Towels are a daily companion of our lives, but do we really know how often they should be washed? “The mistake that many make: how often to wash towels, according to the microbiologist” reveals that most of us wash towels too rarely, thus putting our health at risk. Microbiologists warn that towels can become a real breeding ground for bacteria and fungi if we do not follow proper hygiene. In this article, you will learn how often towels should be washed and how to do it correctly to protect yourself from unpleasant consequences.
1. Why do towels become a breeding ground for bacteria?
Towels absorb moisture, and a humid environment is an ideal medium for microorganisms to multiply. According to microbiologist Charles Gerba, towels are already contaminated with skin bacteria after several uses, as well as fecal bacteria such as E. coli, which get on the towel through the hands. Moisture, heat, and organic matter, such as skin cells, provide excellent conditions for bacteria and fungi to grow.
2. How often to wash towels?
Microbiologists recommend washing bath towels at least once a week, but it depends on the frequency and conditions of use. Charles Gerba says towels should be changed every three days, especially if they remain moist for a long time. Hand towels, which are often used in the kitchen or bathroom, should be washed even more often, every two days, because they are more likely to come into contact with dirty hands that can carry E. coli or even salmonella.
3. When to wash more often?
There are situations when towels need to be washed more often than usual:
- If someone in the house is sick (e.g. vomiting or diarrhoea), towels should be washed daily.
- If you have skin problems such as eczema or acne, wash towels after each use to prevent the spread of bacteria.
- If towels remain damp, e.g. stored in a damp bathroom or sports bag, they should be washed after one use.
4. How to wash towels properly?
For effective removal of germs, not only the frequency of washing is important, but also the process itself:
- Wash towels in hot water (40-60 °C), as high temperatures help to kill bacteria and fungi.
- Use a small amount of detergent – too much product may leave residue, which will reduce the absorbency of the towel and create a medium for bacteria. Experts recommend about 2 tablespoons of detergent per laundry.
- Avoid fabric softeners and drying sheets, as they can also reduce the absorbency of the towel.
- After washing, dry the towels in the dryer at high temperature or in the sun – this will naturally disinfect the fabric.
5. Common mistake: wet towel
One of the biggest mistakes is to leave a damp towel folded or throw it in a laundry bag. Moisture promotes the growth of bacteria, and the towel can begin to emit an unpleasant odor, which is a sign that germs are already breeding in it. Always hang the towel so that it can dry completely between uses, and do not store it in a damp bathroom.
6. What to do if the towel smells unpleasant?
If the towel begins to emit a moldy or sour odor, it means that fungi or bacteria are already growing in it. In this case:
- Rinse the towel in vinegar to eliminate odor and destroy germs.
- Wash in hot water with a detergent containing activated oxygen bleach (non-chlorine-based).
- Ensure that the towel dries completely after washing.
7. Additional tips
- Never share a towel with others, especially if someone is sick – this increases the risk of spreading infections such as MRSA.
- Clean the washing machine regularly, as it can also accumulate bacteria that are transferred to towels.
- Wash new towels before use, as manufacturers often use chemicals that can irritate the skin.
8. Why is it important?
Unwashed towels can become not only a source of unpleasant odor, but also pose a serious health risk. Microbiologists warn that dirty towels can carry pathogens that cause skin infections such as folliculitis or even more serious problems such as staphylococcal infections (MRSA). In addition, wet towels can become a breeding ground for fungi that cause allergies or skin irritations.
Conclusion
“The mistake that many make: how often to wash towels, according to the microbiologist” emphasizes that towel hygiene is much more important than it may seem at first glance. By washing towels every three days or at least once a week, you will allow them to dry between uses and follow proper washing rules, you can protect your health and ensure that your towels are always clean and fresh. Don’t let germs take over your daily routine – take care of the cleanliness of your towels now!
