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Removing grease from towels

Removing grease from towels

There's nothing more annoying than towels that still smell musty after washing. Often, grease lice are the culprit. With this step-by-step plan, you'll get your towels soft and fresh again.

Why towels are especially problematic

Towels retain a lot of moisture and skin oils. At low temperatures and with excessive detergent, a film forms in the fibers. This causes musty odors and a less absorbent feel.

Step-by-step plan: grease lice from towels

  1. Separate and fill. Wash only towels (no clothes). Fill the drum about 80% full to allow water to circulate.
  2. Program & Temperature: Select 60Β°C with an extra rinse. For white cotton towels, use 70–90Β°C according to the label.
  3. Pretreatment: Soak very musty towels for 30 minutes in warm water with a (mild) machine cleaner or a little baking soda. Do not use on microfiber or wool.
  4. Correct dosage. Use detergent strips : 1 strip per full load, Β½ strip for small loads. Overdosing actually causes odor.
  5. No fabric softener. Fabric softener makes fibers less absorbent and can worsen buildup.
  6. Check the machine. Clean the rubber sleeve, soap container, and filter; run an empty hot maintenance wash if the machine smells musty.
  7. Dry thoroughly. Remove from the machine immediately after use and dry completely (outside in the wind or in the dryer). Moisture = odor.

Also read the comprehensive guide on grease lice in the washing machine for maintenance and prevention.

Correct dosage & eco-detergent

The key to odor control is precise dosing . With Simplewas detergent strips , you can use ½–1 strip per load. This leaves less residue in the fiber structure and in your machine. Choose your favorite scent: Sea Breeze or Spring Blossom .

Drying & hygiene

  • Hang towels so that air can pass through them (no stuff in a narrow space).
  • Use the dryer occasionally to β€œbeat” the fibers; this makes them soft.
  • Don't store dirty towels wet in the laundry basket; let them dry on the rack first.

All in all, this results in fresh towels that absorb moisture well again.

FAQ

Does vinegar help with musty towels?

Vinegar can reduce odors, but use it sparingly and not with fabrics like elastane. It's better to use the correct amount, wash warm, and dry thoroughly.

Why no fabric softener?

It forms a coating on fibers, which reduces water absorption and allows them to retain odor.

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