The Best Way to Clean Kitchen Towels (Without Ruining Them)

Kitchen towels work hard wiping spills, drying dishes, and handling messes. But how often do we think about how clean they really are? These everyday essentials can easily collect bacteria, grease, and stubborn stains if not washed properly. That's why knowing how to clean and disinfect kitchen towels is so important.

With the best way to clean kitchen towels, you keep them fresh, hygienic, and long-lasting. From removing stains to cleaning and disinfecting dish towels effectively, small changes can make a big difference.

In this blog, we'll show you how to wash towels for hygiene without damaging the fabric so your kitchen stays as clean as it looks.

Let's get started!

Kitchen towels can hold more bacteria than you'd expect. According to a study published in the Journal of Food Protection, nearly 89% of kitchen towels showed bacterial growth, including E. coli, especially when used multiple times a day without washing.

Cleaning your kitchen towels properly is not just about appearance; it's about hygiene and safety. Let's look at the best way to clean kitchen towels without compromising the fabric or colour.

1. Sort Before You Wash

Always wash kitchen towels separately from other clothes. They carry food residues, oil, and bacteria, which can transfer to your garments.

Sort your towels into:

• Heavily stained (e.g. curry spills, grease)
• Lightly soiled (used for drying clean dishes)

This helps you decide whether they need pre-treatment or a quick refresh.

2. Pre-Treat Tough Stains with Vanish Oxi Action Liquid

Wondering how to remove stains from kitchen towels? The key lies in proper pre-treatment. Vanish Oxi Action Liquid works effectively on food stains like tomato sauce or tea.

Here's how to pre-treat:

• Pour Vanish Oxi Action Liquid directly onto the stain.
• Use a soft laundry brush to gently work the product in.
• Let it sit for 10 minutes before washing.

This process lifts the stain without harming the fabric or fading the colour, thanks to Vanish's oxygen-based formula.

3. Soak for Deep Cleaning (If Needed)

If your towels have a musty smell or are heavily stained, soaking them can help.

• Add a cup of Vanish Oxi Action Liquid to 5 litres of lukewarm water.
• Soak the towels for 1 hour max.
• Then wash as usual.

Remember: Pre-treatment and soaking are separate methods. You can choose either, depending on the stain type.

4. Wash at the Right Temperature

Although washing towels in hot water may seem like a good idea, it can lead to shrinkage and wear. Use warm or cold water, and always follow the fabric care label.

For the best way to clean kitchen towels in the machine:

• Use your regular detergent.
• Add 1 cup of Vanish Oxi Action Liquid to the detergent drawer.
• Select a normal cycle (preferably with a longer rinse).

This boosts stain removal, sanitises the towels, and helps maintain fabric brightness.

Even when using the right products, there are a few things to steer clear of:

• Do not mix Vanish with chlorine bleach or other chemicals.
• Never scrub stains with your bare hands; always use a soft brush.
• Avoid drying in direct sunlight for too long, as it can fade the colours.

Unlike harsh bleach-based cleaners, Vanish is safe on colours and white fabrics. It's made of oxygen-based bleaching agents, not chlorine, which means:

• It's gentler on your towels.
• Helps retain colour vibrancy.
• Brightens whites without yellowing.

Vanish doesn't just remove stains. It also enhances the overall freshness and lifespan of your towels, an important part of how to wash towels for hygiene.

Keeping your kitchen towels clean isn't just about looks; it's about maintaining a hygienic kitchen. Regular washing, proper sorting, and using the right stain remover like Vanish Oxi Action Liquid can go a long way. It lifts tough stains, removes odours, and keeps towels looking brighter for longer.

By taking a few simple steps, you can keep bacteria at bay and help your towels last longer. Consistent habits, such as washing every few days and steering clear of harsh chemicals, can go a long way in maintaining both hygiene and fabric quality.

With the right care, your kitchen towels will stay fresh, clean, and ready to use no matter how busy your kitchen gets.

Source:

https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.thetakeout.com/1854459/dirty-kitchen-towel/&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1753166944774034&usg=AOvVaw1dRYCrwY1Ut5ZIW7Sum-fc