How to Wash Towels and Keep Them Soft
Simple habits that keep cotton towels soft, fluffy and absorbent for longer.
How to wash towels: The short answer
Wash towels at the temperature on the care label (usually 40 °C for everyday use), do not overload the machine, use the recommended amount of detergent and dry them fully. Go easy on fabric softener, which can coat the fibres and make towels less absorbent.
Step by step
- Wash before first use. This removes finishing residue and helps towels absorb water.
- Sort by colour. Wash new, strong colours separately for the first few washes.
- Do not overload. Towels need room to move so they rinse properly.
- Use the right amount of detergent. Too much leaves residue that makes towels feel stiff.
- Go easy on fabric softener. It can reduce absorbency. A small splash of white vinegar in the rinse is a popular alternative.
- Dry fully. Shake each towel out, then hang it or tumble dry on a medium heat. Do not leave damp towels in a heap.
How often to wash
As a rule of thumb, wash a bath towel every three to four uses, and sooner if it is left damp in a pile. Hang towels open between uses so they dry quickly.
How to wash towels: Our towels
Our towels are 100% combed cotton at 600 GSM. Browse all towels or read our guide on how many towels you need.
Frequently asked questions
What temperature should I wash towels at?
Follow the care label. 40 °C is common for everyday cotton towels. Wash at a higher temperature only if the label allows it.
How to wash towels: Why do my towels feel stiff?
Usually too much detergent or fabric softener, an overloaded machine or drying on a very high heat. Reducing detergent and drying fully usually helps.
How often should I wash my bath towel?
As a rule of thumb, every three to four uses.
More guides
Questions about how to wash towels? Our team will gladly help.