Find out the ideal time to sanitize this item, which is key in any bathroom. Maintaining proper hygiene of hand towels is essential to prevent the proliferation of bacteria and ensure healthy skin. For this reason, microbiologist Philip Tierno, from the University of New York, says that they should be washed after three or four uses, as they accumulate moisture, dead cells and body oils that create an environment conducive to the proliferation of microorganisms.
In addition, hygiene experts recommend that hand towels, which come into frequent contact with different people and surfaces, be washed every two days to minimize the risk of cross-contamination.
It is also essential to make sure that towels dry completely between uses by hanging them in well-ventilated places, as residual moisture promotes the growth of germs.
How to wash towels without damaging them and prolong their useful life
- Separate by color: wash white towels separately from colored ones to avoid dye transfer.
- Use mild detergent: you can opt for detergents without aggressive bleaches that can damage the fibers.
- Add white vinegar: adding a cup of white vinegar during the wash cycle helps to eliminate soap residue and keep towels soft.
- Control the water temperature: wash white towels in hot water (around 60°C) to eliminate germs and maintain their shine; colored towels should be washed in warm water to preserve their color.
- Avoid fabric softeners: excessive use of fabric softeners can reduce the absorbency of towels; white vinegar is a natural alternative.
- Dry properly: dry towels outdoors in the shade or in the dryer at a low temperature to prevent them from hardening.
