How many towels do you need? Experts reveal the formula

A stack of white bath towels on a bed — (Image credit: Getty Images)

Towels can be tricky to store. We need so many different types, from washcloths to hand towels, to bath sheets, with each of them adding significant bulk to our linen closet shelves. This begs the question, how many towels do you need?

Having too few towels makes laundry and bathing a struggle, but having too many makes organizing bathroom storage a logistical nightmare. The secret is calculating two per person when it comes to bath towels and hand towels, though a few factors can impact.

How many towels do you need?

Generally speaking, the number of towels you need depends on the size of your household, your lifestyle, and your laundry and bathing routines. Using your towels correctly and knowing how often to wash towels makes a big difference.

Barbara Brock, professional home organizer and owner of Barbara Brock Inc. suggests, ‘One person needs on average two bath towels and two hand towels. One is to be used, and the other is to be used as a backup. Washcloths are optional as there are many different options today for cleaning. However, the less you have, the more you have to do laundry.

‘Giving a person too many bath towels tends to also wreak havoc with storing. Too many bath towels also tend to land on the floor.’

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20 Pack Vacuum Storage Bags

When you have a few too many towels but they are all in good condition, consider putting some of them into vacuum storage. This will keep them in good condition until the towels you are using start to wear out, or you need them for guests.

Parima Ijaz, textile expert and owner of Pure Parima agrees, ‘The general rule of thumb is that each person in the house has at least two or three bath towels, washcloths, and hand towels. This way, when the towels are not being used, they can be washed and another fresh set is available at all times.

‘All used towels should be washed weekly at a minimum for hygienic results,’ Parima continues. ‘When it comes to towel storage ideas, keep them in a cool, dry place to avoid mold and moisture buildup which can damage the fibers and decrease their longevity. When buying towels, investing in high-quality towels made of Egyptian cotton ensures a longer lifespan and higher durability.’

Make sure to avoid putting towels away whilst they're still damp. It's one of the key things people with nice smelling closets never do.

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Superior Egyptian Cotton 6-Piece Absorbent Towel Set

Perfect for one person, this towel set includes two bath towels, two hand towels, and two face towels

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Superior Madison Egyptian Cotton Plush 6-Piece Towel Set

If you like your towels to match your bathroom decor, these towel sets offer the greatest color variations to fit into any space

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Superior Egyptian Cotton Highly Absorbent 12-piece

To stock bathrooms for a couple, this set includes four bath towels, four hand towels, and four washcloths

Parima Ijaz adds, however, ‘It doesn’t hurt to have a few extra sets in storage for guests or unexpected replacements. Just keep in mind that each person should have enough of each to get through each week.’ These can be stored in your guest bedroom to ease the burden when organizing a linen closet.

If your towels feel scratchy and look a little worse for wear, consider washing towels with vinegar to make towels soft again before replacing them. While you should generally replace towels every three to five years, many household towels have more life in them when cared for properly. This not only saves you money but reduces waste as well.

Make sure to donate your old towels to animal shelters or use them for household cleaning so that they do not build up in your storage.

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Chiana is Homes & Gardens’ kitchen appliances editor. With a lifelong passion for cooking and baking, she grew up experimenting in the kitchen every weekend with her baking-extraordinaire Mom, and has developed a great understanding of how tools and appliances can make or break your ideal relaxing kitchen routine.