Second-hand clothing, popularly known as okrika, raises several important questions whenever it is discussed. Is second-hand clothing safe and healthy? How about undies? Are there advantages to second-hand clothes over new ones? And should babies wear them at all?
The use of second-hand clothing cannot be totally discouraged. From an environmental perspective, reusing clothing supports sustainability and reduces waste. Disposing of garments after a single use, especially when they are still in good condition, is neither economical nor environmentally responsible. Many old clothes can be refurbished and remain useful to others.
Affordability is another major reason for the widespread use of second-hand clothing. For many people, especially those on low incomes, okrika is often the only viable option. However, while cost savings are important, health should never be compromised. Some people also believe these clothes are of better quality than newly manufactured garments. Whether true or not, taking health precautions is necessary before wearing any second-hand garment.
Valid concerns
Wearing second-hand clothing without adequate cleaning can expose users to health risks, some of which may not be immediately obvious. The strong odour associated with these clothes can trigger breathing difficulties in asthmatic individuals. Even trying on clothes at the point of purchase may cause itching or skin irritation due to contact with contaminants.
Human skin is naturally covered by millions of microorganisms known as the skin microbiome. Clothing comes into close contact with these microbes. Some of the organisms commonly found on the skin include Staphylococcus (responsible for staph infections), Streptococcus (which causes strep A), fungi such as Candida (a leading cause of thrush), and viruses like the human papillomavirus (HPV). When clothing is reused without proper disinfection, these microorganisms can be transferred to a new wearer.
Most second-hand clothes sold in Nigeria are imported from various countries, often compressed into large bales and transported by sea. Preservative chemicals are frequently applied to protect them from fungi, bacteria, insects, and moisture during long periods of storage and transportation. These chemicals can pose additional health risks if not thoroughly removed before use.
Prioritising safety
Safety is a key consideration that many buyers overlook when purchasing second-hand clothing, particularly because the history of the garment and its previous user is unknown. This concern becomes more serious when people wear second-hand underwear, which significantly increases the risk of infection.
Medical experts have warned that users of unwashed second-hand clothing may be exposed to infections such as candidiasis and hepatitis A, B, and C. These garments can transmit skin infections caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses, and parasites if hygiene measures are neglected.
Dermatologists and venereology specialists have also emphasised that skin infections can occur through direct contact between second-hand clothing and the skin. It is therefore alarming to see people purchase these clothes, try them on, and immediately wear them away from the market without washing or disinfecting them.
Some buyers rely on claims that the clothes are “first grade” and try to dilute the characteristic odour with perfumes. Unfortunately, this does nothing to eliminate germs or chemical residues. In fact, adding perfumes to contaminated clothing may further irritate the skin.
Children are especially at risk. Babies and young children have delicate skin and weaker immune systems. Bearing this in mind, second-hand clothes meant for children should always be washed thoroughly. Health experts recommend washing them at about 60 degrees Celsius with detergent, washing them separately, and ironing them after drying to help kill remaining germs.
Hidden hazards
Second-hand clothing can affect health without the wearer immediately realising it. Skin infections resulting from contaminated garments may be mistakenly attributed to changes in soap, weather, diet, or environment. As a result, the true cause may remain unidentified.
In some cases, even healthcare professionals may not immediately suspect unwashed second-hand clothing as the source of infection. Treatment may be prescribed without addressing the underlying cause, allowing the problem to persist.
Pregnant women and babies are particularly vulnerable due to their sensitive immune systems and delicate skin. While everyone is at risk, these groups face greater potential harm. Baby clothes, whether new or second-hand, must be handled with strict hygiene practices, as the consequences of neglect can be severe.
Healthcare providers also need continued awareness of this issue, as infections transmitted through clothing may not always be considered during diagnosis. Preventing the health risks associated with second-hand clothing requires education, responsibility, and vigilance.
Wearing unwashed second-hand clothing should be strongly discouraged. By practising proper hygiene and raising awareness, individuals can significantly reduce the negative health effects associated with okrika while still enjoying its economic and environmental benefits.
