Washing towels correctly is important for hygiene, quality and lifespan. With the right washing method, towels stay soft, absorb moisture well and retain their appearance for longer. If washed incorrectly, towels accumulate bacteria, harden and quickly lose their absorbency. In this article, we will go through towel care instructions, suitable washing temperatures for different materials, the right detergents and drying methods.
Why is washing towels properly so important?
Proper washing of towels directly affects their hygiene, lifespan and quality. Bacteria multiply quickly in a damp towel, and if washed incorrectly, they are not removed properly. With the right washing method, towels remain soft and absorbent for up to years, while improperly cared for towels harden and lose their properties within a few months.
Bacterial build-up on towels is a major hygiene problem. A damp towel is an ideal breeding ground for microbes, and without sufficient washing temperature, they will not be destroyed. Towels can harbor millions of bacteria if they are not washed properly. This can cause skin problems, unpleasant odors and, in the worst case, infections.
The wear and tear of the material when washed incorrectly is visible as the structure of the towel breaks down. Too high a temperature or strong detergents can damage the fibers, while too low a temperature will not remove dirt effectively. Washing terry towels requires special attention, as their loops can break if handled incorrectly.
Economically, proper towel washing saves significant money. Well-maintained towels can last up to 5-10 years, while poorly maintained ones need to be replaced annually. In professional use, such as in hotels and restaurants, the lifespan of towels is especially important for cost control.
At what temperature should towels be washed?
The washing temperature of towels depends on the material and the degree of soiling. Cotton towels can withstand a 60-90 degree wash, microfiber towels can be washed at 40-60 degrees, and bamboo towels at 40 degrees. To ensure hygiene, it is recommended to wash at least 60 degrees , but the durability of the material must always be taken into account.
Cotton towels are the most durable and suitable for hot washing. White cotton towels can be washed at up to 90 degrees, which effectively destroys all bacteria. Colored cotton towels should be washed at 60 degrees to preserve the colors. Hotel-quality towels are designed to withstand repeated hot washing.
Microfiber towels require gentler handling. They lose their absorbency when washed too hot, so 40-60 degrees is optimal. The special properties of microfiber are best preserved at lower temperatures, and they dry quickly due to their natural structure.
Bamboo towels are sensitive to high temperatures. They are washed at 40 degrees to preserve their natural antibacterial properties. The structure of the bamboo fiber can be damaged in hot water, so gentle washing is essential.
What detergent should I use for towels?
For towels, liquid detergent without fabric softener is best. Powdered detergents can leave residue on the fibers, and fabric softener reduces the absorbency of the towel. Bleach is only used on white towels, and eco-friendly detergents are suitable for all towel materials.
Liquid detergents dissolve better in water and rinse more effectively from fibers. They don't leave white residue on towels, which is a common problem with powder detergents. They are also easier to dispense and distribute the detergent evenly throughout the load.
Using fabric softener on towels is not recommended. It leaves a film on the fibers that prevents water from being absorbed effectively. The absorbency of a towel can be reduced by up to 40 percent as a result of regular use of fabric softener. If you want soft towels, use vinegar in the fabric softener compartment instead.
Bleach is only suitable for white cotton towels. Oxygen bleach is a gentler alternative to chlorine bleach and is also suitable for colored towels. Ecological detergents are good options when you want to avoid chemicals and save the environment.
How to properly dry towels after washing?
Towels are best dried in a tumble dryer on medium heat or by hanging in a well-ventilated area. Tumble drying makes the towels soft, while air drying saves energy. Too high a drying temperature damages the fibers, and damp towels start to smell bad.
Using a tumble dryer is the most effective way to get soft towels. A medium setting is enough for most towels, and a few tennis balls in the drum will help air circulation. It is a good idea to take the towels out of the drum slightly damp and let them air dry to keep them soft for longer.
Air drying is an ecological option and saves the fibers of the towels. The towels are hung straight, avoiding folds that slow down drying. Good air circulation is essential so that the towels dry evenly and do not start to smell musty. Drying outside gives a fresh scent.
Drying towels indoors requires sufficient space and ventilation. The drying rack should be placed away from damp areas, and the towels should be spread out properly. Drying on a radiator hardens the towels, so it is not recommended. In professional use, efficient drying is especially important to ensure hygiene.
How often should towels be washed?
Bath towels should be washed after 3-4 uses, hand towels every 2-3 days, and face towels daily or every other day. The frequency of washing depends on the frequency of use, humidity, and personal hygiene habits. In professional use, towels are changed after each client.
Bath towels need to be washed because of the build-up of moisture and skin cells. If the towel does not dry properly between uses, it will need to be washed more often. The smell is a clear sign that it needs washing, as is the sticky feel of the towel. In families, it is recommended that everyone use their own towel for hygiene reasons.
Hand towels get dirty quickly because they are used by many people. They come into contact with many hands every day, so the risk of bacteria is higher. In humid environments, hand towels require more frequent washing than in dry conditions.
In professional use, hygiene recommendations are strict. In hotels and restaurants, towels are changed daily or after each customer. In healthcare, towels are disposable or washed at a particularly hot temperature. In home use, normal washing frequency is sufficient , as long as the towels dry properly between uses. The Sisustus1 online store offers high-quality towels that can withstand frequent washing. You can also view the products at the Helsinki showroom .
Proper care of towels ensures their longevity and hygiene. Regular washing at the right temperature, using the right detergents and careful drying will keep towels soft and absorbent for years. Investing in quality towels and their proper care will save you money and significantly improve your comfort.
