What washer setting for towels

How to Wash & Dry Towels to Keep Them Soft

Whether they’re bath towels, hand towels or washcloths, washing towels the right way and often enough is essential to keeping them fluffy and absorbent. Follow this step-by-step guide for tips on how to wash white and colored towels, as well as how to make towels soft again for the entire family to enjoy.

Towels that aren't washed properly can become stiff and scratchy, making them less pleasant to use. However, knowing how to properly care for your favorite towels before throwing them in the washer or dryer can help keep them feeling light and fresh for years to come.

How often should you wash towels?

You can keep your family’s towels looking new and smelling fresh by washing them after every three uses or so. Towels have close contact with your body and easily absorb water or sweat, but proper cleaning in hot water and high dryer heat can help prevent moist environments where bacteria can grow.

Can I wash towels with clothes and sheets?

While grouping fabrics of similar weight together can help you protect the fibers of items during wash or dry cycles, the absorbent nature of towels make these items best suited for long, hot wash cycles. You can help protect clothing and sheets from damage by sorting them separately.

In addition to protecting the fibers of your clothing and sheets for a soft and comfortable feel, sorting your towels separately allows you to give them a more vigorous clean with hotter water temperatures and dryer heat. Doing so can also help you limit the chances of any possible transfer of bacteria to clothing and sheets.

Why are my towels hard after washing?

Improper washing and drying of your towels can affect their soft and fluffy texture, leaving them feeling hard or rough to the touch. If the wash cycle isn't hot enough, towels can build up soapy residue that can also leave them feeling crunchy and stiff. They can also become hard due to over-drying.

You can help soften your towels and keep them feeling light and fluffy by sticking to hot wash cycles and using only the recommended amount of detergent. After washing, keep them feeling soft by limiting their time spent in the dryer.

How to wash and dry towels

Towels play an important role in keeping us clean and dry, but they can also be a source of bacteria if they are not properly washed. To ensure that your towels are fresh and clean, it is important to follow a few basic guidelines when washing and drying them, such as using hot water and high drying heat.

By following these simple tips, you can help keep your towels feeling clean, fresh and soft. Keep in mind that not all towels are made of the same material and may require different wash and dry settings. Always follow the instructions on your towel’s care tag first and foremost.

Supplies

Step 1: Consult the laundry care label

New towels should be washed before you use them to remove any chemical coatings and to help reduce lint. Before washing, remember to check the care label. Some towels may have trim or other decorative fabrics that are different from the normal cotton towel, which can affect which wash and dry cycle you use.

Step 2: Separate towels by color

To keep white towels bright and help prevent discoloration, wash them in a separate load. Brightly colored or dark towels should be washed in their own loads to prevent fading or dye transfer. You’ll also want to wash towels in a load without clothes to avoid any possible transfer of bacteria.

Step 3: Load towels in the washer

Load towels loosely in the washer—towels need to be able to move around the wash basket for a thorough clean. Some larger capacity washers can handle more towels at once, but take care not to overload.

Step 4: Add detergent and other additives

Add detergent as you normally would for a regular load. Swash^® laundry detergent¹ is designed with a pre-measured pour dosage cap to help you use the right amount. If your towels are beginning to feel stiff, you may want to consider adding a little bit less detergent. Residue from too much detergent can build up over time and be harder to wash out.

If you’re using bleach to brighten up or sanitize white towels, add about a half cup of liquid bleach in the bleach dispenser or to the wash water before loading the towels.

How to soften towels

While fabric softener or dryer sheets may seem tempting for softening towels, the chemicals can affect absorbency of your towels and leave behind a coating that repels instead of soaking up water. Instead, add up to a half cup of white distilled vinegar or baking soda to help soften fibers and get rid of musty odors.

Step 5: Choose the right washing cycle and settings and wash your towels

Towels should be washed in the warmest water appropriate for the fabric according to the care label. Generally, warm or hot water is recommended for washing towels. Use a cycle specifically for towels or a normal/regular cycle. A sanitizing cycle can also be used, but may not be recommended for every wash, depending on the towel fabric. Some washer models, like Whirlpool^® top load washing machines with Intuitive Controls, help you choose a cycle based on what you’re washing and how you’re washing it.

Step 6: Transfer to dryer and select the right dryer setting for towels

Once the wash cycle is complete, transfer towels to the dryer right away to avoid any build-up of musty smells. To help towels dry faster, give them a good shake before loading to help release any creases or crumples.

Towels should be dried with the warmest heat appropriate for the fabric according to the laundry care label. Generally, they should be dried on low to medium heat. Use a dryer setting specifically for towels or a normal/regular cycle. High heat and overdrying can cause fabric damage, so be sure to remove the towels promptly once they’re dry. Some dryers contain moisture sensors that stop the cycle automatically when clothes are dry, including these models from Whirlpool brand. You can also add wool or rubber dryer balls to help soften towels and help with drying efficiency.

