"If You Have This at Home, Throw It Out Immediately"...Why This Everyday Item Becomes Risky After 2 Years

Face Towels Should Be Replaced Every 1 to 2 Years
Washing Separately and Thorough Drying Are Also "Essential"

Experts have issued a warning that towels, which may appear clean on the surface, can in fact be breeding grounds for bacteria. When towels are used repeatedly while still damp, they create an environment where bacteria and mold can multiply rapidly, negatively impacting skin health. Experts advise that towels used for more than two years should be replaced.

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Good Housekeeping, a U.S. lifestyle magazine, recently provided guidance on how to wash and store towels, as well as the appropriate replacement cycle, urging caution. Leaving towels damp for extended periods allows not only bacteria such as Staphylococcus and E. coli, but also mold, to proliferate quickly. These microorganisms thrive in warm, humid conditions and are especially active on towels hanging in bathrooms.

Research has shown that even a single use can cause a significant increase in the bacterial count on towels. Using a contaminated towel to wipe your face or body can raise the risk of skin issues or inflammation. As the number of uses increases, the fibers wear out, reducing absorbency. Damaged fibers not only fail to retain moisture effectively but also become rough, which can irritate the skin.

Odor Is a Warning Sign...Follow Proper Washing Cycles

If your towel starts to emit an unpleasant odor, it is already a sign that mold or bacteria are proliferating. Experts recommend washing face towels every two to three days, or daily if usage is heavy. Bath towels should be washed after three to four uses. Towels used at external facilities such as gyms or swimming pools should be washed immediately after use, as they are more likely to be exposed to airborne bacteria while damp with sweat.

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Laundry Habits Determine Towel Lifespan

There are important precautions to take during washing as well. Fabric softeners can coat towel fibers, reducing absorbency and slowing drying time, which creates a favorable environment for bacterial growth. To prevent dust or bacteria from other clothing from transferring, it is best to wash towels separately whenever possible. However, washing too many towels at once can cause excessive friction, leading to faster fiber damage, so it is advisable to stick to an appropriate load size.

After washing, complete drying is essential. If using a dryer, dry towels thoroughly for 30 minutes to an hour. For air drying, hang towels in direct sunlight until they are completely dry, even inside the fibers. If you are concerned about towels becoming stiff, adding dryer balls and drying them at around 50 to 60 degrees Celsius can help.

Replace Every 1 to 2 Years

Face towels, which are used most frequently, wear out quickly and pose greater hygiene risks, so it is generally recommended to replace them every one to two years. Bath towels should be replaced every two to three years, and foot towels or bathroom mats should be replaced approximately every two years. If towels are shared among family members or multiple people, their lifespan may be even shorter, making annual replacement advisable. Even if a towel has been used for less than a year, if it continues to smell after washing and drying, it is best to replace it without hesitation.