On the long list of your most-used laundry items, towels can be especially hard to keep fresh and clean. Fortunately, all your towels need is a thorough wash. However, not everyone is clued up on how to wash towels to get soft, fluffy and fresh results, especially if you’ve chosen to handwash.
If that’s you, don’t worry, because we’ve got all the tips and tricks you need on how to handwash towels effectively.
Handwashing for the Win!
It could be that your washing machine isn’t working or that your load of towels just isn’t large enough for a machine wash, whatever the reason for handwashing your towels, handwashing offers several advantages:
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Time-Saving: Finding time to do laundry regularly can be tough, especially if you have a busy schedule. Handwashing enables you to quickly clean a few items without the need to wait for a full load to accumulate in the washing machine, helping to save you time.
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Saves Electricity and Money: Using a washing machine requires electricity and water, whereas handwashing uses less water and no electricity. This not only reduces your environmental impact but can result in cost savings on your utility bills.
So the next time you have a few towels lying around in need of a wash, consider the convenience and savings of giving them a quick handwash.
When it comes to washing your towels by hand, fortunately, it’s a pretty straightforward process. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide on how best to wash towels by hand.
Tips and Hacks to Handwash Your Towels Effectively
To handwash your towels you’ll need:
A spacious basin or sink
An effective detergent
Lukewarm water
Follow these steps for a thorough hand wash:
- 1
Select an effective detergent:
Choose a mild but effective hand washing detergent like Sunlight’s powerful 2in1 HandWash Washing Powders for your towels for an effective clean. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals as they can damage the fabric of the towels.
- 2
Prepare a washing solution:
Fill a clean basin or sink with lukewarm water and add your detergent according to the label instructions. Mix well to create a soapy solution.
- 3
Soak the towels:
Place the towels in the soapy water and gently agitate them with your hands. Allow them to soak for about 15 minutes to loosen any stubborn dirt and grime.
- 4
Wash the towels:
Using your hands, gently wash the towels to clean them thoroughly. Pay extra attention to stained or soiled areas.
- 5
Rinse thoroughly:
Drain the soapy water and refill the basin or sink with clean water. Rinse the towels by gently agitating them in the clean water until all the soap is removed.
- 6
Squeeze out excess water:
Gently wring or press the towels against the side of the basin or sink to remove excess water. Be gentle to avoid stretching or distorting the towels.
- 7
Dry the towels:
Hang your towels on a rack to air dry, avoiding direct sunlight as this can cause fading and damage to the towels.
With these steps, you can enjoy terrifically clean and fresh towels all the time. But, to ensure you’re equipped to tackle any type of towel situation, here are some bonus tips.
How to wash smelly towels: Handwashing can help eliminate odours in smelly towels effectively. Before hand washing, create a solution of warm water, baking soda and a bit of lemon juice. Soak the towels in this solution for about 30 minutes to neutralise odours, then proceed to handwash as normal. Ensure that you dry your towels well too, to prevent musty odours from developing.
How to wash new towels: Washing new towels before you first use them is a must to remove any excess lint or chemicals from the manufacturing process. Rinse the towels thoroughly in cold water to remove any residue. Also, avoid using fabric softener as it can reduce the towel’s absorbency and make them less effective in drying.
How to remove tough stains: For stubborn stains on your towels, pre-treating the affected area can help. Mix a solution of equal parts water and vinegar, or water and baking soda, and apply it to the stain before handwashing. Gently rub the stain with your fingers or a soft brush to help loosen the stain before washing.
With these expert tips for handwashing towels, you're well-equipped to maintain the pristine condition and longevity of your beloved bathroom essentials. So follow our steps and tips on tackling handwashing your towels like a pro and enjoy the luxury of wrapping yourself in fluffy, fresh and freshly-washed towels.
