provides peace of mind. Teaching children about spiders and proper hygiene practices will help them navigate encounters with these creatures safely. Regular cleaning of outdoor areas and being mindful of where clothes are hung to dry can also reduce the likelihood of spider contact in the future.

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