How to Keep Towels Soft When Line-Drying
Introduction:
Line-drying your towels can be a great way to save energy, money, and give your towels a fresh outdoor scent. However, many people find that line-dried towels can sometimes become stiff and rough. If you want to keep your towels soft and fluffy even when line-drying, follow these simple tips and tricks.
1. Shake Them Out:
Before hanging your towels on the line, give them a good shake to fluff up the fibers. This will help prevent them from becoming too stiff.
2. Use Fabric Softener:
Adding fabric softener to your laundry routine can help keep your towels soft and reduce stiffness. Simply add a small amount of fabric softener to the rinse cycle when washing your towels. Alternatively, you can use a homemade fabric softener with ingredients like vinegar or baking soda to naturally soften your towels.
3. Avoid Over-Drying:
One common mistake when line-drying towels is leaving them out for too long. Over-drying can make the towels feel stiff and rough. Instead, remove them from the line as soon as they are dry to the touch but still slightly damp. This will help retain the softness.
4. Fluff Them Up:
Once your towels are dry, give them a good shake and toss them in the dryer on the no-heat or low-heat setting for a few minutes. This will help fluff up the fibers and make them feel softer.
5. Use Tennis Balls:
If you don’t have a dryer, you can still achieve soft towels by adding a couple of clean tennis balls to the line while they dry. The tennis balls will help agitate the towels, preventing them from becoming too stiff.
6. Avoid Direct Sunlight:
While line-drying, try to find a spot where your towels won’t be exposed to direct sunlight for long periods. Sunlight can fade the colors and make the towels feel rough. If you have no choice but to hang them in the sun, consider turning them inside out to minimize color fading.
7. Use Towel-Specific Detergent:
Choosing the right detergent can make a big difference in keeping your towels soft. Look for a detergent specifically formulated for towels, as these are designed to maintain softness and absorbency. Avoid using too much detergent, as excess soap can create build-up and make the towels stiff.
8. Try Vinegar:
Adding a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle can act as a natural fabric softener and help prevent stiffness. The vinegar will help remove any soap residue and leave your towels feeling soft and fresh.
9. Don’t Overcrowd:
When hanging your towels on the line, make sure not to overcrowd them. Give each towel enough space to allow air circulation. Proper airflow will help towels dry evenly and maintain their softness.
10. Store Them Properly:
Once your towels are dry, store them correctly to maintain their softness. Fold them neatly and stack them in a cool and dry place. Avoid storing them in a damp environment, as this can lead to mildew and make them feel stiff.
My 2 Cents:
Line-drying towels is an eco-friendly alternative to using a dryer. However, the challenge lies in keeping them soft and fluffy. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the benefits of line-drying while still having towels that are cozy and soft. Remember to shake them out before hanging, use fabric softener or vinegar, avoid over-drying, and fluff them up before storing. With a little extra care, your line-dried towels can feel even better than those dried in a machine!
