How many towels a household needs

Short answer: Two large and two small per person plus a guest set. That gives one set in use, one in the wash and one clean in the cupboard without taking up unnecessary space.

Three sets in rotation

One in use, one in the wash and one clean. Fewer puts pressure on laundry day. See bamboo towels.

Towels have to dry between uses

A wet towel that does not dry starts to smell within two days. See bamboo bed linen.

Small towels are used most often

Hand towels are changed more frequently than bath towels. See bamboo clothing for women.

One colour each makes sorting easy

One colour per person means nobody uses the wrong towel. See bamboo t-shirts for women.

Frequently asked questions

How many towels should you have?

Two large and two small per person plus a guest set. That gives three sets in rotation.

How often should a bath towel be washed?

After three to four uses if it dries fully between them. Otherwise more often.

Why do towels smell?

Because they do not dry fully between uses. Moisture in the pile produces odour within days.