The Truth About Washing Towels and Clothes Together

Tips to Keep Laundry Fresh

• Separate Loads When Possible: Towels, sheets, and heavily soiled clothing deserve their own load.
• Use Fabric Softener Carefully: Some fabrics don’t absorb fabric softener well, and towels can become less absorbent.
• Clean the Washer Regularly: Residue from towels can build up in your machine, leading to odors or bacteria growth.
• Shake Towels Before Drying: This reduces lint transfer and improves drying efficiency.

The Bottom Line

Washing towels and clothes together isn’t inherently dangerous, but it’s usually better to separate them to maintain cleanliness, fabric longevity, and hygiene. Towels have unique needs—heavier weight, longer drying times, and higher lint production—that make them better suited for their own dedicated load.

With the right sorting and care, your laundry can stay soft, fresh, and free of lint—and your clothes and towels will last longer.