How to Wash Bamboo Towels the Right Way

The Ultimate Guide to Washing Bamboo Towels

Bamboo towels offer more than a luxurious feel—they're naturally antimicrobial, hypoallergenic, and more sustainable than traditional cotton towels. Thanks to their ability to repel bacteria, dust mites, and allergens, they stay fresher longer and require less frequent washing.

But when it is time for a refresh, knowing how to properly launder bamboo towels can make all the difference. Here’s everything you need to know to keep yours feeling soft, looking fresh, and lasting for years.

How to Wash Bamboo Towels

Before anything else, always check the care label. Harsh chemicals and high heat can damage bamboo fibres, so a gentle approach goes a long way.

Here’s your go-to washing method:

Wash before first use: New towels can carry dust or residues from production. A quick wash helps remove these—especially important for allergy sufferers.
Use cool water: Hot water can shrink or damage bamboo fibres. Set your machine to a gentle or delicate cycle.
Opt for mild detergent: Choose an eco-friendly detergent without bleach or harsh additives.
Skip the fabric softener: Bamboo is naturally soft. Traditional fabric softeners coat the fibres and reduce absorbency. For an eco-friendly alternative, add:
1 cup of white vinegar or
½ cup of baking soda during the rinse cycle. This helps soften towels, prevent fading, and break down any detergent residue.

Pro tip: Don’t overcrowd your washer. Too many towels at once create excess friction, which can break down the fibres. Give them room to breathe for the best results.

How to Dry Bamboo Towels

Air drying your bamboo towel is always best. It’s gentle on the fibres, eco-conscious, and helps maintain softness and absorbency.

Use a clothesline or indoor drying rack, ideally in a shaded area.
Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause colours to fade over time.
If drying outside, bring towels in as soon as they’re dry to protect the fabric.

Need to tumble dry?

Set your dryer to low heat and remove the towels promptly once dry to avoid stiffness or shrinkage.

Pro tip: Skip the iron. Intense heat can roughen bamboo fibres. If wrinkles are bothering you, toss in a damp towel with your bamboo towels in the dryer for a few minutes on low heat to gently relax creases.

How to Store Bamboo Towels

Once dry, store your towels in a cool, dry linen closet. While it’s tempting to keep them within arm’s reach in the bathroom, the humidity can encourage mildew, leading to odours and discolouration.

In a Nutshell

To keep your bamboo towels performing like new:

Wash in cool water with a gentle cycle and mild detergent.
Avoid bleach and fabric softeners.
Air dry when possible, or tumble dry on low.
Store in a dry space, away from bathroom humidity

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FAQs

Can I wash towels with clothes?

It’s best to wash towels separately. Clothes and towels have different textures and care needs, and washing them together can lead to friction, pilling, and less effective cleaning.

How often should I wash my towels?

Aim to wash every 3–5 uses. Always ensure they’re fully dry before storing to prevent mildew.

What’s the best setting for washing towels?

For bamboo: use a gentle cycle with cold water. For cotton: a moderate cycle works best.

How do I keep my towels soft and fluffy?

Avoid fabric softeners. Instead, use vinegar or baking soda during the rinse cycle. They naturally soften towels while maintaining absorbency. Rinse again afterwards to remove any residue.