Why It’s Never a Good Idea to Wash Clothes and Towels Together

Neglecting Laundry Separation

Despite my efforts to keep up with household chores, laundry often falls to the bottom of my to-do list. Overflowing hampers lead me to toss everything together in a rush.

Risks of Washing Towels with Clothing

Taylor Matthews, owner of Sparkling Queens, warns against washing towels with clothing and linens. Mixing them can result in lint and fibers transferring onto other items. Additionally, towels require a heavier wash cycle without fabric softener, posing a risk of shrinking other fabrics due to longer drying times.

Damage Towels Can Cause

Stephanie Booth explains that towels’ weight and texture can damage delicate fabrics when washed together. Moreover, towels harbor bacteria, making it unwise to wash them with clothing and linens to prevent bacterial transfer.

Best Practices for Washing Towels

To maintain cleanliness and fabric integrity, use a hot water cycle for towels and avoid overloading the machine. Adding half a cup of baking soda helps deodorize and freshen towels, ensuring they stay clean and smelling pleasant.

Preserve Fabric Quality

Separating laundry is crucial for preserving fabric quality and cleanliness. By following these tips, you can ensure that your clothing, towels, and linens remain in good condition for an extended period.