How To Get Smell Out Of Towels Effectively & Safely

Ever picked up a towel expecting it to be fresh, only to be greeted by a musty smell instead? Don’t worry, many people can relate! 

Figuring out how to get the smell out of towels is easier than you think, but beware of cleaning methods that may be harsh on the fabric or the environment. Yes, choosing the best towel with premium quality is important, but so is knowing how to keep it odour-free without damaging the fibres. 

With the right tips, you can gently make your bath essential smell fresh and feel new again.

Why Towels Smell Bad

Towels can smell because of bacterial growth, mildew smells, or improper drying. Factors like excessive fabric softener, insufficient rinsing, and prolonged dampness can make the smell worse. Body oils and residual detergent ultimately trap bacteria in the towel, leading to the smelly towel.

Common reasons for bad-smelling towels include:

• Not washing towels often enough: This is one of the main reasons why towels smell bad. So, how often should you wash towels? You should wash your towel after 3-4 uses. This keeps the towel free of oil buildup and bacteria.

• Poor airflow when drying: Leaving wet towels in humid places can cause bacteria to grow and produce unpleasant odours.

• Using excessive fabric softener: Fabric softener is a good idea for soft towels but creates a coating on them. Instead of softening them, it traps moisture and smell.
  
  

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How To Get Smells Out Of Towels: 5 Simple & Fabric-Friendly Tips

Follow Proper Care Guide

To keep your towels fresh and odour-free, it's essential to care for them properly. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines. If you're using silver-infused cotton or bamboo towels from Weavve, here’s a simple care guide to ensure they stay in top condition:

• Wash dark colours separately.

• Wash at or below 60°C.

• Tumble dry on medium heat.

• Do not iron or dry clean.

• Avoid bleach or bleach-containing detergents, as they can damage the fibres.
  
  

Use Gentle Cleaning Agents

Harsh detergents and bleach can weaken fabric, causing it to wear out faster. Instead, try gentle, non-toxic detergents or natural alternatives like vinegar and baking soda to banish odours while keeping your towels soft. A cup of white vinegar in the wash will leave them feeling fresh and soft, without the lingering smell of chemicals.

Featuring Weavve’s Bamboo Fibre Bath Towel

Ensure Proper Drying

After washing, ensure your towel is thoroughly dried to prevent mildew smells. If the fabric allows, use a medium heat setting in the dryer, or hang it in the sun to naturally kill bacteria.

Additionally, clean the lint filter regularly to maintain the dryer’s efficiency and avoid any build-up that can affect the towel’s freshness.

Store Towels Correctly

For extra freshness, use a small packet of dried lavender, baking soda, lemon juice, or cedar chips in your storage space. These all-natural deodorisers absorb smells and moisture, keeping your towels fresh in the cupboard or bathroom cabinet.

Also, keep towels off the floor to avoid dirt and musty smells. Hanging them up keeps them fresh. To make it easier, give everyone a colour-coded towel so you can spot who's leaving towels on the floor and remind them to hang it up.

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Maintain Bathroom Freshness To Keep Towels Odour-Free 

After a shower, switch on the exhaust fan to clear the air of moisture. If you can, open a window or leave the bathroom door slightly open. In smaller or windowless bathrooms, a dehumidifier can help absorb the excess moisture. 

By following these steps, you'll not only know how to remove musty smell from towels, but your towels will also stay soft, dry, and ready to use whenever you need them!

How To Hang Towels Properly

After using a towel, hang it properly. It helps you to prevent bad smells. Here’s how to hang your towels in the right way:

1. Spread Towels Out On A Rack

To help your towel dry faster, spread it out fully on a towel rack or bar, giving air room to circulate. Avoid folding it too much, as this traps moisture and can cause unpleasant smells. If drying several towels, make sure there’s enough space between them to allow proper airflow.

2. Hang Towels Outdoors When Possible

Drying towels outdoors is a fantastic way to keep them fresh, particularly in sunny Singapore. The sun dries them quickly and naturally eliminates germs. To ensure they dry evenly, hang them in a well-ventilated, sunny spot, making sure they don't overlap. Plus, it’s eco-friendly and helps your towels last longer.

Image By Gokceakyildiz From Pexels

How To Pick Good Towel Materials

1. Material Matters

The material of your towel plays a key role in its softness, absorbency, and durability. Cotton is a popular choice, delivering both comfort and excellent absorbency, while bamboo towels are eco-friendly and naturally antimicrobial – perfect for those focused on sustainability. 

At Weavve, we offer Silver Infused Cotton and Bamboo Towels, each designed for a specific purpose. Check out the chart below to find the perfect option for you.

2. Absorbency

Towels that don’t absorb moisture properly can leave you feeling damp and uncomfortable. Choose fabrics with high absorbency to ensure they dry your skin quickly and efficiently after a shower or bath.

3. Breathability

Why do you need a breathable towel? Without it, moisture can get trapped, leaving your skin feeling clammy and uncomfortable. Over time, this can also lead to unpleasant smells and bacteria growth. Look for towels made from natural fibres like cotton or bamboo, which are known for their breathability and ability to keep your skin fresh and dry.

Featuring Weavve’s Silver Infused Cotton

5. Washability

Look for towels that stay soft and durable, even after multiple washes. Towels that maintain their quality over time ensure they remain effective and fresh for everyday use.

6. GSM Rating

The GSM (grams per square metre) rating reveals a towel's thickness and absorbency. Towels with a higher GSM offer a plush, spa-like experience, while those with a lower GSM are lighter and dry quicker—perfect for humid climates. You’ll typically find the GSM listed on the product label or can ask the manufacturer for more information.

Featuring Weavve’s Silver Infused Cotton

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Mildew Be Washed Out Of Towels?

Yes, you can remove mildew and its smell. To remove mildew from towels, wash them in hot water, add white vinegar for natural cleaning properties, and use baking soda for freshness and tough stains. This process thoroughly cleans the towels, leaving them fresh and ready for use.

How Long Does It Take For Mildew To Grow On Wet Towels?

Mildew can start growing on wet towels in warm and humid conditions within 24-48 hours. To stop this, hang your towels right after using them. Spread them out or directly in sunlight so they dry evenly, and use a fan or open windows to increase airflow.

How Often Should I Replace Towels?

Towels should be replaced every 1 to 2 years, depending on quality and usage. Over time, they lose water absorption and softness. Regular washing and daily use cause the fabric to wear out. Some clear signs to replace your towels include unpleasant odours, thinner fabric, and frayed edges. 

Conclusion

In short, banishing bad smells from towels is simple with a few easy steps: wash with vinegar, then use baking soda or detergent, and make sure they dry properly. Hanging towels correctly and using natural deodorisers will keep them fresh while opting for quality materials like our cotton and bamboo towels and replacing them when necessary guarantees long-lasting softness and cleanliness. 

Follow these tips and your towels will stay soft, fresh, and always ready to use!