How do you get old towels to smell fresh again?

Old towels can start to smell bad for various reasons, such as the accumulation of detergent residues, mold, or bacteria. Here are some tips to make them smell fresh again:

1. Wash with vinegar

First wash: Run the towels in a washing machine with hot water and one cup of vinegar, but do not use any detergent. Keep in mind that vinegar can set colors, so any stains should be removed first.

2. Use the right amount of detergent

Wash the towels again but with All-purpose detergent, dosing according to instructions. Choose a longer wash program, preferably 60°C.

3. Dry properly

Make sure the towels dry completely after washing. Damp towels are a perfect breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Dry the towels completely (almost dry). A tumble dryer makes terrycloth fluffy and nice again, while drying on a line makes them somewhat rougher and not as "fluffy".

• Tumble dryer: Use a tumble dryer to ensure the towels are completely dry.
• Outdoors: If possible, hang the towels outside in the sun. The sun's UV rays help kill bacteria.

4. Avoid fabric softener

Fabric softener can leave a coating on the towels that reduces their absorbency and contributes to bad odors. Instead, use all-purpose detergent that makes the wash soft without fabric softener.

5. Deep cleaning

If the towels still smell, you may need a deeper cleaning:

• Soaking: Soak the towels in a solution of hot water and one cup of baking soda overnight before washing them as usual (preferably at a slightly higher temperature)

6. Extra tips

• Essential oils: Add a few drops of essential oil, such as lavender or tea tree, to the washing machine for an extra fresh scent. Keep in mind that essential oils often contain several allergens; caution should be exercised when using all perfumes.
• Wash often: Wash towels regularly and do not let them sit in the laundry basket for too long.

By following these steps, you can hopefully get your old towels to smell fresh and be like new again.

1. 1. How do you make towels smell good again?
   Answer: Read the guide above and follow the steps.


2. 2. Can you use essential oils to remove bad odors from towels?
   Answer: Essential oils or other perfumes cover up other odors, so they do not remove bad odors. Instead, you should try to wash clean and get rid of the bad odor.


3. 3. How do you prevent them from starting to smell again?
   Answer: Wash often, do not store damp, let dry completely.

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