The Times of India

The science of the sniff test: Why your towels stay musty and how to break the cycle

Unpleasant towel odours stem from bacteria surviving washes and spreading between items, with specific species like Moraxella osloensis identified as culprits. Overusing detergent also leaves residues, creating a breeding ground for microbes and potentially irritating skin. To combat this, use antibacterial detergents, clean your machine regularly, and hang towels to dry after each use to ensure lasting freshness.