Why it’s a problem: Fabric softener actually prevents towels from absorbing water and can leave a waxy buildup that can scratch and damage your skin.

Why it’s a problem: Charles Gerba, a microbiologist at the University of Arizona, found in a recent study that nearly 90% of face towels were contaminated with coliform bacteria and about 14% carried E.coli after left to dry in the bathroom. Incase you didn’t know, E.coli is literally a better name for poop particles.

Why it’s a problem: You've washed your towels and they smell pretty good as they come out of the dryer. But the minute they get damp, the funky odor returns. This is because the towels were not really clean. The main causes of the odor is that your washer is not clean and body soil and bacteria are redepositing on the terrycloth during the rinse cycle.

Why it’s a problem: When towels are used by more than one person, cross-contamination of the skin can occur.

Why it’s a problem: People who have extremely dry or sensitive skin, those who are acne prone, and people with skin conditions like eczema are the most at risk for a dirty towel causing breakouts since their skin barrier isn’t functioning as well as it should be and this means that you could spread bacteria or fungus to your face, which blocks pores and makes flare-ups even worse.