How To Stop Towels From Shedding
Towel shedding is a common issue that can quickly become a nuisance. It occurs when tiny fibers from your towels come loose, leaving behind a trail of lint on your skin, bathroom surfaces, and even in your washing machine. Not only is this shedding annoying, but it can also compromise hygiene and cause issues in your washer and dryer.
Here's how to reduce towel shedding (including a recommendation for a better towel that will see a lot less washer and dryer action than you'd expect).
Why Do Towels Shed?
Towel shedding is a natural process that occurs as the fibers in the fabric loosen over time. When you first purchase a towel, it's common to experience some shedding as the shorter fibers work their way out. However, excessive shedding can be a sign of underlying issues.
The quality of the material plays a fairly large role in how much a towel sheds. Towels made from lower-quality fibers or with loose weaves are more prone to shedding. Additionally, manufacturing processes can impact shedding; for instance, towels that aren't properly finished or those with weak stitching may shed more.
How To Stop Towels From Shedding
Choose High-Quality Towels
The first step in preventing towel shedding is to invest in high-quality towels made from durable materials. Towels crafted from long-staple cotton or other premium fibers are less likely to shed.
(Miracle Made® Towels are designed with superior craftsmanship and NASA-inspired, silver-infused fabrics that help enhance longevity, but we'll touch on that more below!)
Proper Washing Techniques
Washing your towels correctly is crucial to reducing shedding. Always wash new towels before their first use to remove any loose fibers. Use warm water and a mild detergent, avoiding harsh chemicals that can weaken the fibers. This approach helps maintain the towel's integrity and reduces the likelihood of shedding.
Avoid Overloading the Washer
Overloading your washing machine can increase friction between towels, leading to more shedding. To prevent this, wash towels separately or with similar items. This not only reduces friction but also ensures a more thorough clean.
Use a Gentle Cycle
Opting for a gentle cycle can help to reduce wear and tear on your towels. A lower spin speed helps protect the fibers, keeping them intact and minimizing shedding. This simple adjustment can extend the life of your towels and maintain their quality.
Skip Fabric Softeners
While fabric softeners might seem like a good idea, they can actually weaken towel fibers and increase shedding. Instead, try using white vinegar during the rinse cycle to maintain softness without compromising the towel's durability. This natural alternative keeps your towels fluffy and fresh without the added shedding.
Tips To Extend the Life of Your Towels
Switch to Miracle Made® Towels
One of the most effective ways to extend the life of your towels is to simply switch to Miracle Made® Towels. These towels are crafted with silver-infused fabric, which offers remarkable self-cleaning properties that reduce the need for frequent washing, allowing your towels to stay fresh and clean for up to 3x longer than traditional towels. You'll not only save time and energy but also reduce shedding and wear so your towels remain plush and durable for much longer.
Proper Drying Techniques
Drying your towels correctly can help prevent fiber damage for a longer lifespan. Whenever possible, opt for air drying, which is gentle on the fibers and helps maintain their integrity. If you prefer using a dryer, choose a low heat setting to avoid overheating and weakening the fibers. This careful approach to drying keeps your towels soft and reduces the risk of shedding.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your towels in top condition. Trim any loose threads to prevent them from unraveling further, and avoid using harsh chemicals that can degrade the fibers over time.
Conclusion
Towel shedding doesn't have to be an inevitable part of your laundry routine. We've covered the causes and talked about a few effective strategies to combat them and reduce shedding so you can enjoy the full comfort and hygiene that quality towels provide.
With that, remember to choose high-quality towels in the first place, like our towels here at Miracle Made®, which are designed to minimize shedding with their durable, silver-infused fabric.
Proper laundering techniques, along with regular maintenance, will further extend the life of your towels, ensuring they remain soft and fresh.
By following these tips, you can upgrade your bath experience and enjoy the plush, clean feel of your towels every day. We hope these practices help you care for your towels so that they truly stand the test of time!
Sources:
- Development of Extra‐Long Staple Upland Cotton - Crop Science - Wiley Online Library
- Why Fabric Softener Is Bad For Your Laundry and What to Use Instead - Consumer Reports
