When should you wash your towels? Turns out we've been getting it wrong for years.
According to experts, for those at risk of infection or with weakened immune systems, it's essential to wash towels after each use. "Even if towels are cleaned, the dirt, sweat, and germs left from your skin accumulate when they're reused, posing a health risk," Dr. Freestone said. Towels create a favorable environment for bacterial growth not only when they come into contact with your skin but also because they're frequently damp. Because towel fabric is thicker than bed linens, it's even easier for bacteria to grow. In humid environments, fungi and bacteria can multiply rapidly, causing towels to emit a foul odor as they're used.
One study revealed that a single-use bath towel contains high levels of bacteria like E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Klebsiella, which can lead to dangerous infections. Dr. Freestone noted that constantly damp towels create a favorable environment for the growth of bacteria and fungi, warning, “Because towels come into contact with every part of the body, they are particularly susceptible to accumulating microorganisms.” ODOR AND CLEANING Constantly used towels can also cause mold and foul odors due to their moist environment. “These odors are caused by detergent and fabric softener residue combined with sweat or body fluids,” Dr. Freestone added. “These odors are caused by waste products produced by bacteria and fungi.”
To prevent the spread of infections, experts emphasize that bath towels should never be shared. Viral infections, such as monkeypox, can be easily transmitted this way. Hand towels should also be washed regularly, as germs from hands accumulate on these towels as long as they are in contact with skin. THE MOST EFFECTIVE CLEANING METHOD FOR TOWELS : Dr. Freestone recommends washing towels at 60°C with laundry detergent. This temperature helps kill bacteria and fungi, and also inactivates viruses. Towels should be completely dried before use and stored in a cool, dry environment.
Towels should be washed more frequently than bed linens. If a foul odor persists after washing, they may have been left in the washing machine too long. Venter recommends drying towels and bedding in the sun, as this quickly removes moisture and keeps the towels fresh with a clean cotton scent.
Maintaining good personal hygiene isn't just a part of your daily cleaning routine; it also plays a crucial role in maintaining your health. Experts recommend washing your towels regularly to help protect against unpleasant odors and germs.
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