Chores 101: How to fold towels like a pro

We all use towels, but did you know there’s a “best” way to fold them? Learning how to fold towels makes your linen closet look tidy, but it also helps prolong the life of your towels.

The science behind towel care

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Before we dive into the folding techniques, here’s why they matter: Towels are made of absorbent fibers that help dry us off after a bath or shower. But these fibers can also trap bacteria and odors if not cared for correctly. Proper washing and folding techniques can help keep your towels (and you) clean and fresh.

How to fold towels: Step-by-step guide

Follow these easy steps to master the art.

1. Lay your towel flat on a clean surface.

2. Fold in thirds: Fold one side toward the middle, then the other.

3. Now, fold the towel in half.

4. Repeat: Fold it in half again, and voila! You have a professional-grade folded towel.

Tips for towel care

Knowing how to fold towels is just part of the equation. Try these tips to keep your towels fluffy and fresh:

• Don't overstuff the washing machine: Give your towels plenty of space to get clean.

• Use vinegar: A little vinegar in the rinse cycle can help remove excess detergent, keeping your towels softer.

• Skip the fabric softener: While this one might seem counter-intuitive, fabric softeners can actually decrease towel absorbency by leaving a waxy build-up on the fibers.

• Shake before drying: Give dirty towels a good shake before tossing them into the dryer. This helps fluff up the fibers and speeds up the drying process.

• Avoid high heat: High heat can damage the towel fibers and cause your towels to shrink. Instead, use a medium heat setting or even air dry your towels when possible.

• Rotate: Don't keep using the same several towels while the rest are stored away in the closet. To ensure even wear and prolong their lifespan, swap your towels in and out of rotation. 

Fun towel shapes and designs

Add a touch of whimsy to your bathroom by folding your towels into fun shapes or designs like they do at hotels and resorts. Here are some ideas to get creative:

• Flower: Start by rolling up the towel tightly. Then, fold it in half to form a compact shape. Next, gently fan out one end of the towel to create delicate petals, giving it an elegant bloom.

• Elephant: Transform your towel into an adorable elephant by folding it in thirds, lengthwise. Repeat this process with another towel to add more volume and shape. Place one towel on top of the other and tightly roll them together. Finally, fold the rolled towels in half to form the elephant's trunk.

• Swan: Roll up the towel, beginning from one corner. As you roll, give it a slight curve to form the swan's graceful neck. Once the towel is rolled, bend it into a curved shape to emphasize the swan's neck and head. To complete the look, tuck the other end of the towel into the back, creating the swan's head.

Embrace the art of folding towels

Now that you know how to fold towels like a pro, your linen closet will be the envy of all your guests. Your towels will last longer and smell fresher, too.