Taking shorter showers and using a bucket to save water is a good start, but did you know you shouldn’t wash kitchen and bathroom towels together? Cross-contamination can occur due to the combination of dead skin cells and natural oils from your skin mixing with the greasy, grimy, or stained kitchen towels. Jean Calleja from The Eco Laundry Company shared tips on how to clean these towels together in an exclusive interview with Onions Australia.
While washing kitchen and bathroom towels separately is more hygienic, Calleja believes it’s not environmentally friendly. He suggests balancing hygiene with sustainability by using modern machines and detergents effectively in mixed loads. By using a good detergent, hot water, and a strong cycle, you can reduce the risk of bacteria lingering or spreading when washing these towels together.
How to safely and responsibly wash kitchen and bathroom towels together
If you prefer to wash kitchen and bathroom towels together, Calleja recommends pre-treating grease stains with dish soap and using hot water for washing. Washing on the hottest temperature the towels can handle helps sanitize and break down oils and bacteria. Checking the care labels before using hot water is essential, and using a high-quality detergent with enzymes can help break down organic matter effectively.
To neutralize odors and bacteria, white vinegar in the rinse cycle and baking soda in the wash cycle are useful. Calleja also suggests opting for a heavy-duty wash cycle to thoroughly clean and rinse the towels.
Mistakes to avoid when washing kitchen and bathroom towels together
Overloading the machine, using fabric softener, washing in cold water, and leaving wet towels lying around are common mistakes to avoid. Keeping loads moderate, using distilled white vinegar instead of fabric softener, washing in warm or hot water, and airing out towels before washing can help prevent these mistakes. It’s also important to clean your washing machine regularly to ensure clean towels.
