Black stains on towels

fibernie

I'm a bit puzzled by the black stains that appear on my towels regularly. They look like colour has run into the towel from something dark, but I always wash whites seperately so that can't be the case.
They are grey and appear in patches on the towels. Don't smell, and no little black spots, so I think (hope) not mildew.
Any suggestions and advice on how to get rid?
Thanks in advance.

shellsuit

Have you looked at the seal on your machine?

I had the same and found grey sludge in the rubber seal ~ yuk!

celyn90

I would think the machine seal is going. Ours did that too.

You could try cleaning the machine to see if it's just build up.

fibernie

Thank you both. Have checked seal though, and seems very clean. Was really hoping you were both right too!

Savannah02K

Actually pull the seal towards you and look down, you'll prob see loads of sludge there. Try getting the towels out without catching the seal at all and see if that makes a difference.

fibernie

Nope, it's really clean, even when pulled away.
Only the towels as well, surely machine would stain other clothes?
Beginning to think must be mildew of some kind through not being able to properly hang them to dry after shower.
Off to look for space saving towel airer!

ubamother

if not the machine - if you keep them hung over the bathroom radiator (or wherever you keep them) when in use, is there a grey patch on the wall that is hidden by the radiator that they might be rubbing against?

fibernie

They are hung over a hook on the door to dry after showers, and I'm beginning to feel that is the culprit. Either that or may be put in the washing basket slightly damp.
They don't smell though, and it doesn't look like mildew - more like they've been in contact with a darker colour.
Only my towels, not clothes. All very odd.
Have washed one with vanish at hot temp, off to check stain.

fibernie

Stains still there - grey patches, mostly at the narrow end of towel. Should I try borax/white vinegar in with wash?
The washing powder I use is aquados simply (eco brand). Wonder if I should change...