Step 7: Fold towels when dry

Wait until towels are completely dry before removing them from the dryer, as any remaining moisture can cause musty smells. Fold towels and store them in a cool, dry spot to keep them fresh and fluffy.

Looking to upgrade your laundry pair for optimal performance? Take a look at smart washers and dryers from Whirlpool brand.

Shop Whirlpool

^® washers and dryers to tackle your towel loads

One of the best ways to keep your towels looking and feeling great is to wash and dry them properly. Keep your family’s well-loved towels looking and feeling their best with the Smooth Wave Stainless Steel Wash Basket of select Whirlpool^® washing machines. Then, give your laundry loads an optimal dry with Whirlpool^® dryers.

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Explore more laundry cleaning how-tos with Whirlpool

How to Wash a Comforter Without It Getting Lumpy Get all of your bedding clean with our guide on how to wash a comforter without it getting lumpy. Our tips make it easy to care for your comforter.
How to Clean a Shower Curtain and Liner Cleaning your shower curtain keeps it free of mold, mildew and soap scum. Learn how to wash plastic and fabric shower curtains with this step-by-step guide.
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^{1. Swash and the recommending brands are owned and distributed by Whirlpool Corporation.}

How to Select Washer Settings for Clothes and Towels

And of Course, Sheets

Mary Marlowe Leverette

Mary Marlowe Leverette is one of the industry's most highly-regarded housekeeping and fabric care experts, sharing her knowledge on efficient housekeeping, laundry, and textile conservation. She is also a Master Gardener with over 40 years' experience; writing for over 20 years.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

Updated on 09/30/22

Reviewed by

Brandon Pleshek

Reviewed by Brandon Pleshek

Brandon Pleshek of Clean That Up! is a seasoned veteran of the cleaning industry with over 20 years of experience in commercial and residential cleaning. He is a member of The Spruce's Cleaning and Organizing Review Board

Learn more about The Spruce's Review Board

Fact checked by

Sarah Scott

Fact checked by Sarah Scott

Sarah Scott is a fact-checker and researcher who has worked in the custom home building industry in sales, marketing, and design.

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The Spruce / Kelly Miller

In This Article

Load Size
Water Temperature

Washing machines (and dryers) have come a long way since the first wringer washers. While today's machines make the task easier, the choices, such as what washer and dryer settings to choose, have increased dramatically. The cycles you pick will affect the cleanliness and longevity of your clothes.

For each load of laundry, there are three washer setting choices that must be made before you start the appliance:

Load size and/or water level
Water temperature for wash and rinse cycles
Cycle setting, which ranges from delicate wash to bulky

The following important tips help you to choose the correct washer settings that keep your clothes clean and in good shape.

Load Size

Small, Medium, Large, or Super Large: What do they mean? Before you try to guess, read your washer manual. You'll find information to help you make choices about load size. The most accurate method of determining load size is by weight in relation to the washer tub capacity. There are general rules about which setting to use based on the level of clothes in the drum.

Small Load: Approximately one-quarter full
Medium Load: Approximately one-half full
Large Load: Over one-half full
Super Large Load: At full capacity

The Spruce / Kori Livingston

Water Temperature

Choosing the right water temperature for each load can prevent clothes from fading, stretching, or shrinking. Again, you have a guide on the labels of the clothes and linens. One of the keys to success is sorting your laundry correctly and washing similar items together.

The old rule was to use hot water for the best results. That is no longer true because many of today's fabrics can be damaged by hot water. Follow these tips:

Cold Water: Best for dark colors and delicate fabrics. It is also a perfect choice for any lightly-soiled clothes, like office wear. Cold water will not harm any washable fabric and saves on utility costs.
Warm Water: Best for synthetic, permanent press fabrics. Warm water should be chosen for any colored garments that are heavily soiled with oil or stains.
Hot Water: Best for white cotton fabrics that are worn or used close to the body like underwear, socks, and bedsheets. If you have laundry that has really heavy soil—like work jeans, mechanics' overalls, or kids' play clothes—and cleanliness is more important than protecting the color, hot water may be needed to remove the stains.

The rinse cycle water temperature should always be cold. This will save money on utility costs, and warmer temperatures are not needed for rinse cycles.

The Spruce / Paige McLaughlin

The Spruce / Kori Livingston

Click Play to Learn How to Select the Correct Washer Cycle for Clothes

Cycle Selection

Using the correct cycle for washing and spinning will help clean your clothes and keep them looking their best. Below, see the various washer settings explained to help you choose the right cycle every time.

