Bamboo towels and why they lose their absorbency

Short answer: A towel that does not absorb has a film on the fibres. Fabric softener is the most common cause, and too much detergent the second most common.

Fabric softener is the main cause

The softeners settle as a water repellent film. The towel feels soft and pushes the water away instead of soaking it up. See washing and care.

How to get the absorbency back

Wash the towels twice without detergent, preferably with a cup of vinegar the first time. That removes the film. See bamboo towels.

Dose less detergent

Too much soap is not rinsed out and becomes the same kind of film. Halve the dose and see if it helps.

Hang them spread out

A towel hanging folded in half never dries completely, and that is the second common complaint. See home and homewear in bamboo.

Do not wash with clothing

Lint from terry settles in the clothing, and fibres from the clothing settle in the terry. See bamboo bedding.

Frequently asked questions

Why do my towels not absorb?

They have a film on the fibres, almost always from fabric softener or too much detergent.

Can the absorbency come back?

Yes. Wash twice without detergent, preferably with a little vinegar the first time.

Why do towels smell?

Because they do not dry completely between uses. Hang them spread out over a rail.