YOU may have been taught certain rules about cleaning towels but one expert says there are scenarios in which you should clean them more often.

As advances have been made with detergents, the rules around how and how often, to wash towels have changed.

When it comes to the frequency with which towels should be washed, the use of the towel is the determining factor.

For example, microfiber towels used for cleaning should be washed separately from all other clothing and towels due to contamination risks and concerns.

These towels should be washed after every use.

Bath towels differ in that they can generally be used three to five times before needing to be washed.

Washcloths used in the shower should be washed after being used three times at most.

These, along with bath towels, should always be hung dry between uses.

Hand towels should be changed out two to three times per week, meaning you should have at least two or three sets available to swap out.

Kitchen towels should be swapped out for clean ones every few days.

Again, it's important to have multiple sets on hand for when laundry needs to be done.

Those towels used to clean up spills or other messes should be washed after every use.

Rules for how to wash towels generally remain the same across the board.

Brian Sansoni, the senior vice president of communications for the American Cleaning Institute, claims that all towels should be washed in cold water.

If you're currently washing your towels in hot water, this can actually save you money, as switching your washing machine to the cold water setting can reduce your energy bill.

Jessica Zinna, a senior scientist at Procter & Gamble, estimated that this switch can save homeowners about $150 per year, according to CNN.

It's also said that cold water will help preserve towels better over time.

In addition, Sansoni says less is more when it comes to detergent.

Only using the specified amount is important, as too much detergent can lead to sudsy towels and result in skin irritation.

Using too much detergent can also leave towels smelling moldy or musty, Sansoni says.

Be sure not to use fabric softener, as Sansoni says it can make towels less absorbent.

When it comes to drying towels, Sansoni stresses to avoid overdrying.

Hanging towels inside to dry isn't always the best option either.

But hanging your towels outside to dry in the sun is a great choice.

If using a washing machine, Sansoni recommends choosing the automatic cycle and using a moisture sensor if possible.

Microfiber towels should be air-dried or machine-dried on low.

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