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Fresh towel, fresh day — it’s a small luxury many of us take for granted. But once that towel hits the laundry basket, a familiar debate begins: Should it be washed at 40°C, 60°C, or even hotter?
The old rule of “hotter is better” is surprisingly outdated. Thanks to modern detergents and efficient washing machines, everyday grime — from sunscreen to sweat — is easily removed at 30°C or 40°C. For most households, that’s all you need to keep towels clean and fresh.
But here’s the twist: even a 90°C wash won’t guarantee a germ‑free result. Bacteria can hide inside the machine itself, especially in rubber seals and detergent drawers. During the final rinse, which uses cooler water, they can make their way back onto your laundry.
So when is a hotter wash necessary? According to hygiene expert Daniel Vila from V‑Zug, 60°C is recommended when someone in the household is sick, when towels are heavily soiled, or when dealing with allergies. Cleaning cloths and mops also belong in the hot‑wash category because they encounter far more bacteria than bath towels.
Drying plays a starring role too. A towel that stays damp for too long becomes a breeding ground for odors — and the bacteria that cause them. The solution is simple: let towels dry completely, preferably outside or in a tumble dryer.
And if you’re tempted to add fabric softener for that extra‑fluffy feel, think twice. It reduces absorbency, damages fibers, and can even make towels more flammable. A dryer alone can achieve the same softness without the downsides.
- Hector Pascua with reference from heute.at/picture: Image by Steve Buissinne from Pixabay
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