Towels are one of the most-used items in a home. And even though we’re clean when we use them, they are certainly items that need a good, regular wash.
But did you know there is a good and bad way to wash a towel?
Whirlpool, Martha Stewart, Better Homes and Gardens, and The New York Times gives these suggestions.
When to wash your towels
You might think you’re clean when you get out of the bath, but bad as it sounds, bath towels not only absorb water but also sweat, dead skin cells and bacteria.
So, your towels should ideally be washed every three days, or at least, changed over with the dirty towels dried before they are put into the laundry hamper for washing day. Otherwise you risk mold growing on your towels.
How to wash your towels
Check the wash instructions tag or label before washing or drying for specific requirements, but as with all linen and clothes, separate the white and colors before washing.
Towels should also be washed separately to the clothes you wear – although not necessarily to sheets and other linen. This avoids transferring any bacteria.
Ensure there’s plenty of extra room in the washer for towels to move about in plenty of water and so the machine’s drum won’t be damaged.
This is especially important in front loader washers as soapy residue can build up if there’s not enough water in the towel cycle. In worst cases, you could end up with a suds explosion, so don’t go overboard on detergent.
Wash towels in warm or hot water – the hotter, the better, to ensure detergent doesn’t accumulate. This will ensure your towels emerge from the cycle soft and fluffy, rather than stiff and crunchy.
Finally, dry towels immediately after the cycle finishes, shaking them out thoroughly before hanging out or adding to the dryer.
Soft and fluffy results
Talking softness: the verdict from the experts is not to use fabric softener. Instead, they recommend to add white vinegar to the wash as this will break down soapy residue – the key enemy of soft fluffiness.
White vinegar will also break down hard water minerals, while baking soda will neutralise odours including that of a vinegar wash.