What is the best way to stop towels smelling?

Tired of that musty smell that emanates from your towels even after washing them? You are not alone. The good news is that there are simple and practical tips you can adopt to stop towels smelling, and thus ensure your bath and hand towels remain clean and fresh, even after multiple uses.

Why do towels smell?

Before delving into the ways to keep towels smelling fresh, it's essential to understand the main reason why they stink. Typically, smell towels are caused by bacteria that thrive in warm, damp environments. Towels are naturally prone to moisture retention, considering they are used to dry off wet bodies.

Therefore, when towels do not dry out thoroughly, the dampness creates a favorable environment for bacteria growth, causing the musty odor. Other causes of the smell from towels may include the use of too much detergent or fabric conditioner, laundry mistakes like leaving wet towels in the washing machine for too long, and the use of old, worn-out towels.

How to stop towels smelling

1. Wash towels regularly.

The cardinal rule of keeping your towels smelling fresh is by washing them regularly. Ideally, you should wash your towels after every 3 or 4 uses, as opposed to daily. Washing the towels frequently ensures the accumulation of bacteria is minimized, and thus the odor is eliminated.

2. Use the correct amount of detergent and fabric conditioner.

Excess use of detergents and fabric conditioners may leave residue in the towels, which could also contribute to the musty smell. Therefore, it is recommended that you use only the necessary amount of laundry agents to wash your towels.

3. Dry towels thoroughly.

Ensuring that your towels dry out completely after every use is critical in preventing bacterial growth. Use the highest possible temperature in the washing machine to remove any moisture from the towels. After washing, you should hang the towels in a well-ventilated area, preferably in the sun.

4. Avoid using too much fabric conditioner.

While fabric conditioners give your towels a soft feel and a nice scent, the excessive usage of them may leave residue that traps bacteria, contributing to the musty odor. Opt for natural non-fragrant fabric softeners that do not contain any chemicals that may harm the environment.

5. Use vinegar.

Vinegar is an eco-friendly and cost-effective ingredient that can help eliminate odors. Use it as a natural fabric softener by adding half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle, and it will leave your towels smelling fresh and feeling soft.

Conclusion

The above tips may seem simple, but they go a long way in ensuring that your towels remain free from musty smells, and thus remain fresh and clean to use. Few things feel as great as using a soft, fragrant towel to dry your hands or wrap yourself in after a shower. By taking the simple steps mentioned above, you can guarantee that your towels remain as pleasant every time you use them.