A clothing expert has warned that unwashed towels and swimwear can harbour dangerous bacteria, fungi and staph infections, posing serious health risks to Brits enjoying summer outings.
Faye Oakenfull, marketing director at Centra, a composable e-commerce platform for global consumer brands, explains that many people are unaware that damp towels create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, with some microorganisms multiplying to millions within just 24 hours of use.
Left unchecked, these microorganisms can trigger skin irritation, rashes and infections that may require treatment, particularly if you have small cuts or grazes. Those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema can also experience more frequent flare-ups when bacteria levels rise.
“Beach and pool bags often contain a cocktail of germs from wet swimwear, sunscreen residue and environmental contaminants that can lead to skin infections, athlete’s foot and even respiratory issues if left unchecked,” she says. “Establishing regular cleaning routines for all beach accessories can help prevent both health issues and premature wear of expensive swimwear.”
Studies show that staph bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus can thrive on damp fabrics, potentially causing folliculitis or more severe infections if they enter the skin through minor abrasions. Fungal growth, including ringworm and yeast, is also common in moist environments, especially in warm weather.
Oakenfull warns that leaving wet swimwear in a bag for hours allows bacteria to multiply. She advises rinsing swimsuits in cold water straight after swimming to remove chlorine, salt and sunscreen residue, which can damage the fabric and trap bacteria. Skipping this step increases the risk of itching, redness or fungal infections, particularly during hot days when skin is more prone to sweating.
Beach towels should be laundered after every two to three uses, or sooner if visibly soiled or left damp for long periods. “Beach towels are used in the dirtiest of environments, and they pick up everything from sand and dirt to body oils and bacteria. So, it’s best not to wait too long in between washes,” Oakenfull says. Many people only give swimsuits a quick rinse and wear them multiple times, but this allows germs to linger. She recommends washing towels at 60°C with laundry disinfectant and using gentle cycles for swimwear, avoiding fabric softener which damages elastic fibres. Antimicrobial detergents designed for cold water cycles work best for delicate items.
Beach bags also need regular cleaning. Oakenfull suggests washing canvas or cotton bags weekly during heavy use, either by machine or by hand with warm soapy water. For plastic or waterproof bags, antibacterial wipes or a water and vinegar solution are effective. “If a beach bag is never cleaned, any residual dampness inside can allow mould and bacteria to thrive, contaminating freshly washed towels and swimwear as soon as they’re packed. A musty smell or dark spots inside the lining are signs it’s already happening,” she says.
Proper drying is key to preventing bacterial growth. “Bacteria and fungi thrive in damp environments, so complete drying prevents most problems before they start,” Oakenfull explains. Sunlight is ideal as UV light kills certain bacteria. High heat settings work for towels in a tumble dryer, but swimwear lasts longer when air-dried.
Sharing towels can spread infections such as athlete’s foot and ringworm. If sharing is unavoidable, Oakenfull advises washing them in hot water as soon as possible. “Some of these infections can develop within a matter of days, so watch for early warning signs such as redness, unusual rashes or persistent itchiness, and wash shared towels promptly to stop them spreading further,” she adds.
Health experts stress that these hygiene practices are especially important in summer, when increased sweating and exposure to public pools heighten infection risks. Simple habits like prompt rinsing, frequent washing and thorough drying can significantly reduce bacteria-related skin problems, ensuring safer enjoyment of beach and pool activities.