You have just received a beautiful parcel of brand new towels and you’re keen to keep them in tip-top condition. Here are some guidelines for how to take the best care of your bathtime buddies.
First of all, give them a run through the washing machine. Although we don’t use any harsh chemicals during our production process, there might be a few remnants of the products used in the factory and we all know that a towel is more absorbent after a wash or two. Make sure to check the label for any special advice, but generally our towels can be washed at 30-40 degrees and either tumbled or line-dried.
Fabric conditioner?
Fabric conditioner is not the best product to use on towels. It tends to coat the fibres with a layer that makes them much less absorbent. If your towels are feeling a bit flat and in need of a refresh then we instead recommend a cupful of white vinegar in the wash (don’t forget the detergent too!). This helps strip off any build-up of minerals and leaves your towels fabulously fluffy.
To tumble or not to tumble? That is the question...
This is a very personal choice. We grew up with towels that had been hung on the washing line outside and actually quite appreciate the feeling of a rough towel on our skin, and they always soften up after a little use. However, if you like a fluffy towel then you may need to pop your freshly washed towels in the tumble dryer for that hotel luxury. We sometimes treat our house guests by giving their towels a half an hour tumble before hanging them out on the line – a good compromise that yields a pretty soft towel.
If you are going to tumble your towels then try reducing the drying time by using some dryer balls (or tennis balls). This will have the added benefit of making your towels lovely and fluffy.
If you’re trying to avoid the tumble dryer then our waffle towels are a great choice. You don’t need to worry about maintaining the fluffy feel that comes with a looped towel and their lighter weight means they dry so much faster.
Whichever way you choose to dry your towels, make sure that they are fully dry before storing them away. Keep neatly folded towels in a dry, well-ventilated place like a laundry cupboard or wardrobe so as to avoid any musty odours or mould.
If you’re trying to avoid the tumble dryer then our waffle towels are a great choice. You don’t need to worry about maintaining the fluffy feel that comes with a looped towel and their lighter weight means they dry so much faster.
Whichever way you choose to dry your towels, make sure that they are fully dry before storing them away. Keep neatly folded towels in a dry, well-ventilated place like a laundry cupboard or wardrobe so as to avoid any musty odours or mould.
Snags and pulls
It happens. It’s easy to do. You catch your ring or a broken nail on your beautiful new bath towel and boom... there’s an unsightly pull in the fabric. But don’t worry, this is not an irreparable mistake.
If your towel is from our Luxury or Super Hero range, the fabric is woven into many small loops and it is these loops that can ‘catch’ on a sharp object. Mind not to pull the loose thread any further out; instead, you can simply snip the excess thread off at the level of the pile without damaging the towel at all.
Waffle towels are less likely to snag, but if they do then this technique won’t work as if you cut the thread it may cause a hole in the fabric. You are best to try to weave the loose end back into the fabric with a needle and perhaps a couple of stitches.
When to replace?
Despite proper care, towels will eventually wear out and need replacing. When you notice fraying edges, thinning fabric or holes, or reduced absorbency it might be time for some towel shopping. If you need help choosing some new towels then why not head over to our towel buying guide to find out everything you need to know about these bathroom essentials.
