Precautions for cleaning towel fabric

Terry Fabric Washing Precautions: Key Secrets to Maintaining Softness and Absorbency

Terry fabric, with its soft, absorbent, and skin-friendly properties, is widely used in loungewear, bathrobes, baby products, and towels. However, improper washing methods can easily lead to problems such as stiffening, shrinkage, pilling, and even loss of absorbency.

This article will provide a detailed introduction to the correct methods and precautions for washing terry fabric, helping you effectively extend the fabric's lifespan and keep it soft and new.

I. Structure and Characteristics of Terry Fabric

Terry fabric is a knitted or woven fabric with a looped loop structure.

This looped structure gives it excellent absorbency and a soft touch, but it also makes it easy for detergent residue or limescale to accumulate between the fibers.

Therefore, special attention needs to be paid to water temperature, detergent type, and drying method when washing terry fabric.

II. Basic Principles for Washing Terry Fabric

1. Use warm water, avoid high temperatures

It is recommended to use warm water around 30℃ when washing terry fabric.

1. High water temperature can damage the cotton fiber structure, causing the fabric to stiffen or shrink. Especially for stretch terry cloths containing spandex, high temperatures can cause them to lose elasticity.

2. Choose a neutral or mildly alkaline detergent.

Strong alkaline laundry detergents can easily damage the fibers, causing the loops to lose elasticity.

It is recommended to choose a mild, neutral detergent or baby-specific detergent, which can clean while protecting the fabric structure.

3. Do not wash with clothing with zippers or metal parts.

The loops on terry cloths are easily snagged. Washing them with clothing with zippers, buttons, or Velcro can lead to snagging and tangling.

It is best to wash them separately or place them in a laundry bag to prevent friction.

4. Avoid using excessive fabric softener.

Fabric softener forms a chemical film on the surface of terry cloths, making the fabric slippery in the short term, but it hinders the fibers from absorbing water, and long-term use may cause the loops to collapse.

It is recommended to use a small amount only occasionally when necessary, or use white vinegar for natural softening care.

5. Do not bleach.

Chlorine bleach will damage the fiber structure, causing the loops to break and the fabric to yellow.

To remove odors or minor stains, use a mild detergent containing oxygen bleach.

III. Proper Drying Method for Terry Cloth Fabrics

Avoid direct sunlight.

Prolonged exposure to sunlight will make the fibers brittle and stiff, resulting in a rough fabric. It is recommended to air dry naturally in a well-ventilated, shady place.

Gently shake and pat to maintain fluffiness.

Gently shake or pat the terry cloth before drying to help the loops stand up again and prevent clumping.

Low temperature tumble drying for a softer feel.

If using a dryer, select a low temperature or "gentle tumble dry" setting to effectively maintain the fluffiness and softness of the terry cloth.

IV. Tips for Caring for Towels After Washing

Wash them separately regularly to prevent them from absorbing lint from other clothes.

If you notice a decrease in absorbency, soak the towel in warm water with a small amount of white vinegar for 10 minutes, then wash it to restore absorbency.

Avoid frequent use of laundry detergents containing fluorescent agents to prevent the fabric from darkening.

When not in use for extended periods, fold them flat and store them in a dry place to prevent dampness and mold.

V. Washing and Care Tips for Special Types of Towels

Pure Cotton Towels: Highly absorbent but prone to shrinkage; wash on low heat and lay flat to dry.

Bamboo Fiber Towels: Antibacterial and environmentally friendly, but the fibers are brittle; avoid vigorous washing.

Polyester-Cotton Blend Towels: Highly durable; machine wash gently, but avoid high-temperature tumble drying.

High-Elastic Towels: Contains spandex; do not use chlorine bleach or high-temperature ironing.

VI. Common Washing Mistakes

Soaking or scalding in boiling water;

Soaking in detergent for extended periods;

Washing with rough fabrics such as jeans or sweaters;

Using high-temperature tumble dry causes the loops to collapse;

Frequent addition of fabric softener reduces absorbency.

These mistakes will shorten the lifespan of terry cloth fabric, causing it to lose its original softness and comfort.

VII. Conclusion

Terry cloth fabric may seem sturdy, but it is actually quite delicate. Proper washing and care are essential to maintaining its softness, fluffiness, and strong absorbency for a long time.

Whether it's terry cloth loungewear, bathrobes, or other towel products, gentle daily washing and proper air drying are key to extending the fabric's lifespan and maintaining a comfortable experience.