A viral video showing a cotton swab test on a pair of underwear inside a Victoria's Secret store has sparked a fresh debate about hygiene and whether shoppers should be allowed to try on underwear before buying it. The clip claims bacteria were found on the garment after it was tested, leading many people online to question current fitting room practices.
The video has gained thousands of views across social media, with many users saying they would never wear new underwear without washing it first. Others argued that retailers should stop customers from trying on underwear altogether because there is no way to know whether store policies are always followed.
The discussion has also put the spotlight on how lingerie retailers balance customer comfort with hygiene. While many shoppers want to check the fit before buying, others believe underwear should be treated differently from bras or other clothing because it comes into direct contact with sensitive areas.
What Is Victoria's Secret's Underwear Try-On Policy?
Victoria's Secret has guidance for customers who wish to try on underwear. According to information shared by the company, shoppers are expected to wear their own underwear or use a protective liner while trying on garments. The policy is designed to reduce direct contact between the product and the customer's skin.
However, the policy largely depends on customers following the rules. Unlike sealed products, store staff cannot always monitor what happens inside fitting rooms. That has led some shoppers to question whether the system offers enough protection.
This is what happens if you take a cotton swab into Victoria’s Secret, swab a pair of underwear and do a test for growing bacteria
— Wall Street Apes (@WallStreetApes) July 11, 2026
This should horrify every woman in America
The reason for this is Victoria’s Secret allows customers to try on lingerie, bras, underwear,… pic.twitter.com/9Vcwr2qYUQ
The viral video argues that because the policy relies on the 'honour system', there is no guarantee every customer follows it. While the clip has fuelled concern online, there is no independent evidence proving that the bacteria shown in the test came from customers trying on the underwear or that the results represent all products sold in stores.
Why Experts Recommend Washing New Underwear
Health experts have long advised washing newly purchased clothing before wearing it, especially underwear. Clothing can collect dust, dirt, skin cells and bacteria during manufacturing, shipping, storage and while being handled by customers in shops.
Even if an item has never been tried on, it may still have been touched by several people before reaching the customer. Washing garments removes many of these contaminants and may also help remove chemicals used during the manufacturing process.
There was a case a long time ago where pants had toxic organophosphates that made the people who wore them sick.
— Emerald Apple (@AI_EmeraldApple) July 11, 2026
It's not just bacteria, but chemicals could be on them... make sure they are washed at least once. pic.twitter.com/z5tEqUPzcC
Medical experts also note that finding bacteria on clothing is not unusual. Many types of bacteria are harmless and are commonly found in everyday environments. A simple swab test alone cannot determine whether the bacteria present pose a health risk without proper laboratory analysis.
Should Retailers Change Their Policies?
The viral debate has divided shoppers. Some believe underwear should be sold in sealed packaging that cannot be opened before purchase. Others think fitting should remain available because sizing can vary widely between brands, helping reduce returns and unnecessary waste.
Several lingerie brands already have different rules depending on the product. Bras, slips and bodysuits are commonly available to try on, while some retailers restrict underwear fittings or require disposable liners for hygiene reasons.
Victoria Secret | Pink having a SALEEEEE 5/$35 & neutral colors 5/$18.99 RUNNNN 😩🩷🥰 pic.twitter.com/14EnlQYmK0
— 𝐿𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑥 (@mslavix) July 12, 2026
For now, the controversy appears to be less about one retailer and more about consumer confidence. Although Victoria's Secret encourages customers to wear their own underwear or use a liner during fittings, many shoppers say they would feel more comfortable if stricter hygiene measures were introduced. Until then, experts agree on one simple step: always wash new underwear before wearing it for the first time.
