How Often Should You Wash Your Towels?
Towels are one of those things that we use every day but don’t think much about. We might not even think to wash them until they start to smell or feel gritty. But how often should we really be washing our towels? Here’s a look at some expert recommendations.
How Often Should You Wash Bath Towels?
According to Cleaning Institute, the general rule of thumb is to wash your bath towels after three uses. If you’re using the same towel multiple times per day or if someone else in the house is using it, you may need to wash it twice a week. This will prevent germs and bacteria from building up. And for towels used at the gym, beach, or pool, you should definitely be washing them after each use.
Did you know that a dirty towel can contain up to 200,000 bacteria? Keep clean with regular washes!
How Often Should You Wash Hand Towels?
Hand towels are typically handled more often than bath towels and can become a breeding ground for germs if not washed regularly. The best practice is to wash them after every use or two. These are the towels you use to dry your hands after washing them or wiping off a countertop, so they get dirty quicker and need to be laundered more frequently.
What’s the best way to wash my towels?
Towels should be washed in warm water with mild detergent. You’ll want to avoid using fabric softener as it can cause build-up on your towel and make it less absorbent. If you’re washing your towels in a machine, be sure to use the delicate cycle. For best results, hang your towels up to dry rather than putting them in the dryer.
Can I put my towel in the washing machine with other clothes?
Yes, you can put your towel in the washing machine with other clothes; however, you’ll want to make sure that they are similar colors so that they don’t bleed onto each other. Additionally, you’ll want to avoid washing your towels with anything that has Velcro or anything else that could snag on the towel and cause it to tear.
What temperature should I wash my towels in?
Towels should be washed in warm water; hot water can cause them to shrink and/or damage the fibers.
How can I get my towels to smell fresh?
After washing your towels, hang them outside in the sun to dry. The sun’s ultraviolet rays will help kill any bacteria that might be lurking in your towel. You can also add a cup of vinegar to the washing cycle, which will help remove any musty smells.
Can I iron my towel?
No, you should not iron your towel! Ironing can damage the fibers and make them less absorbent. If you need to remove wrinkles from your towel, simply throw it in the dryer for a few minutes before using it.
Can I use bleach on my towels?
It’s not recommended that you use bleach on your towels as it can damage the fibers; however, if you do choose to use bleach, be sure to use a color-safe bleach so that it doesn’t ruin the color of your towel.
How can I keep my towels looking new?
The best way to keep your towels looking new is to follow the care instructions that came with them when you purchased them (most importantly – wash them regularly!). Additionally, be sure to store them properly; folded neatly or rolled up in a drawer or cabinet is best so that they don’t get wrinkled or damaged by being jostled around too much.
When should you replace your bath towels?
The towel fibers will break down over time with regular use, making them less absorbent, so it’s best to replace your towels every 2-3 years. If you notice any fraying or thinning of the fabric, it’s time to get new ones. Additionally, if your towel starts to smell musty even after regular washing, it’s probably time to replace it.
ALSO READ: How Often Should You Wash Your Sheets?