Delicate, Hand Wash, or Wool: These settings are very similar and interchangeable, and they should be used for delicate, fragile items like lingerie, lace, and silk. They feature lower speeds of agitation or tumbling during the wash cycle as well as lower speed spins. The lower speed and shorter wash cycle will help prevent the stretching and ripping of fabric, which also makes them appropriate washer settings for shoes.
Rapid Wash or Speed Wash: In an ideal world, you would never use this cycle because laundry would be done in full loads. However, in reality, quite often there is a last-minute need for a special shirt or uniform to be washed alone. This setting has a shortened wash cycle and a high-speed spin to shorten drying times. It is not recommended for heavily soiled items or delicate items.
Permanent Press, Wrinkle Control, Casual Clothes, or Dark Colors: This is the washer setting to use for dark clothes, colored fabrics, most synthetic fabrics, blended fabrics, and permanent press clothes. The four cycles are interchangeable and use medium-speed wash action, a low-speed spin, and a cool-down or rest period to reduce wrinkling.
Normal: This cycle is for cotton or blended fabrics with average soil. The cycle combines high-speed wash action and high-speed spin, making it harsher on clothes.
Heavy Duty: Select this washer setting for towels and sturdy fabrics like jeans. It is also appropriate for heavily soiled items. The cycle offers a longer wash cycle with high-speed agitation and a high-speed spin to remove as much moisture as possible.
Bulky: Some machines have a washer setting for blankets and other bulky items like comforters, rugs, and pillows. The cycle begins with a soak period to allow water and detergent to completely penetrate the items. A medium wash action and spin are used to help prevent the washer from vibrating or becoming off-balance.
Sheets: If there's a separate setting for sheets, this should be used on bedsheets and any linens or large pieces of fabric. The wash action is set to prevent large items from tangling or wadding up into a ball. If not, select the Normal cycle for the ideal casual wash cycle.
Whites: On most machines, the whites cycle is designed for bleachable white items. This cycle will dispense the liquid chlorine bleach at the correct time in the washing process. The whites cycle has a high-speed wash and spin cycle.
Steam: Many top-level washers now offer a steam cycle. The steam cycle does not wash clothes. It should be used to quickly remove wrinkles and freshen a garment. It does not provide deep cleaning, but it's a great washer setting for dress shirts when a thorough wash on the delicate cycle is not needed.
Rinse and Spin: This cycle does not use detergent or provide deep cleaning. It simply rinses and then spins out the moisture from fabrics.
Soil Level: Some washers have changeable soil level settings. If you select low soil, the agitation time will be shorter but increases as the settings are changed.
Spin Speed: If your washer has settings for the final spin speed that can be changed, select a lower spin speed for delicate fabrics to reduce wrinkling, tangling, and damage to the fabric. Higher final spin speeds extract more water, reduce drying time, and help you select a quicker dryer cycle.

The 8 Best Stackable Washers and Dryers of 2023

The Spruce / Kori Livingston

Article Sources

The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

How to Sort Laundry. Utah Education Network.
Laundry. United States Department of Energy.

How to wash towels | Helpful Hints

Have you noticed that after washing your towels become hard and lose their former brightness? In this article, you will learn a few secrets on how to wash towels so that they stay soft for a long time.

A terry towel will regain its pleasant smell and retain its brightness when washed with baking soda, ammonia and laundry soap.

How to wash towels: machine wash

The main reason is the wrong choice of detergents, hard water, improper washing and drying. There are several important rules for washing towels. It is important to know how to bleach towels and what is the best laundry detergent to use.

Important! Before washing, carefully read the care instructions on the label of the towel.

Never use detergent. The fabric of a terry towel consists of many loops of villi. Detergent particles can get stuck and stiffen the fabric. Use a liquid powder such as OMO.
Add some mild baking soda to your detergent to keep the product bright. You can also use detergents for colored laundry.
How to bleach towels. If the towel is very dirty, we recommend that you first remove the stains with laundry soap. Rub the stain with soap, leave for 30-40 minutes, then rinse and put in the machine. If soap does not help, try moistening the stain with ammonia. However, be careful - this method can rub off the paint, so be sure to test on a small area before using. Do not use bleach - towels will become hard.
Always separate white towels from colored towels and do not wash them together to avoid staining in the machine.
Wash towels in a mesh bag so that they do not come into contact with the washer drum. When rubbing against the drum, they can stretch out and fall off.
Choose the right mode for washing towels. To keep your towels soft and fluffy, do not wash them on a water saver setting.
At what temperature should towels be washed? It is not recommended to wash terry towels at very high speeds. The optimum washing temperature is 30-40 °C. Can be washed at 60°C as long as there is no prohibition on the label.
Do not overload the machine with laundry. We recommend filling the drum to a maximum of 2/3 so that the bearing does not wear out prematurely.

Once you've washed and bleached your towels, it's important to dry them properly. Drying terry towels is best in the fresh air and in the shade - in the bright sun they can fade and become hard. To make towels fluff better, soak them in salted water for 30 minutes before drying, rinse well and wring out gently.

