Bath towels may feel clean after a shower, but experts warn that using the same towel for too long can turn it into a breeding ground for bacteria, dead skin cells, and unpleasant odours.
According to Annie Chiu, a dermatologist and founder of The Derm Institute, bath towels should generally be changed after every three to four uses.
Why changing towels matters
Experts say damp towels easily collect bacteria, excess oils, and dead skin cells from the body. Reusing unwashed towels for extended periods can increase the risk of skin irritation, acne flare-ups, and infections.
Dermatologists also warn that towels hanging in humid bathrooms may dry slowly, creating the ideal environment for bacterial growth.
Factors that affect towel hygiene
Several factors can influence how often towels should be washed or replaced. People who sweat heavily due to workouts, outdoor jobs, or hot weather conditions may need to wash towels more frequently.
Humidity levels, towel material, and storage conditions also play an important role. Faster-drying fabrics such as waffle weave towels tend to stay fresher longer compared to traditional terrycloth towels.
Jason Gutierrez, cofounder of textile company Geometry, noted that quick-drying towels may last between seven to 10 days before needing a wash, depending on use and climate conditions.
Environmental factors such as smoke, pet dander, and outdoor pollution can also affect towel cleanliness.
When to replace old towels
Experts recommend replacing towels once they lose softness, absorbency, or begin showing signs of wear such as fraying. Frequent exposure to chlorine, sunlight, and detergent residue can shorten a towel’s lifespan.
Most towels last around two years with proper care, although heavily used towels may wear out sooner.
Instead of throwing away old towels, experts encourage people to donate them to animal shelters or repurpose them as cleaning cloths.