Laundry expert shares tips for maintaining towel freshness and softness

Laundry and linen specialist Jo Perks of Hampton & Astley suggests several changes to laundry routines to prevent towels from developing musty odors or becoming scratchy and thin.

To maintain freshness and softness, Perks recommends hanging towels straight after use in well-ventilated areas and ensuring they are completely dry before placing them in a laundry basket. Leaving damp towels scrunched up or sitting in a washing machine can lead to unpleasant smells.

Additional advice includes washing towels at least once a week to prevent the buildup of bacteria and skin oils, and washing new towels before their first use to remove manufacturing chemicals and germs.