You don’t want bacteria on your towels. However, if you make a mistake while washing them, even your freshly washed towels can become a breeding ground for germs.
Towels are among the most frequently used items in the household. Whether for drying hands, after showering, or washing hair – they are used daily and often by different people.
In the damp bathroom, they provide ideal conditions for germs that can multiply unnoticed in the textiles. After drying off, skin flakes, dirt, and body secretions remain in the towel, leading to an accumulation of bacteria and sometimes even viruses.
Additionally, fecal bacteria spread throughout the bathroom after each toilet flush and can end up on the towels if the toilet lid is not closed.
For this reason, it’s important to change towels regularly (ideally every three days, daily if ill) and wash them at a minimum of 60 degrees Celsius.
Washing Towels: The Right Amount of Detergent Matters
It’s not just hot water that ensures clean towels. The right amount of detergent is also crucial, as using too much can make your towel dirtier with each wash.
If you use too much detergent, residues can build up in the fibers, trapping dirt and bacteria in the towel. Additionally, the textiles can become stiff and develop an unpleasant odor. If you’re unsure, simply check the detergent packaging for exact dosages for powder, gel, or tabs.
Be sure to avoid fabric softeners and dryer sheets, as they leave residues and can impair the towels’ absorbency.
