Is it safe to rent clothing during a pandemic

The novel coronavirus, Covid-19, has made us question almost everything about our daily lives. Where once we thought nothing of going to the store to try on new styles or see how they fit before taking them home, we're now questioning whether that's even safe.

Trying on clothes off the rack isn't the only questionable problem. Renting clothes for special occasions (if they aren't canceled completely) is a common practice for those who don't wear formal wear frequently or can't afford to outright buy it. 

If you're wondering whether it is safe to get up close and personal with clothing that has touched another person, here's what you need to know.

Coronavirus can linger on clothing

The CDC states that most of those who will become infected with the coronavirus become so by breathing in tiny droplets made by an infected person's breath. This could come in the form of a cough, sneeze, or even just singing or talking.

These droplets can land on your clothing, and it's uncertain how long they will last. Materials like Polyester and Spandex are likely to carry the virus for longer, but metal is likely to harbor the virus for longer—so beware of zippers and buttons touched by other people.

Other precautions more important

There has to date been no documented cases of people picking up Covid-19 from clothing. While it is still possible for you to get it from trying on or renting clothing, you're actually more likely to get it from being close to another person in a changing room.

Instead of focusing on the safety of clothes, the best practice is to worry about social distancing, masks, and hand washing. Studies show that how much virus you are exposed to is almost as important as whether you are exposed, so the mask and handwashing are a more practical thing to worry about.