How to Dry Towels Correctly to Prevent Mildew and Odors

Few things feel as disappointing as reaching for a freshly laundered towel only to be met with a damp, musty smell. Towels are designed to absorb moisture, which also makes them susceptible to mildew, bacterial buildup, and unpleasant odors if not dried properly. Fortunately, the solution is simple: learn how to dry towels correctly.

Drying towels the right way is not only important for hygiene but also extends their lifespan, keeps them soft and fluffy, and helps maintain a clean, fresh-smelling home. This guide will walk you through the science, best practices, and expert advice to ensure your towels stay in top shape-every time.

Why Improper Drying Leads to Mildew and Odors

Towels are made of thick, absorbent materials (usually cotton), which retain moisture longer than other fabrics. When a damp towel is:

Left in a pile

Hung improperly

Stored before fully drying
…it creates the perfect conditions for mildew, mold spores, and odor-causing bacteria to thrive.

The warm, moist environment acts like a petri dish. Even a clean towel can develop smells if it isn't dried thoroughly and promptly.

Step-by-Step: How to Dry Towels Correctly

1. Dry Towels Immediately After Washing

Never leave wet towels sitting in the washing machine or laundry basket for hours. Moisture trapped in a confined space breeds mildew quickly—even in freshly washed fabric.

🟩 Best Practice:

Move towels from the washer to the dryer or clothesline as soon as the cycle ends.

If you can't dry them immediately, at least spread them out or hang them temporarily to prevent bunching and promote airflow.

2. Use the Right Drying Method for the Environment

A. Machine Drying

Using a tumble dryer is convenient and effective, especially in colder or more humid climates.

✅ Tips for Machine Drying:

Use the highest heat setting that is safe for the towel fabric (check the care label).

Make sure towels are spaced out in the drum—don’t overcrowd the dryer.

Shake towels before loading to fluff them and promote airflow.

⚠️ Warning: Overdrying on high heat repeatedly can damage fibers over time, making towels scratchy or brittle.

B. Line Drying Outdoors

Sunlight is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer. If you have access to a clothesline or outdoor drying area, use it.

✅ Benefits:

UV rays help kill bacteria

Fresh outdoor air gives towels a crisp scent

Saves energy and extends towel life

🌤️ Pro Tip: Hang towels lengthwise and fully spread out for even drying. Avoid double folds.

C. Indoor Air Drying

If line drying outside isn't an option, you can dry towels inside—just make sure there’s good ventilation.

✅ Setup:

Use a towel rack, not hooks or folded piles

Position near a window, fan, or dehumidifier to reduce moisture

Keep towels fully spread for maximum airflow

Also check How Do You Eliminate Musty Smell from Towels

3. Hang Towels Properly After Each Use

Towels used after bathing or hand washing should be hung immediately—not tossed in a pile or over a doorknob.

🟢 Good Practices:

Use towel bars or wide hooks that allow air to circulate

Ensure the towel dries fully between uses

In shared bathrooms, assign individual towel bars if possible

💡 Why It Matters: A damp towel reused without drying properly between uses will start to smell—even if it looks clean.

4. Don’t Store Towels Until They Are Fully Dry

Even the smallest bit of dampness can lead to musty odors when towels are stored in drawers or closets.

🧼 How to Check:

Feel the towel’s thickest areas (like the hems or seams)

Smell test: If there's any odor at all, let it dry longer

🟢 Storage Tips:

Store towels in a cool, dry place

Don’t stack freshly dried towels too tightly—airflow matters

Consider adding a baking soda sachet or cedar blocks to your linen closet to absorb excess moisture

5. Avoid These Common Drying Mistakes

❌ Overloading the Dryer

Too many towels at once will not dry evenly. Some will come out dry while others are still damp in spots.

✅ Fix: Dry towels in smaller loads for best airflow and heat distribution.

❌ Using Too Much Fabric Softener

Fabric softener may feel nice initially, but over time, it creates a waxy buildup that:

Reduces absorbency

Traps odor

Attracts mildew

✅ Fix: Use white vinegar (½ cup) in the rinse cycle every few washes to remove residue and naturally soften towels.

❌ Leaving Towels in Warm, Humid Rooms

Bathrooms and laundry rooms can be humid hotspots, especially if there’s poor ventilation.

✅ Fix:

Use an exhaust fan or open a window after showering

Hang towels in a drier room if needed

6. Clean Your Dryer and Washing Machine Regularly

If your appliances smell, your towels will too. Residual bacteria, mold, and detergent buildup in your machines can cling to your laundry.

🧽 Monthly Cleaning Routine:

Run a hot cycle with 2 cups of white vinegar (no laundry)

Follow with a cycle using baking soda

Wipe down the rubber seals and drum with disinfectant

✅ Bonus Tip: Clean the lint filter after every dry cycle to ensure good airflow and prevent overheating.

7. Tips for Special Situations

High Humidity Homes

Use a dehumidifier near your laundry area

Place a fan to circulate air around drying towels

Small Living Spaces / Dorms / Hostels

Invest in compact towel racks

Encourage roommates or guests to avoid towel piles

Dry towels near windows or fans

✅ Quick Reference: Best Towel-Drying Practices

Conclusion

The secret to soft, fresh-smelling, mildew-free towels isn’t expensive products or fancy tricks—it’s drying them correctly and consistently. Whether you use a dryer, hang towels on a clothesline, or air-dry indoors, the key is to:

Avoid letting moisture linger

Promote airflow and full drying

Practice good laundry and storage habits

By building these habits into your routine, you’ll extend the life of your towels, maintain a fresher home, and enjoy a better post-shower experience every single time.