To maintain proper hygiene, it’s not enough to just wash your bath towels regularly — you must wash them correctly.
Towels are essential in our daily hygiene routine, coming into direct contact with our skin. Keeping them clean and free from germs is vital for our health. Below, you’ll discover the most common mistake people make when washing towels, and the best practices for ensuring they’re truly clean.
The #1 Mistake to Avoid When Washing Towels
Many people wash their clothes at low temperatures to save energy and protect fabrics — but this method is not suitable for towels.
Towels retain moisture from frequent use and are often stored in warm, humid bathrooms — the perfect environment for bacteria, mold, and unpleasant odors to thrive.
Washing towels at low temperatures fails to kill these microorganisms. As a result, you may notice a persistent musty smell. The solution? Wash your bath towels at 60°C (140°F). This temperature effectively eliminates bacteria and viruses and also helps remove dead skin cells embedded in the fibers
When Should You Wash Towels at 60°C?
Experts recommend a 60°C wash for towels in the following situations:
After illness: If someone in your household has been sick, wash their towels at high heat to kill germs and prevent spreading.
Sports or swimming towels: These absorb sweat and moisture, making them hotspots for bacteria and fungi. Wash them after every use.
Shared towels: If multiple people use the same towel, frequent high-temperature washing is essential to
prevent cross-contamination.
Odorous towels: A bad smell indicates the presence of bacteria — a clear sign they need a deeper, hotter clean.
Will 60°C Washing Damage Your Towels?
Yes, frequent high-temperature washing can gradually affect towel fibers, making them less soft and shortening their lifespan. But in the case of towels, hygiene takes priority over preserving fabric softness.
Towels are used daily and come in direct contact with your skin, so keeping them free of bacteria and mold is more important than maintaining fluffiness.
That said, there are ways to reduce wear even when washing at 60°C:
Don’t overload the washing machine: Towels need space to move freely and rinse thoroughly.
Use a moderate amount of detergent: Too much soap can build up in the fibers, making them stiff and less absorbent.
Avoid heavy use of fabric softener: It can coat the fabric and reduce absorbency.
Air dry when possible: This saves energy and helps prevent moisture buildup in enclosed spaces, which can promote mold growth.
By avoiding common mistakes and washing your towels the right way, you’ll extend their life and protect your skin and health in the process.