KEAN'S

Almost everyone has experienced a bad smelling towel at least once!

What causes the objectionable odor?

Last month we stated that bacteria would grow on swimsuits if left in a closed bag or locker. Towels suffer from similar problems if left untreated.

• A bath towel absorbs soil, perspiration and dead skin cells, by the millions, every time it’s used (and not washed).
• When active kids skimp on soap (and we know that many do), they believe, wrongly, that the towel itself will “clean” their body and take the place of soap.
• IF, they throw the damp towel onto a pile, or leave it on the floor — and do not it hang up and spread it out — bacteria can start to form and odors begin.
• If you experience this odor, wash the towels as hot as possible with detergent and a quarter cup of color-safe bleach.
• Make sure to remove them from the washer as soon as the wash cycle is over.

Next Month: Smelly Towels and your washer!

This tip is © The Clothing Doctor and used with permission. May not be reproduced in any form without written permission.