One of the most frustrating mysteries for many households is washing towels only to discover they still smell musty. According to experts, the issue does not solely lie with how often they are washed but how they are washed and dried. Many people assume that a strong detergent and hot wash will keep their towels fresh.

But, according to a bathroom and kitchen expert at , using too much can be one of the main reasons towels develop a lingering smell. "When excess detergent isn't fully rinsed out, it builds up within the towel fibres, trapping moisture and encouraging mildew growth," a spokesperson explains. The expert says that moisture is the key issue in tackling the smell.

Towels are designed to absorb water, but when they're not dried thoroughly after washing - or between uses - they become the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mould.

As a result, this can cause a damp, musty odour that's hard to remove, even with repeated washing.

Even if your towels have been washed and look clean, there are certain signs that they're harbouring hidden mould. These include: a persistent sour or damp smell, feeling heavy or stiff after drying and a slimy or sticky residue when wet.

One key tip to fresh-smelling towels is to use less detergent. Most modern detergents are concentrated, and only a small amount is needed. Overloading with soap causes build-up and makes rinsing less effective.

Avoiding fabric softeners is also crucial, as these coat the fibres and reduce absorbency, trapping more moisture.

To tackle the smell, the expert advises that adding a rinse with white vinegar (no detergent) can help break down residue and kill odour-causing bacteria.

Once the towels are washed, it's important to dry them fully. Whether using a dryer or air-drying, make sure towels are completely rid of water before folding or storing them, as damp fibres encourage mildew.

Finally, hang towels properly between uses, avoiding leaving them bunched up or hung over a single hook.