How Often Should You Wash Your Towels?

Towels are one of those everyday essentials we often overlook. They dry us off, keep us cozy, and, unfortunately, if not cleaned regularly, can secretly wreak havoc on your skin. If you've been dealing with sudden breakouts or irritated skin, your towel habits might be to blame. Here's what you need to know to keep your skin glowing and acne-free.

The hidden culprit in your skincare routine
Think of your towel as a sponge that absorbs everything—moisture, oils, dead skin cells, and even leftover makeup. Over time, all that build-up becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. When you reuse that towel day after day, you're pressing those germs right back onto your skin, disrupting your skincare efforts.

How often should you wash your towels?
Experts recommend swapping face towels out every 1–3 uses, especially if you have oily or acne-prone skin. Using a fresh towel daily is even better if your skin flares up easily. When it comes to body towels, washing them after 3–4 uses is a safe bet.

Tips for a skin-safe laundry routine
Skip the heavy detergents: Use fragrance-free, gentle detergents that won't irritate your skin.
Use high heat: Wash towels in hot water to kill off bacteria effectively.
Avoid fabric softeners: They leave residue on your towels that could transfer to your skin, potentially clogging pores.