How Long Can STDS Live On Clothing

The most common ways of spreading STDs are through unprotected sexual activities and sharing of needles. There are cases where STDs can transmit due to sharing of personal items like razors and towels. Hence, you might want to know how long can STDs live on clothing. Accidental infections through body fluids like semen, blood, vaginal discharge, or saliva can also occur. Though you can contract an STD through the clothes of an infected person, such incidents are rare. So, how long can STDs live on clothing?

Generally, on favorable conditions, STDs can survive up to seven days on clothes. However, how long can STDs live on clothing depends on many factors. The clothes being a dirty towel, handkerchief, underwear, etc., is one factor. There is a high chance that the STD germ can thrive for some days. But they can be short-lived when on clothes like shirts, half or long pants, or jackets.

How long can STDs live on clothing can depend on the moisture level of the clothing too. When the moisture level is high, the environment becomes favorable for the germs to survive and breed. But when there is not enough moisture, their activities subside gradually.

Additionally, the survival rate of STDs varies depending on the type of germs. Bacteria cannot survive well outside the human body and hence, dies quickly once exposed to clothes. Such infections include the common Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis.  On the other hand, viruses tend to be more resistant to environmental change and survive outside the body. Hence, viral infections like HIV, genital herpes, and HPV can survive up to seven days on clothes. Parasites like trichomoniasis can also stay on clothes for some time under the right conditions.

If you are unsure of your health, you can visit our partner's STD lab and get yourself tested. Maintaining good hygiene and avoiding sharing personal belongings are some steps you can take to prevent accidental infections. Knowing how long can STDs live on clothing can help you to be more cautious. All the more, practicing safe sex and taking regular STD tests can assure your safety and good sexual health.