Bath towels require regular care to remain soft and absorbent. Over time, residues from skin oils, detergent and fabric softener can build up between the fibers, creating a film that reduces water absorption and leaves the fabric stiff.
The main recommendation is to avoid using more product than necessary. The Ypê Explica guide suggests using about one-third of the usual amount of detergent or fabric softener recommended for other clothes, followed by a thorough rinse. Excess fabric softener can waterproof the fibers instead of making them softer.
Towels should generally be washed once a week or after three uses, provided they dry completely between uses. They should not be shared because they come into contact with intimate areas of the body. If someone is ill, particularly with vomiting or diarrhea, daily washing is recommended when possible.
When using a washing machine, wash towels separately from other clothes and keep white and colored pieces apart. Choose a complete normal cycle with cold water, check that the machine is clean and avoid excessive detergent. Transparent alcohol vinegar can also be used in the rinse, with specialized guides suggesting one to two cups per wash.
For hand washing, soak the towel for 40 minutes in cold or lukewarm water with half a capful of liquid detergent. If the fabric is stiff, 60 grams of baking soda can be added. Scrub the towel, rinse it in cold water until all the detergent is removed, then soak it for 10 minutes in water with half a cup of vinegar. Rinse again, wring it out and hang it in the shade.
High temperatures should generally be avoided because hot water can damage fibers and fade colored towels. A hot rinse may be used before normal washing to sterilize pieces contaminated with fungi or bacteria, but the final rinse should be cold.
Drying in a ventilated, shaded place helps preserve softness. Sunlight can leave the fibers wrinkled and rough. Spinning the towel in the washing machine or wringing it well can speed up drying, while a tumble dryer is also described as an option that usually leaves towels softer. Ironing is not recommended: steam can keep the fabric damp, while a dry iron may damage the fibers.
To restore towels that have already become stiff, the guide recommends adding 60 grams of baking soda directly to the washing-machine drum for each set of face and bath towels. Use the normal amount of detergent, replace fabric softener with transparent alcohol vinegar, wash normally and dry in the shade. Once dry, fold and store the towels without ironing.
New towels should also be washed before their first use. This removes manufacturing residue and helps activate the fibers, improving absorbency from the beginning.
Sources: CNN Brasil.