- Different Wash Cycles Needed: Towels require a longer, hotter wash to remove bacteria and odors, while clothes, especially delicates, need gentler cycles. Mixing them can result in under-washed towels or over-washed clothes .
- Lint Transfer: Towels shed lint, particularly new ones, which can cling to clothes, especially darker or synthetic fabrics, creating a fuzzy appearance .(persil.com)
- Potential for Damage: The heavy texture of towels can cause pilling or stretching of lighter fabrics, while zippers and buttons on clothes can snag or wear down towel fibers .(thespruce.com)
- Hygiene Concerns: Towels often harbor more bacteria, sweat, and dead skin cells than clothes. Washing them together can spread these germs to items worn close to the skin .
- Uneven Drying: Towels are bulky and absorbent, requiring more water and time to dry. Washing them with clothes can lead to soggy towels or overdried, shrunken clothes .