Different ways to make sure your tea towels are always absorbent
Tea towels are one of those household items that we often take for granted. We use them to dry dishes, clean up spills, and generally just keep our kitchens tidy. But have you ever stopped to think about how important it is to have absorbent tea towels?
Without absorbent tea towels, our kitchens would be a lot messier (and probably smellier) place. So, how can you make sure your tea towels are always absorbent? Here are 15 tips:
1. Use good-quality tea towels.
Cheap, thin tea towels are more likely to lose their absorbency over time. Instead, invest in a few good-quality tea towels that will last longer and do a better job of absorbing water and spills.
2. Wash your tea towels regularly.
If you use your tea towels a lot, make sure to wash them frequently. This will help remove any built-up dirt and oil that could be making them less absorbent.
3. Avoid using fabric softener.
Fabric softeners can actually make fabrics less absorbent by coating them in a thin layer of chemicals. If you want to keep your tea towels absorbent, skip the fabric softener when you wash them.
4. Use white vinegar to remove stains.
If your tea towels start to look stained, don’t reach for the bleach! Bleach is harsh and can break down the fibers of your tea towels, making them less absorbent. Instead, try soaking the tea towels in a mixture of water and white vinegar. The vinegar will help to break down the stains without damaging the fabric.
5. Air dries your tea towels.
Whenever possible, air-dry your tea towels instead of using the dryer. Heat can damage the fibers of your tea towels and make them less absorbent. If you must use the dryer, use the lowest heat setting possible.
6. Don’t over-dry your tea towels.
Just as too much heat can damage your tea towels, so can over-drying them. When you’re finished washing your tea towels, take them out of the dryer while they’re still slightly damp. This will help prevent them from becoming brittle and less absorbent.
7. Fold your tea towels correctly.
Believe it or not, the way you fold your tea towels can affect their absorbency. When folding tea towels, make sure to fold them so that the fibers are running in the same direction. This will help the towel to absorb liquid more evenly and prevent any areas from becoming oversaturated and dripping.
8. Store your tea towels properly.
When you’re not using your tea towels, make sure to store them in a cool, dry place. Humidity can damage the fibers of your tea towels and make them less absorbent.
9. Don’t use your tea towels for everything.
Tea towels are great for cleaning up spills and drying dishes, but they’re not meant to be used for everything. Avoid using them to wipe down countertops or clean up greasy messes, as this can break down the fibers and make them less absorbent.
10. Replace your tea towels regularly.
Even the best-quality tea towels will eventually start to lose their absorbency. To keep your kitchen running smoothly, make sure to replace your tea towels every few months.
11. Know when to throw out a tea towel.
If a tea towel is starting to fall apart or no longer absorbs liquid well, it’s time to toss it out and start fresh with a new one.
12. Use multiple layers of tea towels.
If you’re dealing with a particularly large spill, use multiple layers of tea towels to soak it up. This will help prevent the liquid from saturating one towel and making it less absorbent.
13. Rinse your tea towels after use.
If you’ve used your tea towels to wipe up a grease or oil spill, make sure to rinse them off afterward. This will remove any residue that could make the towels less absorbent.
14. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
Harsh chemicals can damage the fibers of your tea towels and make them less absorbent. When cleaning your tea towels, stick to gentle, natural cleaners like white vinegar or baking soda.
15. Check the care label before washing.
Before washing your tea towels, always check the care label for specific instructions. Some tea towels may require special care in order to stay absorbent.
Conclusion:
Tea towels are a kitchen staple, but they can lose their absorbency over time. To keep your tea towels in top condition, avoid using fabric softener, bleach, and other harsh chemicals. Instead, opt for gentle cleaners like white vinegar or baking soda. Make sure to air dry your tea towels whenever possible, and replace them every few months to ensure the best absorbency.