Can You Wash Towels with Clothes?

Many people wonder whether it’s okay to wash towels with clothing. While it’s not unhygienic to do so, it’s generally not recommended due to the different care requirements of each type of fabric.

Why Separating Towels and Clothes is Recommended

Towels and clothing are made from different materials that require distinct washing conditions. Most towels are made of durable cotton, whereas clothes are often composed of a mix of fibres and fabrics that can be more delicate.

While everything can technically be washed in cold water, many people prefer using warm or hot water for towels to ensure a thorough clean. However, hot water can damage or shorten the lifespan of certain clothing items. Additionally, towels often require a longer drying time and can tolerate higher heat settings, whereas many garments are more sensitive to heat and could shrink or wear out faster.

The Impact on Your Laundry

Towels are thick, textured, and absorbent, whereas clothing can be small and delicate. The friction caused by towels during washing can lead to extra wear and tear on clothing. Delicate fabrics may get caught or twisted with the more robust towel fibres, potentially causing damage.

Another factor to consider is fabric softener. Some people use it for their clothes, but it should never be applied to towels as it reduces their absorbency. Additionally, towels may leave lint on your clothes, though this issue is less significant if they have already been washed and dried multiple times.

Towels can also absorb dyes from clothing, especially if the clothes are new or have not been washed separately before. This can lead to discolouration of your towels, which may make them look worn or dirty even when they are clean. To prevent this, always separate brightly coloured or dark clothing from white or light-coloured towels.

Best Practices for Washing Towels and Clothes

If you choose to wash towels with clothes, use the wash cycle and water temperature that best suits the most delicate item in the load. However, if you find your towels aren’t coming out as fresh as you’d like, consider washing them separately in a hot water cycle to ensure a deep clean.

It’s also important to avoid overloading your washing machine. Towels are bulky and require more space to move freely, ensuring they are properly cleaned. An overcrowded load can lead to insufficient washing and rinsing, leaving detergent residue or dirt trapped in the fabrics.

A practical solution is to have an extra set of towels so you can rotate them frequently. Washing towels every two weeks isn’t often enough, as they tend to become smelly within a week. If you’re on a budget, second-hand stores often have a wide selection of quality cotton towels available at affordable prices, even if they don’t match perfectly.

Final Thoughts

While washing towels with clothes isn’t inherently bad, it’s best to separate them to maintain the quality and longevity of both. By understanding the care needs of different fabrics, you can ensure that your laundry remains clean, fresh, and in good condition for as long as possible.

For the best results, wash towels separately, use appropriate detergent, and consider adding white vinegar or baking soda to the rinse cycle occasionally to keep them fresh and soft. By following these simple tips, you can extend the life of both your towels and clothing while maintaining their cleanliness and functionality.