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Towel washing frequency

How often to wash towels. Cleveland Clinic advises at least once a week for bath towels, and more often in a humid bathroom or when someone is sick.

What It Means

Towel washing frequency is how often towels should go through the laundry to stay clean. Cleveland Clinic dermatologist Dr. Alok Vij advises washing bath towels at least once a week, or swapping in a clean one. Towels that stay damp between uses need washing more often.

How It Sounds at Home

  • "Whose towel is this on the floor?"
  • "These smell funky, they're going in the wash."
  • "Grab a fresh one from the closet."

The Breakdown

How often, per Cleveland Clinic

TowelHow often
Bath towelAt least once a week
Hand towelAt least once a week
WashclothAt least a couple of times a week
Gym towel left damp in a bagAfter each use
Any towel in a humid bathroomTwo to three times a week
When someone in the house is sickMore often than usual

Help towels dry between uses. Hang each towel spread out on a bar instead of a hook, so it dries all the way through.

Good to Know

Go easy on fabric softener, scent beads and stain removers. Cleveland Clinic notes that residue from these builds up on towels and makes them more welcoming to germs.

FAQ

How often should you wash bath towels?

At least once a week, according to Cleveland Clinic. Wash them more often if they stay damp or someone at home is sick.

How often should washcloths be washed?

At least a couple of times a week, since they stay wet and come in close contact with skin.

Is it better to hang towels on a hook or a bar?

A bar. Spreading the towel out lets it dry completely between uses.

Do It in Buhata

Recurring chores

Add "Wash bath towels" as a weekly chore in Buhata and give it an owner.

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Related Category

Chores, cleaning and home care

Sources

Cleveland Clinic, "How Often Should You Wash Your Bath Towels?" (Dr. Alok Vij, dermatologist)

Last updated .