8 Mistakes That Will Make Your Towels Mildew Fast

When towels start smelling sour or feeling a little damp even when they’re “clean,” mildew’s usually to blame. And once it sets in, it’s tough to get out completely. The thing is, mildew doesn’t need much to grow—just moisture, a little warmth, and time.

Unfortunately, most people accidentally create the perfect conditions without realizing it. If your towels aren’t staying fresh for long, these habits could be the problem.

Leaving Towels in the Washer Too Long

Letting towels sit in the washer after the cycle ends is one of the fastest ways to invite mildew. Even a few hours in that damp, enclosed space can give bacteria time to multiply.

If your towels come out smelling musty even after a wash, this is probably why. Try setting a timer or starting the washer when you know you’ll be home to switch them over right away. The longer they sit wet, the harder it is to get that sour smell out.

Hanging Towels Too Close Together

When towels are packed tight on a single rod or hook, they don’t dry evenly. The parts bunched together stay damp longer, and that creates the perfect breeding ground for mildew.

If you’re tight on space, consider adding extra hooks or a second rod to spread things out. Even better, hang towels in a spot with good air flow so they dry faster. A little space goes a long way in keeping towels fresher between washes.

Skipping the Wash for Too Long

Towels pick up more than water. They trap skin cells, soap residue, and bacteria every time you use them. Waiting too long to wash them gives all that gunk time to settle in and turn sour.

Even if your towel doesn’t look dirty, it’s still collecting moisture and grime. Aim to wash bath towels after every three to four uses—more often if you live somewhere humid or the towel doesn’t dry quickly.

Using Too Much Detergent

More soap doesn’t mean cleaner towels. In fact, using too much detergent can actually leave behind a residue that traps moisture and causes towels to smell funky faster.

If your towels feel stiff or take forever to dry, detergent buildup could be part of the problem. Try cutting back on the amount you use, and run an extra rinse cycle if needed to make sure everything gets washed out properly.

Drying on Low or Not Drying Fully

If towels come out of the dryer even slightly damp, they’re at risk for mildew. Low heat settings might feel safer, but they don’t always get the job done. And air-drying indoors without enough ventilation can cause the same issue.

Make sure your towels are completely dry before folding or storing them. If they feel cool to the touch, they might still be holding moisture, especially in the seams or thicker areas.

Storing Towels in a Closed Cabinet While Damp

Putting even slightly damp towels into a cabinet or linen closet traps the moisture inside, and that stale, musty smell will hit you fast the next time you open the door.

Before storing your towels, make sure they’re totally dry. If you’ve got poor air circulation in your bathroom, consider moving your towel storage to a drier spot—or at least crack the cabinet doors once in a while to let things breathe.

Using Fabric Softener Regularly

Fabric softeners and dryer sheets might make towels feel nice at first, but they also leave behind a waxy coating that builds up over time. That coating traps water and slows down drying, which creates prime conditions for mildew.

If your towels aren’t as absorbent as they used to be—or they start smelling stale—try skipping the softener for a few washes. A little white vinegar in the rinse cycle can help cut through that residue and freshen things up.

Folding While Warm From the Dryer

Towels can feel dry straight out of the dryer, but if they’re still warm, they might be holding moisture deep in the fibers. Folding and stacking them too soon can lock that in.

It’s best to let towels cool completely before putting them away. Give them a shake, let them breathe for a minute, and make sure they’re not holding any heat before you stash them in the closet. It’s a small step that can help stop that sour smell before it starts.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.