DEAR HELOISE: In one of your columns, you featured a note from a reader who has a problem with her bath towels having a malodorous smell. In response to her issue, you had recommended: “You really shouldn't use fabric softener (liquid or sheets), either. These softeners can cause a buildup, and the towels will not absorb water as well. Check the manufacturer's label – some even state not to use fabric softener.”
I work at Procter & Gamble, which manufactures both liquid and sheet fabric enhancers. We saw your column and wanted to provide some additional perspective to your response.
When towels do not absorb water properly, water cannot thoroughly penetrate and clean the towels, therefore causing a malodor. Towels can lose their absorbency for many different reasons. Older towels, through numerous baths and launderings, become thinner and less fluffy and can no longer do the job. Towels can also have problems absorbing water from over-softening and/or undercleaning. At the recommended dosage levels, however, fabric softeners do not cause a buildup on towels or other fabrics.
If towels are still in good shape, make sure you use softeners and detergents in the amounts as directed on the label. You can also help restore your towels' absorbency by washing them twice with double the recommended amount of a good detergent.
I hope this provides you with some additional background on the topic.
– Allison Yang, Cincinnati
Allison, thanks for taking the time to update my readers about proper care of towels and why it's important to read directions and use laundry products correctly. Many people use too much detergent and fabric softener, thinking more is better when it's actually detrimental.
Remember, folks, don't overstuff the washer. You want those towels to be washed and rinsed well.
– Heloise
Send a great hint to: Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000, or fax it to (210) HELOISE.
