Buzz
Freshly washed towels feel amazing...until they leave you covered in lint after the first use. This issue can continue even after multiple washes. The culprit is the waxy, water-resistant layer of fabric softener applied to most new towels. While this coating makes them look fluffy and appealing on store shelves, it also traps loose fibers and dust, making it stubbornly resistant to washing out.
To stop the endless cycle of lint, you need to remove that initial coating found on new towels. This can be achieved with the right approach and some assistance from everyday household items. The process typically involves three machine cycles: two in the dryer and one in the washer. If you’re unable to afford an extra cycle in a coin-operated or laundromat dryer, don’t worry—you can skip the first dryer cycle. I’ve tested both methods in my building’s outdated coin-op machines, and while the extra dryer cycle improves results, you can still achieve decent outcomes without it.
Begin by removing as much loose lint as possible. Shake the towels thoroughly, then tumble them in the dryer using a no-heat setting such as air fluff. (Ensure the lint trap is completely clean beforehand.) If your dryer lacks a no-heat option, use the lowest heat setting available—high heat can solidify the coating, making it harder to eliminate. Avoid dryer sheets, as they’ll only add more of the coating you’re trying to strip away. After drying, shake the towels again to check for remaining lint. If there’s still a significant amount, clean the lint trap and repeat the process.
Next, wash the towels separately in hot water, adding a detergent enhancer such as vinegar, Borax, or baking soda. These substances assist the hot water and detergent in dissolving the sticky coating and loosening trapped particles. For optimal results, use 1/2 to 1 cup of the booster and no more than half the suggested detergent amount. Avoid adding extra detergent or fabric softener, as they can leave additional residue.
The last step involves drying the towels on high heat without using dryer sheets, which could negate your efforts. If everything goes well, you’ll now have fresh, lint-free towels ready for use.
Updated 3/4/22 with additional information.
