You step out of the shower, clean and refreshed. You grab your towel to dry off. But is that towel actually clean?
Here is a reality check that might surprise you: your bath towel is one of the germiest items in your home. According to dermatologist Alok Vij, MD of the Cleveland Clinic, you should launder your bath towel at least once a week — and your washcloth even more often, at least a couple times a week. But many experts recommend an even more frequent schedule.
The Cleaning Institute suggests washing bath towels after every three to five typical uses. Ryan Sinclair, PhD, MPH, Professor of Environmental Microbiology at Loma Linda University, agrees: most people should wash their bath towels after three to four uses, which typically means replacing them once or twice per week.
Why towels get dirty so fast
Towels act as a second cleaning step, removing whatever did not come off in the shower. They pick up dead skin cells, microbes, and skin flora such as Staphylococcus aureus. They can also collect fecal bacteria. Once used, a damp towel becomes an ideal environment for bacteria to grow and multiply.
The three-to-four-use rule only works if the towel completely dries between uses. If the towel is doubled over or the room is humid, it should be changed after two uses.
When to wash after every single use
According to Sinclair, towels should be used only one time if:
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You are experiencing an active infection (Norovirus, the flu, MRSA/Staph, ringworm, athlete's foot)
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The towel is exposed to body fluids like blood, sweat, or secretions
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You have any open wounds, like surgical incisions or significant scrapes
What about hand towels?
Hand towels are used much more frequently — and often by multiple people. Sinclair says they are one of the primary ways germs spread between family members. Because of their frequent use, hand towels should be changed more often than bath towels.
If your towel smells
If your towel is emitting a musty odor, bacteria and mold have already started multiplying. "That musty smell comes from volatile organic compounds produced by bacteria and mold," Sinclair says. If you proceed to use a musty-smelling towel, the odor can transfer to your skin.
SEMAXE's recommendation
For most households, wash bath towels after three to four uses — or at least once a week. Wash hand towels every two to three days. And always hang your towel completely spread out to dry between uses. Proper drying is just as important as washing.
Key Takeaways:
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Wash bath towels every 3-4 uses (or at least once a week)
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Wash hand towels every 2-3 days
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Washcloths need replacing at least twice a week
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Towels must dry completely between uses — don't fold or bunch them
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Musty smell = bacteria already multiplying
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Wash after every single use if you're sick or have open wounds
