Laundry might seem like a straightforward household chore, but when it comes to mixing towels with clothes and other linens, many people aren’t sure what the best practice is. Some toss everything into one load to save time and energy, while others strictly separate towels, sheets, and clothing. So what’s the right approach?
According to laundry and textile care experts, washing towels with clothes and other linens isn’t always recommended, and the reasons go beyond simple cleanliness. Fabric type, water temperature, hygiene, and towel longevity all play a role. Understanding how towels differ from clothing and sheets can help you make smarter laundry decisions that protect your fabrics and keep everything fresher for longer.
Here’s what experts say about whether you should wash towels with clothes and other linens—and when it might be okay to do so.
Why Towels Are Different From Other Laundry
Towels are designed to absorb moisture, which means they behave very differently in the wash than most clothing or bedding.
Towels Hold More Water and Bacteria
Because towels absorb water from your body, they also trap:
- Skin cells
- Body oils
- Bacteria
- Residual soap and skincare products
Experts explain that damp environments encourage bacterial growth, which is why towels can develop odors quickly if not washed properly.
Thicker Fabric Requires Different Care
Towels are typically made from thick cotton loops that:
- Need higher water temperatures to clean thoroughly
- Require more detergent rinsing
- Take longer to dry
Washing towels with lightweight fabrics can lead to uneven cleaning and drying.
Can You Wash Towels With Clothes?
Expert Answer: It Depends
Laundry professionals generally advise washing towels separately from clothes whenever possible. Here’s why:
- Towels can cause friction that leads to pilling on clothing
- Lint from towels can stick to clothes, especially darker fabrics
- Clothes may not tolerate the hotter water towels need
- Towels can retain bacteria if washed on lower temperatures meant for clothes
That said, experts agree there are limited situations where combining towels and clothes is acceptable, as long as certain conditions are met.
When It’s Okay to Wash Towels With Clothes
Experts say it’s generally safe to wash towels with clothes only when these conditions apply:
1. Similar Fabric Types
Wash towels only with:
- Heavy cotton clothing
- Sturdy loungewear
- Cotton pajamas
Avoid mixing towels with delicate fabrics like silk, lace, wool, or activewear.
2. Similar Colors
Always match colors to prevent dye transfer:
- White towels with white cotton clothing
- Dark towels with dark clothes
Never mix light and dark fabrics, especially with towels that may bleed color.
3. Same Water Temperature
Towels usually need warm or hot water. Only combine them with clothes that:
- Are safe to wash in warm or hot cycles
- Won’t shrink or fade
If clothing labels recommend cold water, keep them separate.
Why Experts Recommend Washing Towels Separately
Better Hygiene
According to experts, towels should be washed in warm or hot water to kill bacteria effectively. Washing them with clothes on cooler settings may leave microbes behind, leading to unpleasant odors.
Improved Fabric Longevity
Towels benefit from:
- Higher water agitation
- Thorough rinsing
- Longer drying times
Washing them alone ensures they maintain their softness and absorbency.
Prevents Lint Transfer
Towels shed lint, especially when new. Washing them separately prevents lint from clinging to clothes and sheets.
Should Towels Be Washed With Sheets and Linens?
Expert Recommendation: Usually No
Although towels and sheets are both linens, experts advise washing them separately for the following reasons:
- Towels are thicker and heavier
- Sheets can wrap around towels, preventing proper cleaning
- Towels need more agitation than sheets
- Different drying times can cause overdrying or damp spots
If washed together, sheets may come out twisted and towels may remain damp, increasing the risk of mildew.
Best Way to Wash Towels, According to Experts
To keep towels clean, soft, and long-lasting, experts recommend the following:
Use the Right Water Temperature
- Warm water for regular washing
- Hot water occasionally for deep cleaning
- Avoid hot water every wash to prevent fiber damage
Avoid Fabric Softener
Fabric softeners coat towel fibers, reducing absorbency. Instead:
- Use white vinegar in the rinse cycle
- Add baking soda occasionally to remove odors
Don’t Overload the Machine
Towels need space to move freely for proper cleaning. Overloading reduces cleaning effectiveness and increases wear.
Dry Thoroughly
Towels should be fully dry before storing. Damp towels encourage bacteria and mildew growth.
How Often Should Towels Be Washed?
Experts recommend washing towels:
- Every 3 to 4 uses for bath towels
- After every use for gym towels
- More frequently in humid climates
Hand towels in shared bathrooms should be washed every 1–2 days.
Hygiene Concerns: Towels vs. Clothing
Clothes are typically worn dry and exposed to less moisture than towels. Towels, on the other hand, stay damp longer and come into contact with skin more directly.
Experts caution that washing towels with underwear, socks, or workout clothes can transfer bacteria between fabrics, especially if washed at lower temperatures.
When Mixing Laundry Makes Sense
If time, water, or energy efficiency is a concern, experts suggest:
- Combining lightly used towels with heavy cotton clothing
- Using warm water and a longer wash cycle
- Avoiding delicate or synthetic fabrics in the same load
This approach balances convenience with fabric care when separation isn’t possible.
Environmental Considerations
Separating laundry loads does use more water and energy. Experts suggest:
- Washing full loads instead of partial ones
- Air-drying towels when possible
- Using high-efficiency machines
Proper towel care actually reduces environmental impact long-term by extending their lifespan.
Signs You Should Stop Mixing Towels With Other Laundry
If you notice:
- Musty towel odors
- Excess lint on clothes
- Rough or flattened towel texture
- Shrinking or faded clothing
It’s a sign towels should be washed separately.
Final Verdict: What Experts Recommend
So, should you wash towels with clothes and other linens?
Experts agree:
- Washing towels separately is best for hygiene and fabric care
- Mixing is acceptable only with similar fabrics, colors, and wash settings
- Towels and sheets should usually be washed in separate loads
By adjusting how you sort your laundry, you can keep towels fresher, clothes looking newer, and your home more hygienic.
Laundry might seem simple, but small changes—like separating towels—can make a noticeable difference in cleanliness, comfort, and longevity. When in doubt, follow expert advice: treat towels as their own category, and they’ll reward you with better performance and freshness every time.