Buying your first bamboo towels
Short answer: Towels made from bamboo viscose feel soft and absorb well, but they behave a little differently from cotton in the first weeks. Here is what to expect and how to care for them from the very first wash.
What bamboo means in a towel
When a towel is described as bamboo, the yarn is usually viscose made from bamboo cellulose, often blended with cotton. Viscose has a smooth fibre, which is why the loops feel soft and almost cool against the skin. The fibre can take up a lot of water, but it is also slightly heavier when wet, and it does not always dry faster than cotton. Have a look at bamboo towels if you want to compare sizes and weights before you decide.
The first few washes
New towels often carry leftover finishing agents from production, and that can make them less absorbent at the start. Wash them once or twice before use, ideally at 40 degrees and without fabric softener. Softener coats the fibres and reduces absorbency over time. Many people find that a towel becomes softer and more absorbent after three to five washes, because the loops open up and the finish is rinsed away.
Everyday washing and drying
Use a mild dose of detergent and avoid overloading the machine, so the loops can move freely in the drum. Viscose tolerates warmth, but high temperatures and a hard spin wear the fibre. A tumble dryer can be used on low heat, but a washing line is gentler and saves energy. Shake the towel well before hanging it so the loops stand up again. Do not leave damp towels together in a basket, as that quickly leads to a musty smell.
Loose loops and lint
It is normal for new towels to shed a little lint in the first washes. Wash them on their own or with similar colours at first. If a loop gets pulled out, snip it off at the base with scissors instead of pulling it, otherwise more loops may follow. It is also worth checking the hem, since a firm, well sewn edge helps the towel keep its shape for longer.
Choosing size and weight
A heavier towel with a dense pile feels generous but takes longer to dry. A lighter towel is practical for travel, the gym and small bathrooms with poor ventilation. Think about where the towel will hang and how quickly it needs to be ready again. Brands such as Boody and Resteröds are examples of labels working with bamboo viscose, so it is worth reading the material description from each brand before you buy.
When to replace a towel
A towel is worn out when it smells soon after washing, when the loops are flat, or when it no longer absorbs. Often a wash without softener and with a little vinegar in the rinse compartment brings it back to life. If the fabric has become thin and stiff, it is time to give it a second life as a cleaning cloth.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use fabric softener on bamboo towels
No. Softener makes the surface feel soft at first but reduces absorbency. Detergent on its own is enough.
Why does my new towel absorb so poorly
There are often finishing agents from production left in the fibres. They usually wash out after a few cycles.
Can I tumble dry bamboo towels
Yes, on low heat. Take them out while slightly damp and let them finish drying on a line.
