Bath towels are an essential part of everyday life that offers comfort and hygiene after a refreshing shower. However, to maintain their softness, absorbency, and life span, it’s important to be knowledgeable on how to properly wash them. This guide will walk you through the best practices for washing bath towels so that they stay fresh and fluffy in the long run.
Why Proper Care Matters
Towels are used daily to absorb moisture from our skin which makes them prone to bacteria, mold, and foul odors if not cleaned properly. Towels that aren’t taken care of can lose their absorbency, become rough on the skin and start to smell foul over time.
Proper care of your towels can extend their lifespan. It keeps the fibers intact which also preserves their softness. This is necessary if you’ve invested in expensive and luxury bath towels, and you want to use them for a long time. By following the correct washing techniques, you can keep your towels in top shape and hygienic.
What You’ll Need for Washing
To properly care for your towels, you will need:
- A washing machine with temperature settings
- Mild detergent
- White vinegar for a natural softener
- Dryer
- Brush with soft bristles for spot cleaning stains
- Fabric mesh bag for delicate towels (optional)
Washing Bath Towels
- Separate Towels by Color
To keep your towels looking bright and prevent discoloration, it is advised to separate them by color. Whites should be washed separately from darker-colored towels. Darker towels can bleed during the wash that’s why whites must be totally separate.
- Wash with Warm Water
Warm water is the best for cleaning bath towels. It removes oils, dirt, and residue without causing damage to the towel fibers compared to hot water. Hot water can kill more bacteria, but it can be too harsh on the fabric and cause towels to fray and lose their softness. Cold water can be used for colored towels to prevent fading but may not clean as thoroughly as compared to warm water.
For heavily soiled towels, you may use hot water but limit this to every few washes to avoid over-exposure to high temperatures.
- Use the Right Amount of Detergent
Less is more when it comes to using detergents. Using too much detergent can leave soap residue on your towels which can cause them to feel stiff and non-absorbent. Modern washing machines typically requires less detergent so make sure you adjust the amount according to your machine’s specifications. Lastly, opt for a mild and fragrance-free detergent. Strong perfumes can cling to the towel fibers and reduce their softness over time.
- Add White Vinegar for Extra Softness
White vinegar is a great option when it comes to keeping towels soft. Add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle of your washing machine. Vinegar helps break down detergent and fabric softener residues that leaves your towels soft and free from residue buildup. Additionally, vinegar has natural deodorizing properties which helps neutralize any unpleasant smells.
- Avoid Fabric Softeners
Fabric softeners should be avoided when washing bath towels. Fabric softeners make fabrics feel softer, but they contain silicone that coats towel fibers which can reduce their absorbency over time. This coating creates a barrier on the fabric that prevents the towels from absorbing water.
- Shake Towels Before Drying
Once your towels are fully washed, give them a good shake before putting them into the dryer. This helps fluff the towel fibers and prevents them from clumping together which can result in a stiffness or roughness. Shaking the towels will also help them dry more evenly and quicker.
- Dry Towels Properly
Dry your towels on a medium heat setting in the dryer for best results. Over-drying towels on high heat can damage the fibers and cause them to have rough texture. However, if you prefer to air-dry your towels hang them in a well-ventilated area or outdoors. Make sure they are completely dry before folding and storing to prevent unwanted odors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid when Washing Towels
It’s easy to make mistakes when washing bath towels even with the best intentions. Here are a few common errors to avoid:
- Overloading the Washer: Overloading your washing machine with too many towels in a single wash can prevent them from getting thoroughly cleaned. Towels need adequate space to move around during the wash to ensure that it is thoroughly cleaned.
- Skipping the Rinse Cycle: Skipping the rinse cycle or not using enough water during the rinse can leave soap and dirt in the towel fibers. This can lead to stiffness, odors, and towels being non-absorbent.
Bath Towel Washing FAQs
- How Often Should I Wash My Bath Towels?
Bath towels are preferably washed after every three to four uses. Towels that are used more frequently and left damp for extended periods may need to be washed more often to prevent the buildup of bacteria and odors.
- Can I Wash Bath Towels with Other Garments?
It’s best to wash towels separately from other garments. Towels can shed a lot of lint which can annoyingly transfer onto clothes. Additionally, towels require a different water temperature and detergent concentration than more delicate fabrics. Therefore, it’s best to wash them separately for the best results.
- Why Do My Bath Towels Smell Bad Even After Washing?
If your towels still smell bad after washing, it could be due to detergent buildup or incomplete drying. Try washing them with vinegar or baking soda to remove the foul odor and make sure they are completely dry before storing.
Conclusion
Proper care is essential for maintaining your bath towel’s quality and prolong lifespan. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can keep using your towels for years to come. With an extra effort, your towels will continue to provide the comfort and luxury you deserve just like when you first bought it.
For more towel care tips and high-quality towel products please visit Cantex Distribution. Let us help you keep your bath linen in top condition!