It’s common knowledge that over time, your face and bath towels will start to develop unsightly yellow stains and a slimy texture. But before you throw them out, know that there’s a way to fix this issue. The problem arises due to the dampness of the towels and their prolonged exposure to bathroom humidity, which provides an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive and damage the fabric.
Additionally, our skin constantly sheds dead cells, and when you use a towel to dry your face, these cells get transferred onto the fabric. If you don’t wash your towels regularly, the accumulated dead cells can turn moldy, resulting in a slimy texture, unpleasant odors, and even skin allergies. That’s why it’s crucial to know how to properly clean your face and bath towels, and we’re here to share some effective methods.
Clean your towels with salt water
Salt is a common kitchen ingredient in Vietnamese households, and it has more uses than you think. If your towels have developed yellow stains and a slimy feel, simply soak them in a tub of water with a handful of salt. Add some soap and let the towels soak for 10-15 minutes. Then, gently scrub the towels to remove any remaining dirt and rinse them with clean water. Squeeze out the excess water and hang the towels to dry in a well-ventilated area. This method will leave your towels fresh, white, and odor-free.
Soak towels in white vinegar
White vinegar is a powerful tool for removing unpleasant odors and yellow stains from towels. Create a solution by mixing one part vinegar with ten parts water, and soak your towels in it for 15-20 minutes. Afterward, wash the towels with detergent to eliminate any remaining dirt. Be careful not to use too much vinegar, as a highly concentrated solution can leave a sour taste that requires multiple rinses to remove.
Regular disinfection
To ensure your towels are thoroughly clean, disinfect them by popping them into the microwave for about 2 minutes or until completely dry. Alternatively, you can soak them in hot water once a week to deep clean and remove any stubborn dirt. According to experts, it’s recommended to replace your face towels every three months to maintain good hygiene and prevent the buildup of bacteria, which can be detrimental to your skin and overall health.
Air dry towels in the sun
Bathrooms are typically humid, providing an ideal environment for bacterial growth. To combat this, hang your towels outside to dry in the sunlight, which has natural disinfectant properties. This will not only kill bacteria but also ensure your towels are thoroughly dried.
Furthermore, it’s recommended that each family member has their own face towel, as everyone’s skin type is unique—some have oily skin, while others have dry or acne-prone skin. By using separate towels, you reduce the risk of cross-contamination, as bacteria from bath towels can transfer to face towels, leading to acne breakouts and skin irritation. Keep your face towels separate from other towels and maintain a healthy skincare routine.