How can I get my 100% cotton towels to be more absorbent?

Question

When I first bought them I figured after a couple of washings they would become more absorbent. They seem to repell water instead of absorbing it.

Answer 1

I don't use fabric softener either but I do add Calgon water softener with the detergent. It softens the water for better cleaning and leaves them soft without coating the fibers. They are fluffly and absorbant and smell great. I get Calgon in the laundry aisle at the grocery store. It comes in a white bottle. Try it, you'll like it.

Answer 2

Don't use fabric softener or dryer sheets. It will probably take a couple washing to get it out of your towels if you have been using softeners. The fabric softeners also make them more prone to mildew as well.

Answer 3

Are you using fabric softener when you wash your towels? If you use fabric softener it can coat the fibers enough to make the towel less absorbent.

Answer 4

I use a fabric softener....just a fabric sheet not liquid...
because I hate static cling !! it does a great job and my towels are very absorbent.I also use Tide -Free. Tide with nothing in it lol
you will love it!! Everything is much softer!

Answer 5

Clare is right, you cannot use fabric softener on your towels, or they wont work as well. I never new this until my wife told me about it. Give Clare the 10 points for best answer.

Answer 6

Good answers-- but add this-- MEASURE your detergent and softner-- most folks don't-- and they use up their products too fast.....
Too much liquid softner will cause even diapers to repel moisture-- you can use it to add water rejection to a fabric raincoat--
good luck

Answer 7

do not add fabric softener when you dry them.

Answer 8

try boiling and don,t use comfort or other conditioners makes them to soft.