Towels smell musty because they do not dry quickly enough. If a towel remains damp, bacteria and mould can grow, causing the familiar musty smell. Hang towels well apart, ventilate the bathroom after showering, and wash them at a suitable temperature to prevent the smell.
Why do towels smell musty?
A towel is damp after every use and is often hung in the bathroom, the dampest room in the house. If the towel does not dry within a few hours, microorganisms have the opportunity to grow. A new wash will temporarily remove the smell, but it will return as soon as the conditions remain the same. The problem is therefore usually not just the towel itself, but the drying conditions around it.
The bathroom as a source of moisture
According to GGD Leefomgeving, moisture is the main cause of mould. The GGD advises, among other things, to shower for no more than 5 minutes in the bathroom, to dry the walls and floor with a squeegee after showering, and to leave the extractor fan on long enough. The GGD also advises a gap of at least 1 centimetre under the door. Without that airflow, the damp air lingers, and that is reflected in your towels.
How to dry towels faster
Hang towels out flat after use, not folded over a hook. Use a drying rack or multiple hooks so that they do not touch each other. After showering, open a window or let the mechanical extractor fan run, as Milieu Centraal also advises when showering. If possible, also dry towels outside or in a well-ventilated place in between. For towels that already smell musty: wash them at the temperature indicated on the label, and do not use too much detergent or fabric softener, as residues can retain moisture. Do not leave them in the washing machine after washing.
If you dry laundry indoors, a dry room with sufficient air circulation is most important. Our article how to dry laundry indoors without a dryer and without mould explains how to do this.
When does a dehumidifier help?
In a small, enclosed room, a dehumidifier can help laundry dry faster. Milieu Centraal points out that dehumidifiers are not a replacement for ventilation and do not solve the underlying moisture problem. Therefore, use it as a supplement. See how to dry laundry faster with a dehumidifier. Do not place the device in the wet zone of the bathroom, but in an adjacent, dry room, and always follow the manual.
Direct answer: towels smell musty because they remain damp for too long. Hang them out flat, ventilate the bathroom after showering, wash them at the right temperature, and dry them completely before storing them.
Dynter DH251 for drying laundry
Product name: Dynter AirPure DH251 dehumidifier
Capacity: up to 900 ml per day
Water tank: 3800 ml
Suitable for: rooms up to 55 m²
Power: 80 W
Extra features: timer from 1 to 24 hours, night mode, and safety sensor for a full tank
| Cause | Solution |
|---|---|
| Towel is hung folded | Spread out on a drying rack or multiple hooks |
| Bathroom remains damp | Open a window or turn on the extractor fan, use a squeegee |
| Too much detergent or fabric softener | Use a smaller dose, wash according to the label |
| Towel remains wet in the washing machine | Hang up or dry immediately |
How to keep the bathroom drier?
A dry bathroom is the best measure against musty towels. Also read our tips in how to quickly remove moisture from the bathroom.
View the Dynter DH251 dehumidifier or discover the dehumidifier collection.
Frequently asked questions
Why do clean towels still smell musty?
Usually they do not dry quickly enough or remain damp for too long. Detergent residues can also retain moisture.
How often should I wash towels?
This varies depending on use. A towel that smells musty or does not dry properly is a sign to wash it sooner.
Can I hang towels in the bathroom?
Yes, provided the bathroom is well ventilated and the towel can dry out flat.
Does a dehumidifier help against musty towels?
It can help laundry dry faster in an enclosed room, but ventilation is still necessary.