Choosing the Right Towel for Drying Hands: Tips and Facts
Have you ever dried your hands off on a cheap kitchen towel and realized it wasn't as effective as you thought it would be? This is a common experience, and the quality of your towel can significantly impact how well it performs. In this article, we will discuss the importance of towel quality, the role of fabric softener, and the best fabric types for effective drying. Additionally, we will provide tips on where to purchase high-quality towels and how to test them at home.
Why Cheap Towels Fail at Drying
When I went to college, I bought a few cheap bath towels, and even though they were described as 100% cotton, they completely failed at drying my hands. One key reason for this is the difference between the drying side and show side of towels. The drying side has loops like terrycloth, which are designed to absorb water. In contrast, the show side, which looks plush and soft, is not as effective for drying because it can only push water around on your skin without absorbing it.
The Role of Fabric Softener
The use of fabric softener can heavily influence how well a towel performs. Towel makers often want to present potential customers with something soft and fluffy, so they use a lot of fabric softener. Many people follow the same practice at home, adding fabric softener to their laundry to ensure they have soft towels. The problem is, many fabric softeners act as a mild waterproofer, making the towels less effective at drying. Soft towels feel nice to the touch but are harder to use for drying purposes.
The Benefits of 100% Cotton Towels
Without fabric softener, towels are usually a bit stiff and feel a bit scratchy, but they are far more absorbent. This is why cotton towels are the best choice for effective drying. Some people have experienced the same issue with microfiber and polyester towels, as they do not work well for this purpose. The only hand or dish towel you want in your kitchen should be 100% cotton. Flour sack, waffle weave, or Turkish toweling can be excellent options, but towels that are not purely cotton or blends of cotton and other materials will not get the job done.
Where to Buy High-Quality Towels
When it comes to purchasing towels, you want to ensure they are high quality and effective. Dollar Tree is a great option, as they often have towels that work just fine. However, you should consider other factors as well. Sometimes, towels are already damp from previous use, or they have been used for unintended purposes. For example, if you have a baby in the household, someone might have used the hand towel to dry a baby, which could compromise its cleanliness. Decorative towels, while not cheap, are not meant for actual use either. I suggest testing towels at home before making a purchase to ensure they meet your needs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right towel is crucial for effective drying. Cheap towels often fail due to improper design, and fabric softener can impede their performance. Make sure you opt for 100% cotton towels and test them before buying. Whether you're looking for a basic hand towel, dish towel, or something decorative, knowing the importance of towel quality can greatly enhance your daily hygiene routine.