How Often Should You Change Your Towel?

By Cole Purvis
How often do you clean your towels?

Towels are a cornerstone of maintaining good personal hygiene, used daily to dry off after a shower or bath. But how often should you replace your towel with a fresh one? Is it after one day, three days or longer? Surprisingly, this common household item can become a haven for bacteria, mold and unpleasant odors if not cared for properly. Here’s what you need to know to keep your towels — and yourself — clean and healthy.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU CHANGE YOUR TOWEL?

According to the American Cleaning Institute, you should wash your bath towel after three to five uses, assuming it is hung up to dry thoroughly between uses. If the towel is left damp or folded in a way that traps moisture, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, meaning you might need to replace it more frequently.

For people with sensitive skin, acne-prone areas or compromised immune systems, using a fresh towel daily can help minimize exposure to harmful microbes. Similarly, gym towels or those used in humid environments may need washing after each use.

WHAT GROWS ON YOUR TOWEL?

Towels are uniquely designed to absorb water, making them a perfect environment for microbial growth. Here are some common culprits that thrive on damp towels:

Bacteria: Towels can harbor Escherichia coli (E. coli), Staphylococcus aureus (staph) and other bacteria from your skin or the bathroom environment.

Fungi: Moisture-loving fungi, like those that cause athlete’s foot or ringworm, can thrive on wet towels.

Mold and Mildew: If towels don’t dry properly, mold spores can accumulate, leading to musty smells and potential allergens.

SOME LOCATIONS CLOSER TO HOME INCLUDE:

Using a dirty towel can reintroduce bacteria and dirt onto your freshly cleaned skin, potentially leading to skin irritation, clogged pores, or infections. Sharing towels only compounds the problem, as it spreads germs from one person to another.

HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR TOWELS:

1. Hang Them Properly: After each use, hang towels in a well- ventilated area, preferably on a towel rack where they can spread out to dry completely. Avoid leaving them bunched up or on the floor.

2. Wash Regularly: Use hot water and a quality detergent to clean towels, especially if they’ve been used after exercise or by someone who is ill. Adding white vinegar to the wash can help eliminate odors and bacteria.

3. Avoid Fabric Softeners: While tempting, fabric softeners can leave residue on towels, reducing their absorbency and trapping bacteria.

4. Replace Worn Towels: Towels lose their effectiveness over time. Replace them when they become rough, thin, or no longer smell fresh even after washing.

WHEN TO USE A NEW TOWEL

For the average person, swapping out towels every three to five days is a safe rule of thumb. However, if your towel feels damp, starts to smell, or if you’re recovering from an illness, change it more frequently.

Maintaining proper towel hygiene is a small but significant step toward protecting your health. By understanding how often to replace your towel and how to care for it, you can ensure every shower ends with a truly fresh, clean finish.

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