So you’ve noticed that your bath towels are smelling a little… unpleasant. Or maybe you’ve noticed that your towels aren’t as absorbent as they used to be. Or maybe you’ve noticed both! While this may seem like a bad omen for your towels, don’t give up hope just yet! Because there’s actually a very simple solution to both problems, since both problems have the same root cause: detergent and fabric softener build-up.
Because bath towels are so absorbent, sometimes washing machines have a hard time rinsing out all the detergent and fabric softener residue. The residue that remains builds up over time and can eventually attract mold and even “waterproof” your towels! And so you end up with smelly, non-absorbent bath towels. But as I said before, there is an easy way to fix these problems and you can do it in three simple steps!
But before we get to the heart of the process, let’s explore a little about how it actually works.
How does this method work?
This method uses white vinegar and baking soda to dissolve any problem-causing buildup lurking in your towels. Vinegar contains acetic acid, which helps break down mineral deposits and dissolves all types of dirt. And baking soda is alkaline in nature, which helps neutralize odors while dissolving dirt and grease!
Using them one after the other as described below is an easy way to eliminate several potential sources of odor and build-up as effectively as possible! And here’s how you can do it at home.
How to fix smelly towels in 3 steps
You will need:
1 cup white vinegar
1/2 cup baking soda
Directions:
Step 1 – Wash with vinegar
Place the towels in the washer along with 1 cup of white vinegar. Start a wash cycle with the hottest water your machine offers.
Step 2 – Washing with baking soda
After the wash cycle is finished, leave the towels in the washing machine. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of baking soda on the towels and start a second wash cycle with hot water.
Step 3 – Dry completely
After the second wash is complete, be sure to dry your towels ON TOP. You can put them in the dryer, hang them on a rope or whatever you prefer.
This one or two shots of vinegar and baking soda should take care of most mold and odor problems. If the towels still smell a little funky after doing all three steps, you should take care of that by repeating the three steps again. (I also want to note that this method is a cleansing treatment and should not be used as a daily washing method.)
Now that you know how to restore freshness to your towels, let’s discuss how to keep them that way! 🙂 Here are some tips to keep your towels clean and smelling fresh.
My top tips for towels!
- Make sure your towels are completely dry before folding and storing. Even a small amount of moisture can make towels smell sour!
- After drying off after a bath or shower, be sure to hang up your towel to dry. (And hang your bath rug to dry while you do it, too!)
- Make sure you use the correct amount of detergent. Excess detergent leaves a residue on towels, especially in high-efficiency washing machines that use less water.
- Never use fabric softener. Leftover fabric softener will quickly make your towels less absorbent. Instead, add white vinegar to the rinse cycle as a natural fabric softener! It will leave your towels soft while preventing pilling and eliminating static electricity.
Related: How to Make a Scented Vinegar Fabric Softener Rinse
Have you ever experienced “smelly towel syndrome” with your towels?
