Temperature switch in washing machines will keep towels 'luxuriously soft'

NewsTemperature switch in washing machines will keep towels 'luxuriously soft'We've all been there, buying lovely, soft, fluffy towels only for them to turn hard and crispy after just a few

washeshuddersfieldexaminerBookmarkShareCommentsNewsByTom KershawContent EditorClaire Schofield13:59, 25 FEB 2025BookmarkTowels turn hard from a build-up of soap residue and over-drying.

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One of life's major frustrations is purchasing plush, soft towels only for them to become rough and stiff after a few washes. Many assume that increasing the amount of fabric

conditioner or washing powder can resolve the issue, but this can actually exacerbate the loss of softness as excess residue fails to rinse away.

According to the Secret Linen Store, the primary cause of towel hardness is the accumulation of soap residue and over-drying. Using excessive harsh detergent strips towels of their natural

softness, leaving behind a residue that clings to the towel even after washing. It is crucial to adhere to the recommended detergent amount, reports the Express.

The company explains: "High-quality bath towels should feel thick and indulgent; however, because of this, the detergent can be harder to remove during rinse cycles than other materials.

This will accumulate over time and may cause your towels to feel hard and stiff.

"Ensuring you're using a gentle detergent is also important, as towels are made from natural fibres like cotton. Harsh detergents can cause permanent damage to these fibres."

To combat the scratchy texture, the firm recommends a simple temperature adjustment in your washing machine. Towels are best washed at a slightly cooler temperature, as excessively hot water

can strip the natural fibres of their softness.

However, the water still needs to be warm enough to dissolve the washing powder effectively. The Secret Linen Store advises that to maintain the softness of towels, they should be washed at

a temperature ranging from 30 to 40 degrees.

The company points out: "Reports show that freshly washed towels can have around 190,000 bacteria counts. After just one day of use, that number jumps to 17 million, and after a week, it can

reach as high as 94 million."

They add: "With so many germs, washing your towels at high temperatures is tempting. But while it might seem like the best way to get rid of the bacteria, it won't keep your towels soft

and fluffy."

The firm cautions that, similar to harsh detergents, hot water can diminish the natural fibres' softness, making them rougher and less absorbent. To ensure towels remain fresh and soft,

the recommendation is to wash them at cooler temperatures, specifically between 30 and 40 degrees.

After laundering, it's beneficial to shake the towels well before hanging them up to dry, which helps to loosen the fibres and enhance airflow. Once completely dry, another shake will

help avoid any stiffness and keep them fluffy.

Moreover, it's suggested to avoid piling towels under heavy weights when storing them, as this can compress the fibres. For optimal softness and freshness, towels should be stored

loosely with space for air to circulate around them.

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