Buying the right bath towels involves more than picking your favorite color. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for when shopping for towels that are soft, absorbent, and long-lasting.
1. Absorbency
- Thicker and Heavier Towels: Absorb more water but take longer to dry.
- Premium Cotton:
- Egyptian and Pima cotton towels are highly absorbent and ideal for superior water absorption.
- Rayon Towels: Absorb even more water than cotton but may lack the durability of pure cotton.
2. Softness
- Initial Feel: Towels often feel softer in stores due to a fabric-softening finish, but this wears off after washing.
- Soft Material Choices:
- Towels made with rayon (including bamboo-derived rayon) are known for their softness.
- Egyptian and Pima cotton towels offer smooth and silky yarn for a plush feel.
- Fabric Softener Warning: Avoid liquid fabric softeners as they reduce absorbency and increase flammability. Opt for dryer sheets instead.
3. Durability
- Two-Ply Towels: More durable than one-ply towels.
- Material Strength:
- Cotton is stronger and longer-lasting than rayon.
- Cotton/polyester blends are commonly used in hotels for durability but may be less absorbent.
4. Towel Takeaways
- Best Choice: Two-ply towels made with Pima or Egyptian cotton are ideal for longevity and absorbency.
- Budget-Friendly Tip: Look for premium cotton towels on sale or use coupons.
- Special Considerations:
- If you use acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide, consider inexpensive towels or those labeled bleach-resistant.
5. Laundry Tips for Towels
- Washing Frequency: Towels collect dirt and oils, so wash them frequently with a high-quality detergent.
- Best Detergents:
- Top Recommendations (prices per load):
- Green Works (12¢)
- Persil ProClean Power-Liquid (20¢)
- Tide HE Plus Bleach Alternative (19¢)
- Tide Plus Ultra Stain Release (25¢)
- Sorting: Wash dark towels separately to prevent bleeding.
- Bright Whites:
- Use detergents with bleaching agents like Tide HE Plus Bleach Alternative.
- Add mild oxidizers like OxiClean to keep white towels bright.
Pro Tip:
Save an unwashed washcloth with the receipt as proof of purchase. If your towels fade or don’t meet expectations, this can help with returns.
By following these tips, you can enjoy soft, durable, and absorbent towels for years to come.
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