3. Towels Can Be Tough on Your Clothes
Towels have a rough, abrasive texture that can seriously wear down delicate fabrics. Zippers and buttons easily snag on towel loops, leading to annoying pulls and snags that ruin your favorite pieces.
4. Hygiene Matters More Than You Think
Used towels can harbor bacteria, and tossing them in with underwear, t-shirts, or kids’ clothes risks cross-contamination. This can be especially risky for anyone with a sensitive or weakened immune system.
5. Longer Drying Times and Higher Energy Bills
Towels hold moisture longer and dry slowly. Mixing them with your clothes results in uneven drying — leaving your fabrics stiff and your energy bills higher than they need to be.
6. Make Your Laundry Last Longer
By washing towels separately, you protect your clothes’ color, shape, and softness. This simple step helps both your towels and clothing stay fresh and last much longer.
How to Master Laundry Like a Pro:
- Sort Smart: Whites and towels go in hot water; darks in warm or cold; delicates in cold on a gentle cycle.
- Choose Settings Wisely: Heavy-duty cycles for towels; normal or gentle for clothes.
- Dry Right: Use high heat for towels, medium to low for clothes.
- Pick the Right Detergent: Enzyme-based detergent (no fabric softeners) for towels; mild detergent for clothes.
- Bonus Tip: Run a monthly cleaning cycle on your washer with hot water and vinegar to prevent buildup and odors.
Real Results From Real People
Marjorie, 68, says she noticed a dramatic difference after separating towels from clothes — her towels got fluffier, clothes stayed vibrant, everything smelled fresher, and her laundry dried faster.
The Bottom Line
Keeping towels and clothes apart isn’t just laundry advice — it’s a game-changer. Cleaner, softer clothes, fluffier towels, faster drying times, less wear on your washing machine, and money saved. What’s not to love?