Let’s be honest: after a busy week, it’s tempting to toss towels and clothes into the same load and hit “Start.” But that innocent shortcut often backfires. While combining them might seem efficient, it can actually wear out your items faster, dull your favorite clothes, and even spread unexpected germs.
I used to do it, too—until I began noticing lint-covered tees, stiff towels, and clothes that just didn’t feel right after washing. That’s when I dug deeper and discovered there’s big laundry logic behind separating towels from clothing. Here’s what I learned. Why Towels and Clothes Don’t Mix:
- Different Wash Needs – Towels need hot, intense cycles; clothes (especially delicates) don’t.
- Lint Issues – Towels shed lint that sticks to clothes and clogs dryer vents.
- Fabric Damage – Rough towels can snag or wear out delicate clothing.
- Hygiene Risk – Towels carry bacteria and can spread germs to clothes.
- Uneven Drying – Towels dry slowly, causing over-dried clothes or damp towels.
- Shorter Lifespan – Mixed loads wear out fabrics faster.
Laundry Tips:
- Wash towels hot, clothes cooler.
- Dry separately: high heat for towels, low/medium for clothes.
- Avoid fabric softener on towels.
- Clean your machine monthly.
Bottom Line:
Separate towels and clothes for cleaner, longer-lasting laundry.
