Have you ever noticed that your towels have an unpleasant smell even after washing them? Swimmers and anybody doing any kind of water sports know this problem all too well. Stinky towels can be quite frustrating, as fresh and clean towels are essential for maintaining good hygiene.
There are several factors that contribute to towels emanating bad odors even after washing, from leaving them damp for too long to using excessive detergent. Understanding these causes can help you prevent bad smells in the future and ensure that your towels remain fresh and pleasant to use.
In this article, we will explore the main reasons behind this issue and offer some useful solutions to tackle these smelly problems.
Causes of Towel Odor
Mildew and Mold Buildup
One of the primary reasons your towels may still smell bad even after washing is the buildup of mildew and black mold. Damp towels are a perfect environment for these microorganisms to thrive. They can start breeding within just 1-2 hours after washing, which can lead to the foul, musty odor we all know and hate.
Hard Water
Hard water is water that contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. When you wash your towels with hard water, the minerals in the water can react with the soap and create a film on the fibers of the towel.
This film can trap bacteria and other odor-causing substances, making it harder to get rid of the smell. Over time, this buildup can lead to a musty smell that just won’t go away.
Additionally, the minerals in hard water can weaken the fibers of the towel, making them more prone to retaining moisture and creating an environment where bacteria can thrive.
Ineffective Washing Techniques
In some cases, the way you wash your towels could be contributing to the lingering smell. Using too much detergent, for instance, can create a residue on the towels that traps bacteria and odors.
Additionally, washing towels at a low temperature might not kill all the bacteria and mildew present, allowing the smells to persist. A simple fix is to try using less detergent and opt for higher temperatures to ensure a thorough cleaning.
Poor Drying Practices
Another factor that can contribute to towel odor is how you dry them. Allowing towels to air-dry fully off the floor and away from dampness is essential in keeping them odor-free.
If you need to dry multiple towels at a time, consider installing a towel rack with multiple arms so that each towel can get maximum air flow to dry quickly and evenly.
Leaving damp towels in the washing machine or on the floor can trap moisture, providing an ideal environment for mildew and bacteria to persist, which will make your towels smell bad even after washing.
Towel Washing Tips
Use the Right Detergent and Amount
Choosing the correct detergent is essential in getting your towels fresh and odor-free. Opt for a detergent suitable for your washing machine type and recommended by the manufacturer.
Be sure to follow the dosage guidelines to avoid using too much or too little detergent. Overusing detergent can cause residue build-up on your towels, while using too little may not effectively remove all the dirt and bacteria.
Install a Water Softener
If the cause of the towel odor is due to hard water trapping bacteria, one solution is to install a water softener in your home. A water softener is a device that removes the minerals from hard water, making it easier to get your towels clean and preventing odor buildup, but it can be quite the hefty expense.
Add Vinegar and Baking Soda
Using vinegar and baking soda in your washing routine can prevent musty odors from forming. In addition to your regular detergent, also add one cup of vinegar on the highest water setting possible.
The acetic acid in vinegar helps break down residue and eliminate mildew smells. After the washing cycle is complete, add ½ a cup of baking soda during the rinse cycle. This step will neutralize any lingering odors and further clean your towels.
Avoid Overcrowding
When washing your towels, avoid overcrowding the washing machine. This ensures that every towel has enough space for proper cleaning and water circulation. Washing smaller loads of no more than three towels in hot water on the longest setting is recommended. This allows the washing machine to properly agitate and remove dirt and bacteria, thus preventing musty odors.
Towel Drying Tips
Ensure Proper Ventilation
To avoid unpleasant smells in your towels, it is essential to air dry them away from humidity. Proper ventilation is the key to preventing musty odors.
Make sure the area where you hang your towels has adequate airflow and is not prone to dampness. Open any windows and even turn on a fan if you have the option. Keep the door to the room open.
The exception to this is if you live in an area with high humidity, in which case it is probably better to keep your towels indoors where you should also be running a dehumidifier.
Dry Towels Immediately
One of the major causes of smelly towels is mildew, which can form when towels are left damp for too long.
To prevent this problem, always dry your towels as soon as possible after washing them or using them. This is sometimes easier said than done, as I’m often so busy I will forget that I was even washing clothes in the first place!
Never place wet towels or clothes in a laundry hamper, as mildew smells can develop after even just a few hours in a warm, dark place. Always hang it up on a towel rack.
Additionally, when using a dryer, make sure to choose the right setting for your towels. Most modern dryers have a specific towel setting, so be sure to use this if it’s available to you.
Store Towels Correctly
Once your towels are completely dry, it’s crucial to store them correctly to avoid bad odors. Fold them neatly and place them in a well-ventilated, moisture-free location. Avoid packing them tightly together, as this can restrict airflow and promote the growth of mildew.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my washing machine making my towels smell?
While washing machines are designed to clean our clothes and towels, they can actually contribute to making towels smell if they’re not cleaned properly.
Over time, washing machines can develop a buildup of detergent, fabric softener, and other residues that can trap bacteria and create an unpleasant odor. This odor can then transfer to your towels during the wash cycle, making them smell less than fresh.
To prevent this from happening, it’s important to regularly clean your washing machine and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for detergent and fabric softener usage.
How do you deodorize towels in the washing machine?
You can try adding vinegar and baking soda into your washing machine as mentioned above. You may even need to do this a second time to get rid of a lingering odor.
Another tip is to limit the amount of towels you are washing at one time to no more than three, and to run the most heavy-duty wash cycle at the highest temperature setting to deep clean your towels.
Why do my towels smell sour after one use?
If your towels smell sour after just one use, it’s likely due to a buildup of bacteria on the fibers of the towel. Follow the washing tips described in the sections above to get rid of lingering odors in your towel.
Can you wash a swim shammy the same way as a towel?
No, hot water may be too harsh on a swim shammy; you will need to use cold water instead. Do NOT put it in the dryer afterwards. Alternatively, you can hand wash your shammy in warm water with soap, then hang it up to dry.
Should you wash pool towels separately from bath towels?
Yes, it’s a good idea to wash pool towels separately from bath towels. Pool towels are often exposed to sand, chlorine, and other outdoor elements that can be abrasive and difficult to remove.
Washing them separately can prevent these elements from transferring to your regular bath towels and potentially damaging them. Additionally, washing pool towels separately can help to avoid color fading or dye transfer from brightly colored or patterned towels.
