Never use bleach on towels unless they’re white. It weakens fibers and yellows them over time. Also, skip the fabric softener sheets in the dryer—they leave a waxy film. Oh, and don’t overload the washing machine; towels need room to dance. A cramped towel is a sad towel.
The Golden Rule: Less is More
Use less detergent than you think. Modern machines are efficient, and too much soap creates buildup. A single tablespoon of liquid detergent is often plenty for a load. Your towels want to breathe, not swim in suds. You’re the boss, not the detergent bot.