Can you wash towels and clothes together? –LifeSavvy

Doing laundry is often a chore you want to get done as quickly as possible. You may think that you can save time by mixing and matching different items: towels and clothing. If they are similar colors, it shouldn’t be a problem, right? But can towels and clothes be washed together?

Unfortunately not. Washing towels and clothes together has very little to do with darks and light ones, and everything to do with the spread of bacteria.

When you wash towels with clothes, you risk transferring bacteria from the towels to your clothes. It’s not sanitary, and you could actually end up making yourself sick if you wear any of that clothing right away and the bacteria is still around.

Instead of throwing your towels and clothes together in the washing machine, make sure you know how to properly wash the towels alone.

First, be sure to always use hot water when washing your towels. Not only will it keep the colors brighter, but it will also help kill any bacteria on the fibers. If you really want to clean them, use a color-safe detergent with bleach. Some washers have specific “towel” settings, but if yours doesn’t, opt for a normal or regular cycle.

Everyone loves a warm, soft towel when they get out of the shower, so avoid going overboard with fabric softener. It can cause buildup and actually shorten the life of your towels. If you are going to use fabric softener, limit it to every third or fourth wash.

Washing your towels separately from your clothes may take a bit more time and effort, but it’s worth it to keep yourself clean and safe and increase the longevity of your favorite fluffy towels.