Investing in high-quality, plush towels is a surefire way to elevate your shower routine to a five-star hotel experience. And popping them in the dryer before you step into the shower — or, you know, whenever you actually get around to the laundry — leaves your bathroom linens feeling exceptionally soft and fluffy. However, you…
Before you panic, know that towels are perfectly dryer-safe, and a low-to-medium heat cycle actually helps preserve the fibers’ integrity. The trouble starts when you reach for a dryer sheet.
Why Dryer Sheets Are a No-No for Towels
Dryer sheets are coated with fabric softener that melts into your laundry as the dryer heats up. This process coats the fabric in a thin layer of residue to reduce static and improve softness. While this sounds great in theory, that buildup wreaks havoc on a towel’s absorbency, resulting in a linen that’s all fluff and no function.
That transfer from the dryer sheet creates a hydrophobic barrier that prevents towel fibers from soaking up water — no matter how fluffy they look. Repeatedly exposing your linens to these sheets leads to a waxy buildup that reduces their efficacy with every load. It’s also worth noting that you shouldn’t use fabric softener in the wash, either, as the same issues can occur.
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Tips To Keep Towels Plush
To get softer, fluffier towels without dryer sheets, use a low-to-medium heat cycle to prevent that stiff, crunchy texture. You can also toss in a few wool dryer balls; they’ll improve softness and cut down on drying time without interfering with your towels’ absorbency.
