How do I get my Bath Towels to Smell Fresh?

Nothing is more irritating than a smelly towel! Isn't it?

Towels often get stinky because they are usually damp, and when they stay wet for too long, bacteria can start to grow on them. This can lead to a foul odor. Moreover, they accumulate soap residue, skin cells, and other organic matter over time, and this buildup also contributes to a bad smell. Sometimes, they are not washed properly, so they pick up odors from the washing machine, such as mold or mildew.

No matter what the reason is, a nasty towel smells not only foul but also harmful or your health and hygiene. So, it is important to follow certain measures in order to prevent bath towels from getting stinky.

So, what should we do to make the bath towels smell fresh?

Keeping the towels clean is important, so follow these tips to keep the towels clean and fresh like new. 

1.    Wash them regularly:

Towels should be washed after every few uses. If they are not washed often enough, bacteria and residue can build up, which causes a bad odor.

2.    Dry them properly:

Towels should be hung up to dry after each use, and they should be completely dry before being put away. This can help prevent bacteria growth.

3.    Use the right detergent:

Using too much detergent or fabric softener can leave a residue on towels, which can lead to a bad smell. Using a detergent specifically designed for towels can help prevent this. Use the recommended amount of detergent for the size of your load.

4.    Clean the washing machine:

Washing machines can also develop odors over time, which can transfer to towels. It is important to clean the washing machine regularly to prevent this from happening.

5.    Avoid using fabric softener:

Fabric softeners can leave a coating on towels that can trap bacteria and cause a bad smell. Instead, use vinegar or baking soda as a natural fabric softener.

6.    Wash towels in hot water:

Hot water can help kill bacteria and remove any buildup on bath towels. Make sure to follow the care instructions on your towels, as some materials may not be suitable for hot water.

7.    Add baking soda or vinegar to the wash:

Adding a cup of baking soda or a cup of white vinegar to the wash can help neutralize odors and leave your towels smelling fresh.

Hacks you can use to keep the towels smelling fresh

Do try these hacks to keep your towels fresh and clean. These hacks take no time and investment, and we are sure you will be amazed at the results.

• Use essential oils: Using the essential oil while laundering the towels is a great idea. Add a few drops of essential oil to the rinse cycle when washing your towels. Lavender, lemon, and peppermint are great options for a fresh scent.
• Hang towels to dry in the sun: Sunlight can help kill bacteria and leave towels smelling fresh. Hang your towels outside in the sun to dry whenever possible.
• Use dryer balls: Towels often get rough and stiff after frequent washes. Dryer balls can help fluff up your towels and prevent them from getting stiff. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to the dryer balls to infuse your towels with a fresh scent.
• Wash towels separately: Avoid washing towels with clothes or other items that may have a strong smell. This can help prevent towels from picking up unwanted odours.
• Use oxygen bleach: Add a scoop of oxygen bleach to your wash cycle to help remove any buildup on your towels and leave them smelling fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get the smell out of towels naturally?

Here are a few natural ways how you can get the smell out of towels naturally.

• Vinegar: Add 1 cup of white vinegar to the washing machine during the rinse cycle.
• Baking Soda: Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to the washing machine before starting the wash cycle.
• Lemon Juice: Add 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice to the washing machine during the rinse cycle.
• Sunlight: Hang towels outside in the sunlight to remove odors naturally.

How often should you wash your Bath Towels?

According to experts, towels should be washed every three to four uses to prevent the buildup of bacteria, mold, and odors. It is also recommended to hang and dry towels properly after each use to prevent moisture retention.

How to clean smelly towels in front loader

Cleaning smelly towels in a front loader washing machine is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to effectively remove the odor from your towels:

1. Gather Materials:

   • Smelly towels
   • White vinegar
   • Baking soda
   • Mild laundry detergent
   • Washing machine
     
     

2. Preparation:

   • Remove the towels from the machine if they're already in there.
   • Check if your towels have any specific care instructions on their tags and follow them if provided.
     
     

3. Vinegar Wash:

   • Place your smelly towels in the washing machine.
   • Add 1 cup of white vinegar to the detergent compartment of the machine.
   • Use hot water and a regular wash cycle. The vinegar will help break down odors and dissolve any built-up residue.
     
     

4. Baking Soda Treatment:

   • After the vinegar wash is complete, sprinkle about 1/2 cup of baking soda directly onto the towels.
   • Run another hot water cycle with a regular wash setting.
   • Baking soda will further neutralize odors and help to freshen up the towels.
     
     

5. Extra Rinse:

   • If your washing machine has an extra rinse option, use it to ensure all traces of vinegar and baking soda are washed away.
     
     

6. Drying:

   • After the second cycle is complete, remove the towels and give them a sniff test to see if the odor is gone. If not, you may need to repeat the process.
   • Dry the towels as you normally would, whether it's air-drying or using a dryer.
     
     

7. Preventive Measures:

   • To prevent future towel odors, avoid leaving damp towels in the machine for extended periods.
   • Allow towels to fully dry before storing them in a closed space.
   • Wash towels regularly, and avoid using excessive detergent as it can contribute to buildup.

Remember that if your towels are heavily soiled or have been used for specific activities (like the beach or gym), it might take a few cycles to completely eliminate the smell. Regular maintenance and proper drying are key to keeping your towels fresh in the long run.

Should I throw away smelly towels?

If your bath towels have a persistent unpleasant odor even after washing and drying them properly, it might be time to replace them. However, before throwing them away, you could try soaking them in a mixture of hot water and white vinegar or baking soda to remove any remaining bacteria or mildew. If the smell persists, it's best to dispose of them and invest in new towels.

In conclusion, there are several simple steps that you can take to get your bath towels to smell fresh. Firstly, ensure that you are washing them regularly and using the right amount of detergent. Adding baking soda or white vinegar to the wash cycle can also help eliminate any musty odors. When drying your towels, ensure that they are completely dry and not left damp, as this can lead to a build-up of bacteria and odors. Additionally, avoid using fabric softeners as they can leave a residue that can make your towels less absorbent and less fresh-smelling over time. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your bath towels are always fresh and clean.