Care Guide for Hand Towels: How To Wash and Store

March 2, 2023

Hand towels are an essential item in any bathroom or kitchen, providing a convenient way to dry your hands and maintain hygiene. However, with frequent use and exposure to dirt, moisture, and bacteria, they can quickly become soiled, smelly, and unappealing if not cared for correctly. In this guide, we'll provide you with practical tips on how to wash and store your hand towels, so they remain in good condition and provide you with effective drying and cleaning power. Whether you have a cotton, microfiber, or bamboo hand towel, this guide will help you keep it looking and feeling great.

The Right Way To Wash Hand Towels

Washing hand towels is essential to maintain good hygiene in your home. Here are some steps on how to wash hand towels:
Machine Washing Hand Towels

1. Check the care label to see if the hand towels are machine washable.
2. Separate the towels by color to avoid color bleeding.
3. Place the towels in the washing machine and add a small amount of mild detergent according to the package instructions.
4. Select a hot water cycle to kill germs and bacteria effectively. If the towels are colored, select a warm water cycle instead.
5. Start the wash cycle and wait until it's finished.
6. Remove the towels from the washer and shake them out to fluff them up.
7. Tumble dry the towels on a low heat setting. Remove them promptly once they are dry to prevent wrinkles.

1. Fill a sink or basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent.
2. Separate the towels by color to avoid color bleeding.
3. Submerge the towels in the water and gently scrub them with your hands.
4. Rinse the towels thoroughly under running water to remove all the soap.
5. Gently squeeze out the excess water. Avoid twisting or wringing the towels to prevent damage to the fabric.
6. Hang the towels on a clothesline or drying rack to air dry. Avoid using the dryer as it can damage the fabric and shrink the towels.

How Often To Wash Hand Towels

Hand towels are exposed to bacteria every time they are used. Washing them after every use is essential to prevent odors and bacteria buildup.

The Right Way To Store Hand Towels

How to Fold Hand Towels:

1. Lay the towel on a flat surface with the design facing down.
2. Fold the towel in half vertically, matching the short edges together.
3. Fold the towel in half again, this time matching the long edges together.
4. Fold the towel in thirds, bringing the bottom edge up towards the top edge.

1. Lay the towel on a flat surface with the design facing down.
2. Roll the towel tightly, starting at one end and rolling towards the other.
3. Smooth out any wrinkles or creases as you go.

Expert Advice for Maintaining The Quality Of Your Hand Towels

To keep hand towels in top shape, it's important to follow a few practical tips. First, avoid washing them with heavy or abrasive materials, such as towels or jeans, to prevent damage to the fabric. Similarly, avoid washing them with fabric softeners or bleach, as these can break down the fibers and reduce absorbency. It's recommended to use a mild detergent instead, as suggested by the care label instructions. For towels with colored designs, using salt as a mordant or dye-fixer can help prevent color bleeding. Additionally, investing in mesh bags or a proper drying rack can help reduce wear and tear during the washing and drying process. Finally, it's important to avoid over-drying the towels in the dryer, as this can damage the fibers and reduce their softness. Air drying or using a low-heat setting is recommended. By following these tips and adhering to the care label instructions, hand towels can stay in top shape and maintain their hygiene benefits for longer.

Want to share this?