How to soften towels at home without spending a fortune
What's the story
Softening towels at home can be an inexpensive way to ensure they remain plush and absorbent. With some simple methods, you can keep your towels feeling fresh without spending a fortune on fabric softeners or expensive laundry products. Here are five practical tips to help you achieve soft towels using common household items and techniques. These methods are easy to follow and cost-effective, making them ideal for anyone looking to maintain the softness of their towels without breaking the bank.
Tip 1
Use vinegar in the rinse cycle
Vinegar is a natural fabric softener that can help break down detergent residue on your towels. Add one cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle of your washing machine. This will help remove any buildup that makes towels feel stiff. The vinegar smell will dissipate during the wash, leaving no odor behind but softening the fibers of the fabric.
Tip 2
Baking soda boost
Baking soda is another household item that can help in softening towels. Add half a cup of baking soda to your regular laundry detergent while washing. Baking soda helps regulate pH levels in water, which can further help in breaking down detergent residues. This trick not only softens but also brightens your colored towels.
Tip 3
Avoid fabric softeners
While fabric softeners may seem like an obvious choice for softening, they can actually leave a waxy residue on towel fibers over time. This residue makes them less absorbent and rough to touch. Instead, try skipping fabric softeners altogether when washing your towels and rely on natural alternatives like vinegar or baking soda instead.
Tip 4
Dry with tennis balls
Using tennis balls in the dryer with your wet towels can help fluff them up as they tumble around in the dryer drum. The balls create space between the items, allowing hot air to circulate more freely. This results in softer, fluffier towels without any additional cost.
Tip 5
Wash with hot water regularly
Washing towels regularly in hot water helps remove oils and dirt that accumulate over time, making them feel rougher against skin surfaces. Hot water also aids in dissolving detergents more effectively than cold or warm water temperatures do, ensuring cleaner, softer results after every wash cycle completion.