Johann Hunt
This might come as a shock, but towels can also harbor various viruses, bacteria, and mold if not washed frequently enough. The topic of towel hygiene is overlooked, but keeping them clean is important for your overall cleanliness and well-being. So, how often should you wash your towels? Keep scrolling to find out.
Daily Use Towels
Towels used daily for showering should be washed after three to four uses. This will prevent the build-up of germs and bacteria and ensure the fabric stays fresh. Regular laundering also helps maintain the towel’s absorbency to maintain its effectiveness for drying off after every use.
Hand Towels
Due to their frequent use, hand towels need to be washed more frequently. Ideally, they should be laundered every two to three days. Since they come into contact with multiple people and hands, washing them regularly prevents the spread of germs and keeps them hygienic.
Face Towels
Towels used to dry your face after cleansing should be cleaned after using twice or thrice. It will prevent the transfer of bacteria back into your skin and reduce the risk of breakouts or irritation. You should wash your face towels with a mild detergent.
Kitchen Towels
Kitchen towels should be washed daily or after heavy use. They often come into contact with food, spills, and various surfaces, inevitably becoming more prone to bacteria. Frequent washing ensures they remain sanitary and do not lead to cross-contamination.
Gym Towels
Sweat and bacteria can quickly accumulate on towels used during exercise, and they become a breeding ground for germs. To maintain hygiene, it’s important to toss them into the wash after each gym session. Add baking soda to the towel wash cycle to remove odors from the fibers.
Guest Towels
Guest towels should be washed after every guest visit, even if they appear unused. This practice guarantees that your visitors always have access to a fresh, clean towel, which is especially important for making a good impression and ensuring a pleasant stay.
Beach Towels
Sand, salt, and sunscreen residues can damage a beach towel’s fibers and harbor bacteria. Proper laundering keeps beach towels fresh, prolongs their lifespan, and ensures they’re ready for the next outing. With that said, wash your beach towels after each use.
Hair Towels
You should wash your hair towels after three to four uses. Regular washing keeps the towel absorbent and fresh. While drying your hair, oils and water can build up on the towel, potentially leading to a less effective drying process and a musty smell.
Pet Towels
Pet fur, dirt, and odors can cling to the towel, so it’s not wise to use them more than once before washing. Pet towels should be washed immediately after each use. This prevents the spread of allergens and keeps your home and your pet’s drying area clean.
Floor Towels
Some homeowners use large floor towels instead of mats. These should be washed weekly to prevent the build-up of moisture, mold, and bacteria. Floor towels absorb a lot of water and dirt from your feet, so it’s important to wash them with a strong detergent.
Towels in Humid Climates
If you live in a humid climate, towels may need more frequent washing due to slower drying times and an increased risk of mildew. In such environments, laundering towels every two to three uses can help prevent musty odors and keep them fresh.
Dealing with Stains
Spot clean a stained towel immediately to prevent the stain from setting. Pre-treating the stain before washing can help remove it more effectively. Additionally, different types of stains will need a specific kind of cleaning. For example, use dish soap and hot water to remove oil stains.
Proper Drying
To prevent mildew and bacteria growth, towels must be dried thoroughly after each use. If possible, hang them in a well-ventilated area. Towels should also be completely dried after laundering to maintain their freshness and avoid the development of unpleasant odors.
Towel Rotation
Rotate your towels often to ensure even wear and prolong their lifespan. Having a few sets in rotation allows each towel adequate time to dry between uses and helps maintain their absorbency and softness over time. This method will save you from replacing towels frequently.
Choosing the Right Detergent
Opt for a detergent that is gentle yet effective for cleaning towels. Don’t use fabric softeners, as they can affect absorbency over time and leave a silicone film on the fibers. Using a high-quality detergent keeps your towels clean, soft, and smelling fresh.