When it comes to laundry routines, few items spark as much debate as towels. Should you toss them in the hamper after every use, or can they hang for a few days? According to Elizabeth Shields, operations manager at Super Cleaning Service Louisville, the answer depends on the type of towel and how it's used.
Shields, who oversees professional cleaning operations, notes that while most household towels don't require washing after each use, there are exceptions. Beach and pool towels, for instance, should be washed after every single use. "Beach towels should be washed after every use because of the sand, sunscreen, sweat, chlorine, and saltwater," Shields explains. "Even if it doesn't look dirty, it's been through a lot."
For dish towels, the frequency is higher due to their contact with food and potentially contaminated surfaces. Shields recommends swapping them out daily or every other day to maintain kitchen hygiene. Bath towels, on the other hand, can be used three to five times before washing, provided they are hung to dry completely between uses to prevent bacteria and mildew growth. Hand towels in bathrooms should be washed every two to three days, especially since multiple people may use them and they may not dry as quickly.
Signs Your Towel Needs a Wash
Beyond visible dirt, Shields points to a few telltale signs that a towel is overdue for a cleaning. "A musty scent is a dead giveaway that a towel needs a good wash," she says. "Also, if it takes forever to dry or feels damp even hours later, something's off." These symptoms often indicate the onset of bacteria or mildew, making it wise to wash the towel promptly, even if it hasn't been used many times.
Best Practices for Washing Towels
Proper washing techniques can extend the life of your towels and keep them fresh. Shields advises separating kitchen and bathroom towels into different loads to avoid cross-contamination. Sorting by color—light and dark—is also recommended, especially for new, colorful towels that may bleed during their first wash.
Water temperature matters: warm or hot water is generally best, but Shields specifically recommends hot water for dish towels to tackle grease, germs, and food stains. A mild detergent that cleans without stripping softness is ideal. For particularly dirty dish towels, a stronger degreasing detergent may be necessary, and Shields suggests adding a scoop of baking soda to neutralize odors if needed.
One product Shields avoids entirely is fabric softener. These chemical additives can leave residue in the fibers over time, reducing absorbency. Instead, she recommends adding half a cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle to soften and freshen towels without buildup.
Finally, drying towels on medium or high heat gives a soft, fluffy result. But Shields warns against over-drying. "Nothing worse than towels that feel stiff! Once the dryer stops, take them out right away and shake to smooth out wrinkles."
Following these guidelines can help maintain towel hygiene and extend their lifespan, ensuring they remain fresh and functional for daily use.
