How often towels should be washed

Short answer: After three to four uses, if the towel dries completely in between. If it does not dry, it has to be washed after every use, however little it has been used.

Drying decides the interval

A towel that hangs spread out and dries completely can be used several times. One that stays damp starts to smell after two uses. See bamboo towels.

Hang it spread out

Folded double, the middle never dries. That is where the smell starts. A rail beats a hook. See home and homewear in bamboo.

One towel each

If two people share a towel, it never gets time to dry. That is the most common reason towels smell.

60 degrees occasionally

A hot wash a few times a year resets smell that has settled in. Day to day 40 degrees is enough. See washing and care.

No fabric softener

The film binds odour compounds and ruins the absorbency. It is the one thing that does the most damage. See bamboo bedding.

Frequently asked questions

How often should towels be washed?

After three to four uses, if they dry completely in between.

Why do my towels smell?

Because they do not dry completely. Hang them spread out over a rail.

Should everyone have their own towel?

Yes. A shared towel never gets time to dry between uses.