Let’s face it: we’ve all been guilty of using a towel far longer than we should. Whether it’s a dish towel in the kitchen or a bath towel in the bathroom, sometimes they don’t get washed as frequently as they need to be. You might even give them a quick “smell test” before using them, hoping they’re still fresh. But how often should you really be cleaning your towels? It turns out the answer could impact your hygiene more than you think.

Why Towel Hygiene Matters More Than You Think

When we think about towels, we often don’t associate them with bacteria or mold—but they can be major culprits. Towels, especially those left in moist environments like bathrooms, can quickly become breeding grounds for bacteria, mold, and mildew. This is primarily due to the damp, humid conditions that allow germs to thrive.

According to cleaning expert Peter Walsh, the issue isn’t necessarily the towel itself but rather the environment it’s kept in. “The issue is not so much the towel, it’s the wet, moist environment where there’s lots of humidity in the bathroom,” Walsh says. If you’re leaving towels in a humid space for too long without washing, you’re essentially providing the perfect environment for bacteria to multiply.

How Often Should You Wash Your Towels?

So, how often should you be tossing your towels into the wash? Experts recommend washing bath towels after every three to four uses. Dish towels, on the other hand, should be washed more frequently—ideally, after each day of use, especially if you’re using them to clean kitchen surfaces.

It might seem like overkill, but this frequency helps reduce the chances of bacteria buildup. Each time you use a towel, particularly a bath towel, it collects dead skin cells and bacteria from your body. Over time, this can lead to odors and even mold growth if the towel doesn’t dry properly between uses.

Why Folding Wet Towels Is a Bad Idea

One of the most common mistakes people make with towels is folding them while they’re still damp. This traps moisture in the fabric, making it harder for the towel to dry fully. Walsh points out that folded towels in the bathroom often don’t get a chance to dry out, and as a result, they stay damp for longer, creating the ideal environment for bacteria to grow.

Instead of folding damp towels, it’s a good idea to hang them up immediately after use, ensuring they have plenty of air circulation. If possible, use a towel rack that allows the towels to spread out rather than a hook where they’re bunched together. This small change can significantly reduce the growth of bacteria and mold on your towels.

Signs It’s Time to Wash Your Towels

Aside from a regular washing schedule, there are some clear signs that it’s time to toss your towels into the laundry. One of the most obvious is smell. If your towel smells musty or damp even after it’s dried, it’s likely harboring bacteria and needs a wash.

Another sign is the feel of the towel. If it feels slimy or doesn’t absorb water as well as it used to, it’s time for a thorough cleaning. Over time, soap residue and oils from your skin can build up in the fibers, making the towel less effective.

Best Practices for Washing Towels

When it comes to washing your towels, there are a few best practices you can follow to ensure they stay fresh and bacteria-free. First, make sure to wash towels in hot water. This helps kill any germs and removes dirt and residue. Adding a bit of white vinegar during the rinse cycle can also help break down any soap buildup and keep towels soft.

Use a fragrance-free detergent, especially if you have sensitive skin, to avoid irritation. And don’t overstuff the washing machine—towels need plenty of space to move around and get fully cleaned. Finally, make sure to dry your towels completely before folding or storing them. Any leftover moisture can lead to mildew and odors.

Expert Tips for Keeping Your Towels Fresh

Peter Walsh offers some additional tips to keep your towels smelling fresh and clean. He recommends avoiding fabric softeners, as they can leave a residue on towels that reduces their absorbency. Instead, you can use dryer balls to help keep towels fluffy and soft without compromising their ability to absorb moisture.

He also suggests rotating your towels regularly. If you have multiple towels, switch them out every few days so they have time to fully dry and air out before their next use. This simple habit can extend the life of your towels and keep them fresher for longer.

The Bottom Line: Don’t Wait Too Long to Wash

While it might be tempting to stretch the time between towel washes, doing so can lead to unwanted bacteria and unpleasant odors. By washing your bath towels every three to four uses and dish towels daily, you can ensure that your towels remain fresh, clean, and hygienic. Make sure to hang them properly after each use and avoid folding them while they’re still damp to prevent bacteria growth.

With these simple changes, you’ll not only keep your towels smelling great, but you’ll also reduce the spread of germs in your home. So, if you’ve been guilty of letting your towels go a little too long without a wash, now’s the perfect time to refresh your routine and keep your household healthier and cleaner.