How to Wash Hotel Towels – Commercial Laundry Guide for 2026

Hotels wash towels more frequently than any other linen item, so using the correct commercial laundry process is essential for keeping towels soft, bright and long‑lasting. In this guide, we explain how to wash hotel towels properly, including the best temperatures, detergents, whitening methods and drying practices for 500GSM, 600GSM and 650GSM towels.

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https://www.softtouchlinens.co.uk/product-category/towels

Why Hotel Towels Need a Different Washing Method

Hotel towels go through heavy daily use and frequent washing cycles. Unlike domestic towels, hospitality towels must withstand:

• High‑temperature washing
• Strong detergents
• Continuous drying cycles
• Fast turnaround times
• Guest expectations for softness and whiteness

Using the correct washing method helps hotels maintain towel quality while reducing replacement costs.

1. Wash Hotel Towels at the Right Temperature

Temperature is one of the most important factors in commercial laundry.

Recommended Temperatures

• 60°C – ideal for most hotel towels
• 40°C – suitable for lightly soiled towels
• 70–90°C – only for deep disinfection cycles

Washing at 60°C provides the best balance of hygiene, fibre protection and colour retention.

2. Use the Correct Detergent for Hotel Towels

Hotels should use a professional, non‑bio detergent designed for commercial laundry.

Why non‑bio is best

• Protects cotton fibres
• Reduces greying
• Prevents harsh chemical damage
• Keeps towels soft over time

Avoid heavily scented detergents, as they can leave residue and reduce absorbency.

3. Add Whitening Agents Carefully

Whitening is essential for hotel presentation, but must be done correctly.

Safe whitening methods

• Oxygen‑based brighteners
• Low‑dose commercial whitening powder
• Occasional use of stain‑removal boosters

Avoid

• Regular chlorine bleach
• Over‑bleaching
• Cheap whitening liquids

Bleach weakens cotton fibres and causes towels to thin, fray and lose softness.

4. Do Not Overload the Washing Machine

Overloading is one of the most common mistakes in hotel laundry.

Why it matters

• Towels cannot rinse properly
• Detergent residue builds up
• Towels become stiff
• Drying time increases
• GSM towels lose softness

Always leave enough space for towels to move freely.

5. Rinse Towels Thoroughly

A proper rinse cycle removes detergent, brighteners and softener residue.

Signs towels are not rinsed properly

• Stiff feel
• Grey appearance
• Reduced absorbency
• Chemical smell

Hotels should use extra rinse cycles for 600GSM and 650GSM towels because they hold more water.

6. Dry Hotel Towels Correctly

Drying affects softness more than washing.

Best drying practices

• Use medium heat
• Avoid over‑drying
• Shake towels before drying
• Remove towels while slightly damp

Over‑drying damages fibres and makes towels feel rough.

7. Should Hotels Use Fabric Softener?

Hotels should avoid fabric softener on towels.

Why

• Reduces absorbency
• Leaves waxy residue
• Causes greying
• Shortens towel lifespan

If softness is needed, use commercial towel conditioners, not domestic softeners.

8. How Often Should Hotels Replace Towels?

Replacement depends on GSM and usage:

• 500GSM – 12–18 months
• 600GSM – 18–24 months
• 650GSM – 24–36 months

Proper washing extends towel life significantly.

Hotels often search for how to wash hotel towels correctly to keep them soft and bright.

Why Hotels Choose Soft Touch Linens

Hotels across NI & UK trust our towels because we offer:

• Consistent GSM quality
• Hospitality‑grade durability
• Softness that lasts through commercial washing
• Fast delivery
• Competitive pricing
• Reliable stock levels

Our towels are designed specifically for hotel use, ensuring long‑lasting performance and guest satisfaction.