Are You Washing Your Towels Enough? Here’s What Experts Say

There’s nothing like wrapping yourself in a warm, fluffy towel after a refreshing shower. But if that towel hasn’t been washed in a while, it may be harboring bacteria, fungi, and other microbes turning your post-shower routine into a germ fest.

So, how often should you wash your towels? Dermatologists say you might need to clean them more frequently than you think.

How Often Should You Wash Your Towels?

The general rule of thumb is to wash bath towels every three to four uses or at least once a week, says Stacy Chimento, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Riverchase Dermatology.

Some towels, however, need more frequent washing:

• Gym towels: If you bring a towel to the gym and toss it in your bag while it’s still damp, wash it after every use to prevent bacteria buildup.

• Hand towels and washcloths: These are used more often and by multiple people, making them germ magnets. Wash them every two to three days to keep them clean.

What Happens If You Don’t Wash Your Towels Regularly?

Skipping laundry day too often can do more than just leave your towels smelling musty. Here’s how dirty towels can affect your health:

1. Skin Infections

Damp towels create the perfect environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive. Using an unwashed towel could lead to athlete’s foot, toenail fungus, jock itch, or warts, Dr. Chimento warns.

2. Rashes and Irritation

If you have sensitive skin or eczema, dirty towels can worsen flare-ups. “Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, can be aggravated by staphylococcus bacteria, which dirty towels can spread to other parts of the body,” Dr. Chimento explains.

3. Acne Breakouts

Bacteria from an unwashed towel can contribute to breakouts on the face and body. Using a fresh towel (or swapping out your towel more frequently) can help keep skin clear.

4. Illness and Germ Transmission

Unwashed hand towels, in particular, can spread germs including cold and flu viruses. In some cases, dirty towels can even transmit MRSA, a type of staph infection that’s difficult to treat with antibiotics.

How to Wash Towels for Maximum Cleanliness

To keep your towels fresh and bacteria-free, follow these expert-approved washing tips:

Wash towels separately from other laundry to prevent germ transfer.
Use hot or warm water to kill bacteria and fungi.
Use bleach when possible (especially for white towels) for extra sanitation.
Choose fragrance-free detergent if you have sensitive skin to avoid irritation.
Don’t let wet towels sit in the washer this can encourage mold growth.
Dry towels on high heat to ensure they’re fully sanitized.

The Bottom Line

If you’re using the same towel for weeks without washing it, it might be time to rethink your laundry habits. Washing your bath towels every 3–4 uses, hand towels every 2–3 days, and gym towels after every use can help prevent bacteria buildup and keep your skin healthy.

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