Many people overlook a simple yet critical hygiene practice: washing their face towels regularly. Dermatologists and cleaning experts agree that frequent laundering is essential to prevent bacterial buildup and skin irritation, but most people don’t wash them often enough.
The Daily Dilemma: How Often is Enough?
Ideally, face towels should be washed after every use. Dr. Julia Milman, a dermatologist, acknowledges this is unrealistic for most people. However, the consensus is that at least daily washing is best, especially if used to dry the face after washing or applying skincare products. If a towel gets fully soaked in the shower, or if cleanser is applied directly to it, it needs immediate washing.
Extending the Interval: When You Can Wait
Dr. Milman suggests extending the time between washes by avoiding using the towel to remove makeup and ensuring it dries completely between uses. She recommends using small, easy-to-rotate towels hung fully open to dry. Separate towels for hands and countertops are crucial to prevent cross-contamination. Reusing a towel once or twice is acceptable if it remains dry and clean, but beyond that, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria.
Why It Matters: Beyond Just “Clean”
This isn’t just about aesthetics. Dirty towels can contribute to skin breakouts and irritation. If you’re experiencing unexplained blemishes despite using good skincare products, your laundry habits may be the culprit. This is especially true if you use harsh detergents or fabric softeners, which can further irritate the skin.
Laundry Best Practices
Fortunately, face towels don’t need to be washed separately. Use warm or hot water with a gentle, fragrance-free detergent. Skip fabric softener, and dry the towels completely on medium to high heat. Towels should be replaced every six to twelve months as they degrade over time.
Beyond Face Towels: Other Overlooked Hygiene Hotspots
The need for frequent washing extends beyond face towels. Experts recommend:
- Pillowcases: Every 2–3 days (especially if you use active skincare)
- Hand towels: Every 1–2 days (high-touch surfaces spread germs easily)
- Bath towels: Every 3–4 uses
- Hats and caps: Weekly if worn often
- Makeup headbands: Every few uses
- Sleep masks: 1–2 times per week
Cleaning pro Tanu Grewal also highlights the overlooked hygiene risk of smartphones, which are pressed against the face and harbor significant bacteria. Regular disinfectant wipes are essential.
“If it touches your face regularly, it should probably see the washing machine regularly.” — Dr. Julia Milman
Ignoring these simple practices can lead to unnecessary skin problems and bacterial spread. Prioritizing clean towels and other frequently used fabrics is a small effort with significant hygiene benefits.
