PROPER LAUNDERING AND TOWEL MAINTENANCE

In last week’s article, we explored the importance of choosing high-quality towels with the right GSM to ensure durability, absorbency, and guest satisfaction. However, selecting the perfect towel is only half the equation. Even the best towels can quickly lose their plushness and efficiency without proper care. This week, we’ll dive into the science of laundering and maintenance, essential practices that extend the lifespan of hotel towels while maintaining their luxurious feel.

Best Practices for Laundering Hotel Towels

1. Use the Right Detergent Harsh chemicals, including bleach and strong alkaline detergents, can weaken towel fibers. Choose mild, pH-balanced detergents to maintain the softness and strength of the fabric. The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) recommends using eco-friendly, mild detergents to prolong towel lifespan.
2. Wash in Warm, Not Hot, Water While high temperatures can help sanitize towels, excessively hot water can break down fibers, causing them to lose their softness and absorbency. A washing temperature of 40–60°C (104–140°F) strikes the right balance between cleanliness and durability.
3. Avoid Fabric Softeners While it may seem counterintuitive, fabric softeners can coat towel fibers, reducing their absorbency over time. Instead, add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle occasionally to break down any residue and restore freshness. Studies from laundry industry associations show that using vinegar helps remove detergent buildup, enhancing absorbency.
4. Go for Gentle Drying High heat during drying can cause shrinkage and weaken the fabric. Use a medium heat setting and remove towels while they are still slightly damp to prevent over drying. Air drying for a few minutes can help maintain fluffiness.
5. Don’t Overload the Machine Overcrowding the washing machine prevents towels from being thoroughly cleaned and rinsed. Washing in smaller loads allows for better detergent distribution and rinsing. Textile experts emphasize that towels should be washed separately to reduce lint transfer and maintain softness.
6. Separate Towels from Other Linens Washing towels separately from sheets or clothes reduces lint transfer and prevents pilling, helping them maintain their soft texture longer.
7. Regularly Rotate Towels Even the most durable towels won’t last forever. Implementing a towel rotation system ensures even wear, preventing some from deteriorating faster than others.

Storage and Maintenance Tips

1. Store in a Well-Ventilated Area: Keeping towels in a humid environment can lead to musty odors and mildew growth. Store them in a dry, well-ventilated space to maintain freshness.
2. Fold Properly to Retain Shape: Overly tight folding or cramming towels into storage spaces can compress fibers, making them feel rough. Fold towels loosely to allow air circulation.
3. Replace When Necessary: Even with the best care, towels eventually need to be replaced. If a towel becomes thin, frayed, or loses its absorbency, it’s time for an upgrade. According to hospitality sustainability reports, hotels practicing proper towel care reduce replacement frequency by up to 30%, leading to cost savings.

By following these laundering and maintenance techniques, hotels can keep their towels feeling as soft and inviting as the first time a guest wraps themselves in one. Not only does proper care enhance the guest experience, but it also saves costs by prolonging the lifespan of each towel. In the hospitality industry, attention to the smallest details—like the feel of a fresh, plush towel—can make a lasting impression.