How Often Should You Wash Your Towels? Shocking Survey Reveals Poor Hygiene Habits

A survey conducted in the UK among 2,200 residents found that one in ten people only wash their towels twice a year. Even more surprising, 50% of men admitted to washing their towels just once annually.

The survey also found that 67% of participants wash their towels not due to concerns about skin infections or hygiene risks, but simply to make them “look clean”. Additionally, 61% said they wash towels because of bad odors, and 58% mentioned the number of uses as the main motivation to do laundry.

Doctors around the world warn that towels can harbor and spread bacteria and recommend washing them frequently. However 11% of respondents expressed no concern about germs or hygiene.

Martin Smith, who commissioned the survey, stated that the bathroom should be one of the cleanest rooms in the house. “However, our research shows that many people ignore a key aspect of maintaining proper hygiene in the bathroom,” he said.

Smith acknowledged that most respondents do wash their towels regularly, but emphasized that everyone should follow a consistent towel-washing routine in line with health professionals’ recommendations.

“Moist conditions, like those found in used towels, are a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mold,” said dermatologist Dr. Alok Vij in an interview with the Cleveland Clinic website. “These can lead to fungal infections, warts, rashes, or the spread of these issues, including triggering atopic dermatitis.”

To prevent skin problems and maintain cleanliness, Dr. Vij recommends the following:

• Wash towels at least once a week. If someone in the home is sick or if humidity is high, wash them more frequently.
• Do not share towels with other household members, especially children.
• Always hang towels to dry completely after use.
• Use separate towels for hands, hair, body, and face, as recommended by other experts.