Why Drying Towels Outside Is a Hygiene Game-Changer
With temperatures finally rising here in the UK, it’s the perfect time to hang your laundry on the line and let it dry naturally outside.When it comes to towels and bathmats, drying them outside isn’t just energy-efficient, it’s one of the best ways to prevent the build-up of that musty, damp smell that often clings to bathroom fabrics.
However, it’s not just the bad smell you should be worried about, when not washed regularly, towels can also harbour bacteria, mildew, and lingering odours.
According to a recent survey from Mira Showers, 21% of people only wash their towels once a month, and 47% only replace their towels when they are ’falling apart’.
To find out more, the experts at Mira Showers partnered with Heather Nixon, Sustainability, NPD and Regulatory Manager at Bio-D, on how to keep your shower accessories fresh, hygienic, and long-lasting.
How often should you wash your towels?
“Bath towels should be washed after being used three to four times, or every two to three days if you shower daily. Towels don’t just absorb water, they also soak up dead skin cells, body oils, sweat, and bacteria.
Damp towels left hanging in humid bathrooms quickly become breeding grounds for bacteria, especially if not dried thoroughly between uses.
Face towels or gym towels should be washed after every use, especially if you’re using them to wipe off sweat or remove makeup, as these can clog fibres and lead to odours or skin irritation.
Shake towels out after each use and hang them flat to dry in a well-ventilated space (ideally not bunched over a hook or radiator).
Making the most of warm air outdoors is also important as drying towels outdoors helps kill bacteria naturally and leaves them smelling fresher than ever.”
What temperature should you wash towels at?
“When it comes to keeping your towels hygienic, washing temperature really matters,” says Heather
“For everyday use, a 30°C wash is usually sufficient to remove dirt, body oils and light odours. But if your towels have a musty smell or have been sitting damp for a while, it’s best to wash them at 60°C to properly neutralise bacteria and mildew. Laundry detergents from eco-friendly brands are designed to wash items at lower temperatures without reducing effectiveness.
Higher temperatures are especially important during warmer months when humidity in the bathroom can make germs thrive. Just make sure to check the care label and avoid overloading the drum so your towels get a thorough clean.”
Why do my towels smell after washing?
“Towels that still smell unpleasant after washing may contain stubborn bacteria that need removing. Rewash your towel using a cup of white vinegar instead of detergent as adding more detergent won’t help with the smell and will instead leave a residue. This should neutralise the bacteria and neutralise any odours.
In addition, ensure you hang towels out to dry immediately after washing them. Leaving towels in the drum allows mould and mildew to develop, causing damp smells.”
Why are my towels hard after washing?
“Too much detergent can make your towels feel stiff after washing. Use half the amount you would for clothes and choose an extra-long rinse cycle to remove detergent residue. Never use fabric softener on towels, as it lessens their absorbency.”
How should you dry towels?
“Ideally, towels should be dried as quickly as possible to prevent that damp, musty smell. In the warmer months, drying them outside is the best option, sunlight acts as a natural disinfectant and leaves them smelling fresh.
If you’re drying indoors, use a heated towel rail or if necessary, a tumble dryer on a medium heat. You can add a clean, dry towel to the load to help absorb moisture more quickly. Just avoid leaving towels bunched up on radiators or hooks, as this traps moisture and encourages bacteria. And always make sure they’re completely dry before folding or storing them away.”
How do you keep towels fluffy?
“To keep towels soft and fluffy, it’s all about the right washing and drying routine. Avoid using fabric softener, it might seem like a good idea, but it actually coats the fibres and makes towels less absorbent over time.
Instead, add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle every few washes to break down residue and restore softness.
Shake towels out before and after drying to help fluff up the fibres, and if you’re using a tumble dryer, finish with a short, gentle cycle. Even popping a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls in can help keep them feeling light and plush.”
How often should you replace towels?
“Even the best-quality towels don’t last forever. As a general rule, you should look to replace your bath towels every two to three years. Over time, frequent washing, detergent build-up and wear can make towels feel rough, lose absorbency, or develop a smell that just won’t shift.
If your towel feels thin, scratchy, or doesn’t dry you properly anymore, it’s probably time for a refresh. Investing in a few high-quality towels and rotating them can help extend their lifespan and keep your bathroom feeling fresh and luxurious.”
How often should you replace other bathroom accessories, such as bathmats?
“It’s not just towels that need regular attention, other bathroom essentials can quickly become unhygienic if neglected. Bath mats should be washed weekly, or more often if they are visibly dirty, especially if they’re in a high-use household or stay damp for long periods. By giving your bath mat a good shake to fluff up the fibres, this increases its absorbency.
Loofahs and shower puffs can harbour bacteria and mould, so they should be replaced every couple of months or even sooner if they start to smell or discolour.”
