Mathilde Lacombe

Bath towels are a staple in every household, but with daily use, they can quickly accumulate dirt, sweat, and bacteria, even after frequent washes. While it may be tempting to hold on to your favourite towels for as long as possible, experts recommend replacing them regularly to maintain optimal hygiene and functionality.

In fact, even the highest quality towels have a lifespan, and failing to replace them can lead to unpleasant odours, decreased absorbency, and potential health hazards. So, how can you tell if it’s time to say goodbye to your old bath towels? Here are some key indicators to look out for, ensuring that you have fresh, clean towels to wrap yourself in after every shower.

Why Is Cleaning Towel Important?

Bathroom towels play an essential role in our daily hygiene routine. After all, they are what we use to dry ourselves off when we are at our cleanest. However, using a towel that is not properly cared for can quickly undo all our efforts to stay clean and healthy. Moisture retention in towels can lead to the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, which can cause skin irritation, acne, and even spread illnesses.

If you or someone in your household is sick, using a shared towel can increase the risk of infection. To avoid these risks, it’s crucial to follow proper towel care practices, including regular washing, adequate drying, replacing them or using towels with antimicrobial properties when necessary. By doing so, you can ensure that your towels remain a source of comfort and cleanliness, rather than a breeding ground for germs.

How Often Should You Wash Your Towels?

Maintaining clean and hygienic towels is crucial for our health and well-being. Frequent washing is key to minimizing bacteria growth and preventing the spread of infections. However, washing towels is not just about throwing them in the laundry; proper washing techniques are essential to ensure they are effectively cleaned.

Ideally, bath towels should be washed every three or four uses, but it’s important to note that this timeframe only applies if you spread the towel out to dry fully after each use. Leaving towels bunched up prevents moisture from drying out, providing a breeding ground for bacteria to grow much faster.

When washing towels, it’s recommended to use hot water and run them through two cycles. The first cycle should be with vinegar and water to remove any odours and buildup. The second cycle should be with regular detergent to ensure a deep clean. Following these guidelines can help ensure that your towels remain clean, fresh, and safe for use.

Signs You Need New Bath Towels:

1. Your Towels Are a Few Years Old

When was the last time you treated yourself to new bath towels? If you’re struggling to recall, it’s probably time to refresh your linen closet. High-quality towels can last up to two years with proper care, but frequent use and washing can take a toll on their lifespan.

Over time, towels become less absorbent, and their fibers break down, leading to a rough and scratchy texture. Replacing your towels regularly not only ensures that you have fresh and absorbent towels but also helps maintain the towel and its optimal hygiene. So, if it’s been a while since you’ve updated your bath towels, consider treating yourself to a new set to elevate your daily self-care routine.

2. Your Towels Stopped Being Absorbent

Bathroom towels are an essential part of our daily routine, serving the purpose of drying us off after a bath or shower. However, if you find that your modern towels are no longer doing their job effectively, it may be time for a replacement. Over time, towels lose their absorbency and become less efficient at drying you off. If you’re experiencing this, it’s not a reflection of your body, but rather an indication that your towels have reached the end of their lifespan.

3. Your Towels Feel Scratchy

Think back to when you first started using your current bath towels. Remember how they felt soft, fluffy, and velvety to the touch? Fast forward a few months or years, and the once-luxurious towels may have lost their plush sensation. Well, this could be due to a buildup of body oils and detergents within the fabric, which can cause the towels to feel stiff and rough. If you’ve recently noticed a change in texture, it could be a sign of hard water or that it’s time to switch up your laundry detergent.

4. There’s Mildew Spotting

Having proper ventilation in your bathroom is crucial to prevent mildew from growing on your towels. However, not all bathrooms are equipped with good ventilation systems. If you happen to notice mildew spots on your towels, it may be time to toss them out. To avoid this from continually happening, make sure to turn on the fan or open a window while showering, and keep it on for a while after as well. In the absence of either of these options, leaving the bathroom door open can help reduce moisture levels, which can be a contributing factor to mildew growth.

What To Look for While Purchasing a New Towel? 

When it comes to purchasing new towels, there are various factors to consider. If you’re on the lookout for towels that are soft and absorbent, keep in mind that they are generally thicker and heavier. While shopping online, take a look at the grams per square meter (GSM) to help you determine the thickness and absorbency of the towel. Towels with 300-400 GSM are lighter and dry quickly, whereas towels with 400-600 GSM are perfect for outdoor activities such as picnics and beach days. For a more luxurious feel, you can opt for towels with 600-900 GSM, which are denser, more absorbent, and take longer to dry.

Size is also a crucial consideration when it comes to purchasing towels. Standard bath towels from most retailers measure 27″ x 52″. If you prefer a larger and thicker towel, consider one that measures 30″ x 60″. Hand towels usually measure 16″ x 30″, while washcloths are more compact, around 13″ x 13″.

Final Thoughts 

Clean towels are a must-have in any household for both comfort and health purposes. If your towel is showing signs of wear and tear, now is the time to replace it. Not only will you feel more comfortable after a shower or bath, but you’ll also be able to sleep soundly knowing that your towel isn’t harboring any germs or bacteria. So don’t wait until it’s too late – invest in some new towels today!

Author Bio:

Rory Donnelly – Rory is the R&D Director and passionate entrepreneur, fascinated by the workings of the human body and natural solutions for common health problems. He’s single-minded in his aim to make Copper Defence a brand that’s recognized across the globe, by partnering with global brands to make these high-tech materials easily accessible for everyone. If you’d like to get in touch, email Rory at [email protected] or visit copperclothing.com for copper-infused clothing, pet accessories, and more.