How to Protect Towels from Mildew and Humidity: Summer Tips for Guests and Property Owners

Keeping your towels fresh is essential as summer temperatures climb, and seaside escapes become more common. Whether you’re a vacation rental owner juggling laundry duties or a guest soaking up the sun during a getaway, mastering the art of mildew prevention will help ensure your towels remain soft, absorbent, and free of unpleasant odors.

In this blog, InnStyle is excited to share some friendly and practical tips for keeping your towels in top shape all season long.

What Causes Mustiness in Towels?

Towels become musty primarily due to moisture retention and inadequate drying. When towels remain damp—whether from frequent use, improper storage, or insufficient drying—they create an environment conducive to mold and mildew growth. High summer humidity exacerbates this issue, making proactive care crucial.

Washing Towels: Best Practices

Proper washing techniques are vital to prevent mildew:

• Wash towels separately and frequently: Avoid mixing towels with other laundry to ensure thorough cleaning. Wash bath towels after 3-4 uses and beach towels after each use.
• Add white vinegar and baking soda: Incorporate distilled white vinegar (1 cup, no detergent) during the rinse cycle to neutralize odors and break down detergent buildup. Then, deep clean and deodorize towels with baking soda (1/2 cup).
• Avoid fabric softeners: These can leave waxy residues that reduce absorbency and promote mildew.
• Rinse thoroughly: Leftover detergent can stiffen towels and lock in odors.

Drying Towels Effectively

Ensuring towels dry completely is essential:

• Immediate drying: Transfer towels to the dryer promptly after washing to prevent mildew.
• Avoid overdrying on high heat: Dry towels on the highest heat setting appropriate for the fabric, following the manufacturer’s instructions. High dryer settings can fry the fibers, leading to stiffness and premature wear.
• Line drying: When possible, hang towels outdoors in sunlight, which naturally disinfects and freshens fabrics. Ensure towels are spread out and not bunched to dry evenly.
• Proper air circulation: Damp bathrooms or hampers can trap moisture. Hang towels after use to let them fully dry between washes.
• Ensure complete dryness: Make sure the towels are thoroughly dry before folding and storing.

Storing Towels to Prevent Mildew

Proper storage can inhibit mildew growth:

• Air circulation: Store towels in well-ventilated areas to allow moisture to dissipate.
• Avoid over-stacking: Do not tightly pack towels, as this restricts airflow and retains moisture.
• Use breathable containers: Use open shelving or baskets instead of sealed plastic bins.

Quick Tips for Guests

Guests can help maintain towel freshness during their stay:

• Hang towels properly: After use, spread towels out on racks or hooks to dry thoroughly.
• Avoid leaving damp towels on surfaces: This prevents moisture from seeping into furniture or floors.
• Report issues: Inform property owners of any persistent dampness or odors.

Maintenance Tips for Property Owners

Property owners can implement routines to keep towels fresh:

• Regular laundering: Wash towels frequently, especially in high-traffic rentals.
• Inspect for damage: Regularly check towels for signs of wear or mildew and replace them as needed.
• Provide adequate drying space: Ensure bathrooms have sufficient towel racks or hooks, and make sure towels are 100% dry before folding and storing them.
• Educate guests: Leave notes or guides on proper towel usage and care.

Here is some additional information to clarify the details mentioned above:

Eco-Friendly Mildew Prevention Techniques

Hosts and guests who prioritize sustainability can take several eco-friendly steps to prevent mildew while minimizing environmental impact. First, natural deodorizers like baking soda or distilled white vinegar are effective and gentle on fabrics. These alternatives eliminate residues and odors without introducing synthetic chemicals into the water system.

Whenever possible, line dry towels outdoors; this saves energy and utilizes the sun’s natural UV rays to kill bacteria and mildew spores. It’s also essential to rinse off excess sand and salt after each beach use and allow towels to air dry thoroughly between uses.

Storage Tips for Humid Climates

In high-humidity regions, proper towel storage becomes even more critical. Always avoid storing towels in bathrooms or closets without ventilation, as stagnant, moist air accelerates mildew development. Instead, choose areas with active airflow, like a hallway linen closet with a vent or near a window. You can also use desiccants like silica gel packs or moisture absorbers to keep enclosed spaces dry. Rolling towels instead of folding them can help reduce moisture accumulation and allow for better air movement. If you must store towels in a confined space, open the cabinet doors occasionally to let in fresh air, and never put away a towel that’s even slightly damp.

What to Do If Towels Already Smell Mildewy

If your towels already have that musty or sour odor, don’t throw them out. Start by washing them with a cup of white vinegar in the hot water cycle, followed by a second wash using baking soda. This dual treatment helps break down mildew and eliminate stubborn odors without harsh chemicals. After washing, dry them thoroughly, preferably outdoors in sunlight. If the smell lingers, ensure your washing machine is clean and mold build-up-free. Consider increasing air circulation in your laundry area, as poor ventilation often contributes to recurring mildew. Finally, quickly use these freshly treated towels and monitor their freshness to prevent future problems. As a last resort, if the smell is still present, try washing the towels in the hottest water, which kills germs and bacteria while removing residues. However, only do this sparingly because hot water can cause shrinking and fraying with prolonged use. Warm water is for regular use, but hot water should only be used when needed.

InnStyle’s Conclusion

Maintaining fresh, mildew-free towels during the humid summer requires consistent care and attention. By following these guidelines, guests and property owners can enjoy the comfort of clean, pleasant-smelling towels, enhancing the overall experience.

InnStyle offers a wide variety of products, including towels and cleaners for purchase. If you have any questions about these products, please contact InnStyle to speak with one of our account managers. They will be glad to assist you and provide recommendations. InnStyle can be reached at 267-354-6020, and its website is https://www.innstyle.com/.