One little-known item that turns old towels 'soft and fluffy' again
Towels can become hard after washing them for several reasons - making it difficult to achieve that cozy feeling after a shower.
It is mostly caused by the buildup of detergent, which can leave residues that stiffen the fibres of the towel.
Additionally washing towels in hard water, which contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, can also contribute to a rough texture.
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Over-drying towels in the dryer or using high heat can damage the fibres, leading to stiffness, reports the Express.
Some people actually prefer the rough feeling of the towel for exfoliating properties, but if you're looking to put some love back in them, others recommend using soda crystals to restore their fluffy nature - but not everyone agrees.
One cleaning fan, Sunflower6, took to Mumsnet and asked: “Has anyone got any tips on how to make towels soft again once they have gone hard? I tried washing without fabric conditioner but that hasn’t helped.”
User Wowfudge shared her method of soda crystals, that worked best for her. She said: “Wash with soda crystals only in your machine - no washing powder or liquid - on a hot cotton wash, then tumble dry.
“Towels tend to go hard when they have washing powder/liquid residue in them. They should be washed at 60 degrees (or hotter).”
She further mentioned: “The soda crystals will clean the towels and break down the detergent deposits making them hard."
Also known as sodium carbonate, soda crystals re a white, water-soluble salt that can be used for many household cleaning tasks. As well as softening towels, they can also be used to help banish laundry stains.
She continued: “Tumble dryer is optional, but it's the best way of getting lovely soft and fluffy towels at home - you could always take them to the launderette to use the dryer there.
“I find line-dried towels go crisp - you can kind of soften them up (and someone I used to work with swore by ironing them to do so!), but it's not the same.”
Talking about her experience of using white vinegar, the user said: “Some people recommend white vinegar in the machine as a substitute for fabric softener.
“I tried this once when I ran out of softener, and it made everything smell like a chippy although I only used a small amount. I had to wash it all again.”
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