How to wash towels: hand wash

Mini-survey

Have any new types of dirt/stains appeared on your clothes during the lockdown?

Yes, new types of spots were encountered

There were few new types of spots

No, there were no new types of spots

Some people 900 02 they fear that after washing in the washing machine, terry towels will no longer be as pleasant to the touch and fluffy as before. Therefore, in our article we will talk about the old reliable method of how to wash terry towels by hand.

Washing of towels manually: Instruction

You will need:

Deep pelvis (if not, can be washed directly in the bath)
Liquid detergent, such as OMO
9% 9% V!
Salt

Step-by-step instructions:

Fill a container suitable for washing with warm water. Dissolve the detergent to create lather.
Add vinegar to soften water (200 ml per 10 liters of water).
Soak terry towels in this solution for 40 minutes.
After soaking, drain off the soap solution and rinse the towel under running water.
Rinse the container thoroughly and refill it with clean, warm water.
Dissolve a few tablespoons of salt in water. This will restore softness to the towel and make it fluffy.
Rinse towel in saline solution.
Drain and wring out the fabric.
Hang towels to dry outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.

In our article, you learned how to wash towels so that they remain soft and bright for a long time. for many years.

Key Points

Useful tips on how to wash terry towels to keep them soft and shiny:

Secrets for the conservation of softness and brightness of towels
Basic rules for washing towels in the typewriter
Hand -wash instructions
Basic Tricks of Trick
Cleaning Remember
Ways to soften water
Choosing the right wash
Ways to bleach towels

How to wash terry towels so that they are soft

If the terry towel becomes hard after washing, it means that the washing rules have been violated. Don't worry, there is a way out. From the article you will learn how to properly wash terry towels so that they retain their softness and color. You will also learn how to restore the original appearance of washed products.

Which modes are suitable for washing towels

If you load towels into the washer, fill in the usual detergent and set the fast program, you will pull out hard and poorly washed items.

What affects the quality of washing

Looking at the surface of a terry cloth product through a magnifying glass, you can see hundreds of eyelets. They give softness, good water permeability to products. A new towel always quickly absorbs moisture, while a washed one only scratches the skin. Due to improper care, the fabric is damaged. This is facilitated by:

Hard water. The high content of salts leads to the fact that they settle on the surface of the fabric. Mahra sticks together, becomes stiff and scratches the skin.
Unsuitable powder. For terry products, as well as for delicate, woolen fabrics, a special liquid agent is required.
Invalid mode. The further type of product depends on the program on which the washing is carried out. High temperature (boiling) and high spin speed lead to loss of fabric quality.
Drying in the open sun or near a heat source. As a result, the fabric dries out and becomes stiff.
Wrong ironing mode. Only steaming is allowed, not dry ironing.

How to wash a towel at home?

Which wash cycle to use

First, separate the white towels from the colored ones. Choose a standard program with a full cycle: it involves the use of a large amount of water, which reduces friction between products. It is advisable to install an additional spin. At what temperature to wash? Not higher than 60 degrees for white towels, and 40 degrees for colored ones. The latter are subject to molting, so it is better not to take risks and keep the color of the product.

Heavily soiled garments can be washed by soaking in soapy water overnight.

You can use balls with pimples to “break” the terry.

Spin

Spin power should not exceed 500 revolutions. When you select the delicate washing mode, the spin cycle runs at the minimum speed, but you can turn it off altogether. Then be sure to dry the product in the fresh air, otherwise it will rot.

How to wash terry towels

Use liquid bottled powders or disposable soap nuts that are tossed into the drum.

To maintain softness, use folk remedies:

Salt has softening properties. Add three tablespoons to the compartment of the dispenser tray, or dilute the salt in a container of water and pour into the tank.
Add 3% or 9% vinegar to the dispenser section. When washing by hand, add vinegar directly to the tub or basin.
Soda softens fibers. Pour three or four tablespoons into the powder compartment. So does baking soda and vinegar.

You can use a silicone based rinse aid. The cleaning filter will help to constantly soften the water: good quality water will flow into the washing machine, then less detergent will be needed.

How to soften towels after washing

To make rough towels soft after washing, leave them to soak overnight in warm water. Then squeeze lightly and dry. Another option is to soften towels: after washing, soak the products in water with salt for several hours.

You can always renew and refresh terry products. But it is better not to bring things to a deplorable state.

How to dry towels

It's best to do it outdoors. Try to avoid direct sun, otherwise the fabric will dry out and become stiff. Ideal - outdoors in the shade. You can install a dryer on the balcony and hang towels there, or just spread it on the surface - but then a cotton cloth is placed under the bottom.

Care instructions

Do not put towels together with other dirty things, the fabric quickly absorbs odors.