Almost everyone has experienced a bad smelling towel at least once!
What causes the objectionable odor?
Last month we stated that bacteria would grow on swimsuits if left in a closed bag or locker. Towels suffer from similar problems if left untreated.
- A bath towel absorbs soil, perspiration and dead skin cells, by the millions, every time it’s used (and not washed).
- When active kids skimp on soap (and we know that many do), they believe, wrongly, that the towel itself will “clean” their body and take the place of soap.
- IF, they throw the damp towel onto a pile, or leave it on the floor — and do not it hang up and spread it out — bacteria can start to form and odors begin.
- If you experience this odor, wash the towels as hot as possible with detergent and a quarter cup of color-safe bleach.
- Make sure to remove them from the washer as soon as the wash cycle is over.
Next Month: Smelly Towels and your washer!
