How To Get White Cotton Towels White Again
White cotton towels are a staple in most homes, but they can easily become dingy and yellowed over time, especially if they are frequently used and washed. Fortunately, there are several effective methods for getting white cotton towels white again. Here are some steps you can follow to restore the brightness and freshness of your white towels.
How To Get White Towels White Again
Sort towels by color
Before washing, sort your towels by color. Whites should be washed separately from colored towels to prevent dye transfer and color bleeding. This is especially important if your white towels are new or have not been washed before, as they may release dye during the first few washes. Make sure that you wash your Belem towel a few times after buying.
Pre-treat stains
Check your towels for any stains and pre-treat them before washing. Common stains on towels include makeup, blood, sweat, and food stains. You can use a laundry stain remover or a mixture of equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water to pre-treat the stains. Apply the solution to the stain, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, and then wash your towel as usual. Avoid using chlorine bleach on white Belem towels, as it can weaken the fabric and cause yellowing over time.
Use warm water
Warm water is effective in removing dirt and stains from white towels. Set your washing machine to a warm temperature possible for the towels you're washing. This is typically between 104°F and 105°F for white cotton towels. If your washing machine does not have a temperature control, use the warmest setting available.
Add a laundry booster
Add a laundry booster like baking soda or white vinegar to the wash cycle. Baking soda is a natural whitener and deodorizer, while white vinegar helps to remove buildup and residue from the towels. For best results, add half a cup of baking soda or white vinegar to the wash cycle along with your regular laundry detergent.
Skip the fabric softener
Fabric softener can leave a waxy buildup on towels, making them less absorbent and prone to yellowing. Instead, add half a cup of distilled white vinegar to the rinse cycle to help soften the towels and remove any remaining buildup. Vinegar also helps to restore the pH balance of the towels, which can be disrupted by hard water or harsh detergents.
Dry in the sun
If possible, dry your towels in the sun. Sunlight has a natural bleaching effect that can help to whiten your towels. Hang the towels outside on a clothesline or drying rack, making sure they are fully exposed to the sun. If you can't dry them outside, use the highest heat setting on your dryer. Avoid over-drying the towels, as this can cause them to become stiff and scratchy. Our Belem towels are engineered to dry quickly so you can continue to use it regularly.
Use oxygen bleach
If your white towels are still not as white as you would like them to be, you can use oxygen bleach to brighten them. Oxygen bleach is a non-chlorine bleach that is safe for most fabrics, including cotton. Add a scoop of oxygen bleach to the wash cycle along with your regular laundry detergent and other laundry boosters. Follow the instructions on the package for best results.
How To Prevent Yellowing
It's important to remember that prevention is key to maintaining the whiteness of your towels. Make sure to wash your white towels regularly and avoid leaving them damp for long periods, as this can lead to mildew and yellowing. You can also add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle every few washes to help keep your towels fresh and prevent buildup.
Additionally, consider investing in high-quality towels made from 100% cotton. All of our Belem towels are made with 100% fine cotton yarn. This is because lower-quality towels made from synthetic fibers or a blend of cotton and synthetic fibers tend to yellow faster and can be harder to clean.
Need White Towels?
White cotton towels are an essential part of any household and keeping them white and fresh can be achieved by following a few simple steps. By following these tips, you can effectively restore your white towels to their original brightness and keep them looking their best.
DZee Home provides you with the best towels in town! Simply visit our website or contact our towel experts to know the right fit for you!