There’s nothing quite like wrapping yourself in a soft, fresh-smelling towel after a shower. Here are four top tips for keeping your towels clean and well-maintained to ensure they stay in tip-top condition.
Methods to Keep Your Towels Clean and Fragrant
Count Usage, Not Days Between Washes
When deciding how often to wash your towels, pay attention to how many times you’ve used them, not the number of days that have passed since the last wash. Aim to wash your towels after every three uses. To minimize wear and tear, be sure to rotate a few towels throughout the week.
Skip the Extras (and Go Easy on the Detergent!)
While we’ve previously warned against using fabric softener and dryer sheets, it’s especially important to avoid them when washing towels. Fabric softener can leave a waxy residue that actually prevents your towels from absorbing water. Additionally, it’s best to wash towels with a detergent amount equal to about half of what you’d use for a similar load of laundry, as too much detergent can make your towels feel “wooden.”
Wash Towels Separately in Temperature-Appropriate Water
Many people struggle to keep their towels white and soft, and the key here is water temperature. White towels can be washed in hot water, but colored towels should be washed in warm water to prevent fading and fiber breakdown. Towels should also be washed and dried separately from other laundry items, so you can monitor their unique detergent needs and drying times – keeping them softer and smoother for longer.
Don’t Skimp on Drying Time
Moisture breeds bacteria, so make sure your towels are completely dry before storing or using them. (However, don’t leave them in the dryer too long, as this can damage the fibers.) Between washes and dries, wring out any excess water. If your towels aren’t completely dry after a cycle, let them air-dry for the remainder of the time. If you notice a musty smell, skip the detergent and wash your towels with half a cup of baking soda instead to neutralize odors.