Towels play an essential role in our everyday lives. We use them after bathing or swimming to dry our bodies, after washing our hands, and for many other purposes around the home. Soft, fluffy towels that gently dry and pamper our skin are a true luxury. However, over time and repeated washings, the fibers in towels become worn and frayed. This causes them to feel scratchy, rough and uncomfortable against our bare skin. Fortunately, there are many methods and tricks to soften up towels and restore their original softness.
Why Towels Lose Their Softness
Before learning how to soften towels, it’s helpful to understand what causes them to become stiff and scratchy in the first place. Here are some of the most common reasons towels lose their softness:
- Fiber damage – The cotton or other fibers that make up the towel can become damaged over time, especially if subjected to harsh detergents, very hot water, and aggressive washing machines. This damages the fibers and causes them to stiffen.
- Buildup of residue – Shampoos, conditioners, soaps and even hard water minerals can leave behind residue that coats the fibers and diminishes softness.
- Over-drying – Excessive heat when machine drying can dry out and degrade the fibers, leaving towels brittle and rough.
- Bleach and other chemicals – Bleach and other harsh cleaning agents break down cotton and other fibers, damaging the integrity of the material.
- Insufficient rinsing – Leftover traces of detergent can make towels stiff if not properly rinsed out.
With this knowledge, we can now explore methods to reverse this damage and make towels soft again.
10 Ways to Soften Towels
Here are 10 simple yet effective ways to soften up rough, scratchy towels and restore their lush softness:
1. Add Vinegar to the Wash
White vinegar is mildly acidic, which helps break down residue that causes stiffening. Add 1/2 to 1 cup of white vinegar to the washing machine rinse cycle when laundering towels. The vinegar will naturally soften fibers and help towels feel new again.
2. Use Fabric Softener
Liquid fabric softener coats the fibers in towels to make them feel softer and fluffier. Be sure to use an extra rinse cycle to remove any excess. Avoid using too much, as it may reduce the towel’s absorbency over time.
3. Try Dryer Balls
Wool or rubber dryer balls help separate towels in the dryer so air circulates better. This minimizes stiffness. Dryer balls also help reduce static and cut down on drying time.
4. Add Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural cleaning and softening agent. Add 1/2 cup per wash load and launder as usual. The baking soda will lift residue from fibers and leave towels softer.
5. Use Liquid Softener Salt
Specialty products like Downy Ultra Softener + Static Remover liquid salt soften fabrics during the rinse cycle. Simply add to the dispenser per package instructions.
6. Soak in Baking Soda and Water
For a deeper clean, soak towels overnight in warm water mixed with 1 cup of baking soda. The baking soda will work to naturally soften fibers. Rinse thoroughly.
7. Use Hair Conditioner
Massage a quarter-sized amount of hair conditioner right into wet towels before putting them in the dryer. The conditioner will make towels extra soft and static-free.
8. Dry Towels on Low Heat
High heat can damage fibers and cause extra stiffness. Be sure to dry towels on a low heat setting to preserve softness. Better yet, air dry or line dry when possible.
9. Use Liquid Softener Sheets
Add a Downy liquid softener sheet to the rinse cycle or dryer when laundering towels. These sheets infuse softeners during laundering for noticeably softer towels.
10. Wash with All-Natural Soap
Harsh detergents strip away softening oils naturally found in cotton and other fibers. Use a gentle, plant-based liquid soap instead for soft results without residue.
How Often Should You Wash Towels?
In addition to using softening techniques, it’s wise to launder towels before they become overly dirty or stiff. Follow these guidelines for washing:
- Bath towels – Wash every 3-5 uses or at least once weekly.
- Hand towels – Wash every 2-3 days or more often if visibly soiled.
- Beach towels – Rinse out after each use and launder after every 2-3 uses.
- Kitchen towels – Wash daily or as soon as they become damp or soiled.
Washing towels frequently before soils become heavily embedded will help preserve softness and absorbency. Avoid overload – wash towels in smaller loads whenever possible.
What Temperature Should You Wash and Dry Towels At?
The heat settings used when washing and drying also impact softness. Follow these recommendations:
- Washing – Wash towels in warm or hot water to sanitize, but only if bleach is NOT used. If using bleach, wash in cold water to preserve fibers.
- Drying – Dry towels on medium or low heat. High heat damages fibers over time. Air or line drying is ideal when possible.
Tips for Storing Towels to Maintain Softness
Properly storing towels between uses is also key for keeping them soft and absorbent over time:
- Allow towels to fully dry before folding and putting away to prevent mildew.
- Store in a cool, dry spot away from excessive moisture. Avoid musty basements or attics.
- Fold towels smoothly without sharp creases, which can weaken fibers. Roll them for space efficiency.
- Consider using cedar blocks/balls when storing towels long term. Cedar’s aromatic oils repel moths and other pests.
- Rotate towel stock frequently and don’t use the same ones over and over. Give fibers a rest to preserve quality.
- Wash towels before storing or putting away for an extended period of time. Soiling causes gradual damage.
By caring for towels properly day-to-day and washing them frequently, you can maintain their soft, plush texture for years of enjoyment.
Common Questions About Softening Towels
Having fluffy, soft towels is a wonderful luxury, but achieving that softness can be confusing. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How long does it take for towels to air dry?
Expect towels to air dry thoroughly in 4-6 hours. Folding while still slightly damp can cause mildew. Give them plenty of time to fully dry before use or storage.
Can you put towels in the dryer right after washing?
Yes, it’s fine to put towels in the dryer immediately after washing. However, air drying is ideal to maximize softness. If machine drying, use medium or low heat.
Do towels get softer after multiple washes?
No, towels do not get softer with multiple washes. In fact, they gradually become stiffer and rougher as fibers break down over time. Proper care is needed to maintain softness.
How can you soften old towels?
To soften old towels, soak them overnight in a solution of 2 parts water and 1 part hair conditioner. You can also add 1/2 cup baking soda or white vinegar to the rinse cycle. Dry on low heat.
Why do my towels smell musty after washing?
Musty, mildew smells on towels are typically caused by incomplete drying or improper storage. Always ensure towels fully dry before use or storage. Avoid humid environments.
Should you wash new towels before first use?
Yes, it’s wise to launder new towels prior to first use to remove any chemical residues from manufacturing. Wash in warm water with regular detergent and fabric softener.
Summary of Keeping Towels Soft
In summary, here are the key tips for keeping your towels touchably soft:
- Wash towels frequently using gentle, low-residue detergent and fabric softener
- Include vinegar, baking soda or salt in wash cycles to further soften fibers
- Use hair conditioner or liquid softener sheets for extra softness
- Rinse towels thoroughly to remove all traces of detergent residue
- Avoid over-drying with excess heat – air dry or use low dryer heat
- Fold and store towels properly in between uses
- Wash and fully dry towels before long-term storage
With the proper care, those fluffy bath towels or kitchen towels purchased new will maintain their soft texture for years to come. Simply be diligent about washing, drying, and storing them correctly. Then enjoy their soothing softness against your skin every time you use them!