Laundry can be an exhausting chore, which is why we're always looking for ways to speed up our routine —like by cramming everything into just one or two loads. Modern washers are designed to handle larger capacities, making it all too easy to toss in every last item—towels included—and call it a day. But that shortcut can actually backfire. We consulted several laundry experts and they all agree: Towels should be washed separately. Here's why.

Towels might seem pretty harmless—after all, they're just soft and fluffy pieces of fabric—but there are several reasons why washing them with your other laundry can be a bad idea. The number one reason? They can be quite a bit dirtier than other items you regularly wash.

"Towels can harbor bacteria more than other laundry because they constantly

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