What is the appropriate first step to take when washing pesticide-covered clothing?

When dealing with pesticide-covered clothing, the appropriate first step is to shake off any pesticide dust or granules from the clothing outdoors. This method reduces the risk of contaminating other items or surfaces in your laundry area. Removing loose pesticides before washing ensures that the bulk of the chemical residues will not transfer to your washing machine or regular laundry, which is especially important for maintaining safety and cleanliness.

Taking this step is critical because it minimizes exposure to pesticides and prevents them from becoming airborne or spreading to other clothing. Cleaning pesticides properly is necessary for safety and to follow best practices outlined in pest control guidelines. This approach safeguards both the individual handling the clothing and anyone else who may come into contact with the laundry later.

The other options do not adequately address safety concerns or contamination. For example, washing pesticide-covered clothing with regular laundry could lead to cross-contamination, while discarding the clothing without taking precautions would not ensure proper decontamination or disposal. Ironing the clothing before washing does not provide any benefits regarding safety or effectiveness in removing pesticides.