Are your towels feeling rough, smelling funky, or losing their absorbency? You might be guilty of some all-too-common laundry blunders. We’ve all been there – thinking we’re doing our best to keep our towels clean and fresh, only to find them less than satisfactory after washing.
From overloading the machine to using too much detergent, these common missteps can turn your favorite bath linens into stiff, smelly disappointments.
Here are the top 10 mistakes people make when washing their towels, along with advice on how to avoid them.
1. Overdoing It with Detergent
You might think that more detergent equals cleaner towels, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Excessive detergent use can leave your towels feeling stiff and less absorbent.
When too much detergent is used, it can leave a residue on your towels, making them feel rough and compromising their ability to absorb water. This buildup can also trap bacteria and odors, defeating the purpose of washing them in the first place.
To avoid this, use a gentle detergent and stick to the recommended amount – usually less than you’d think is necessary.
2. Cramming the Washing Machine
We’ve all been tempted to stuff as many towels as possible into the washing machine to save time. However, this practice can lead to inadequate cleaning and rinsing.
Overloading the machine prevents towels from moving freely during the wash cycle, resulting in soap and dirt particles getting trapped in the fabric.
This can make your towels feel stiff and reduce their absorbency. Wash your towels in smaller loads, giving them ample space to agitate and rinse properly.
3. Using Fabric Softener
While using fabric softeners might seem like a good idea for achieving soft, fluffy towels, they actually do more harm than good. Fabric softeners coat the fibers of towels, reducing their absorbency over time.
Instead of reaching for fabric softener, use natural alternatives like white vinegar or baking soda. These options can help soften your towels without leaving any residue or compromising their ability to absorb water.
Your towels will thank you for skipping the fabric softener and opting for these gentler alternatives.
4. Skipping the Extra Rinse
In our rush to finish laundry day, we often overlook the importance of a thorough rinse cycle. Failing to include an extra rinse can leave detergent residue on your towels, leading to various issues.
The extra rinse cycle is crucial for removing all traces of detergent from your towels. Without it, you risk buildup that can cause skin irritation and decrease the towels’ softness and absorbency.
Take the time to add that extra rinse – your towels (and your skin) will appreciate the extra effort.
5. Drying on High Heat
We all love the feeling of warm, toasty towels fresh from the dryer. However, consistently using high heat settings can damage the fibers of your towels, leading to premature wear and tear.
High temperatures can cause the fibers in your towels to break down faster, resulting in fraying and decreased absorbency. To extend the life of your towels, opt for lower heat settings or even air-drying when possible.
Your towels will maintain their quality for much longer, saving you money in the long run.
6. Neglecting to Shake & Fluff
It might seem like a small detail, but forgetting to shake your towels well after drying can impact their overall feel and appearance. This simple step is often overlooked but can make a significant difference.
Shaking out your towels after drying helps to loosen any remaining particles and restores their natural fluffiness. Without this step, your towels may feel stiff and flat rather than soft and plush.
Take a moment to give each towel a hearty shake before folding – your future self will appreciate the extra fluffiness.
7. Washing Towels with Other Laundry
While tossing your towels in with the rest of your laundry might seem efficient, this practice can lead to less-than-ideal results for your towels and other clothes.
Towels are typically heavier and absorbent than other clothing items, requiring different washing conditions. Mixing them with lighter fabrics can result in inadequate towel cleaning and potential damage to your other clothes.
Wash your towels separately for best results, giving them the specific care they need.
8. Ignoring Color Separation
We all know the golden rule of laundry – separate lights and darks. However, many people overlook this rule when it comes to towels, assuming it doesn’t matter as much.
Washing colored towels with white ones can lead to subtle discoloration over time. Even if you don’t notice it immediately, your white towels may gradually appear dingy.
Always separate your towels into whites and colors before washing them to maintain their vibrant appearance.
9. Forgetting to Clean the Washing Machine
Your washing machine works hard to keep your towels clean, but have you ever considered that it might need cleaning, too? A dirty washing machine can transfer grime and bacteria to your towels, defeating the purpose of washing them.
Regular washing machine cleaning can prevent the buildup of detergent residue, mold, and mildew. Run an empty cycle with hot water, vinegar, or a specialized washing machine cleaner once a month to keep your machine in top condition.
This simple maintenance step will ensure your towels come out truly clean and fresh every time.
10. Not Prepping Towels Before Washing
Tossing your towels straight into the washing machine without any preparation might seem like a time-saver, but it can lead to less effective cleaning.
Taking a moment to shake out your towels before washing can remove loose dirt and hair, allowing the detergent to work more effectively. Additionally, unfolding any bunched-up areas ensures water and detergent can reach all parts of the towel.
This small step can make a big difference in the cleanliness and freshness of your towels.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.