NEW YORK -- Towels are a necessity, but many Americans also treat them as if they were one of life's little luxuries. Picture it - first thing in the morning, you wash your face and immediately bury it in fresh, clean terry cloth. Imagine - it's the end of a long day, you emerge from the tub, and carefully fold yourself into the enveloping warmth of a waiting bath sheet. These simple but pleasant activities give us the chance to pamper ourselves in the midst of our hectic routines. An opportunity we seldom get otherwise. Is it any wonder that 601 million dollars worth of towels were sold during the first half of 1995, an increase of 6.1 percent over the same time period the year before?
Buying domestics though can often be confusing. The seemingly endless varieties of towels available at retail can make it difficult to make the proper selection. And of course, personal taste does play a part in the decision making process. Some people want their towels to be thick and heavy, others go for soft and fluffy, while still others like velvety or textured styles.
According to a survey conducted by Stores Magazine, a trade publication, 81 percent of prospective shoppers say the most important consideration when purchasing bath towels is how the fabric feels against their skin. Considering American's partiality toward towels with a soothing touch, it is not surprising that 83 percent of consumers prefer their towels be made of cotton. Only a small proportion of those polled, (14 percent) said they were in the market for towels that are a cotton/polyester combination.
Whatever type you choose, buy the highest quality you can afford; good towels last over a decade. Look for towels that are tightly woven and generously sized. The number of loops in a towel are an indication of its drying ability. More and higher loops signal a "thirstier" towel.
While it is possible to find attractive towels made of everything from linen to synthetic blends, function as well as fashion should be considered. "The purpose of a towel is to blot up water," reminds Wolfgang Strahl, Senior Vice President, Textile Research and Implementation for Cotton Incorporated. "Cotton actually absorbs moisture within the structure of the fiber, between its various layers or walls. In addition, it gets stronger when wet and can be sanitized at high temperatures, using strong bleach (use color safe bleach for non-white or printed towels) and detergent without harm."
Regarding quantity and care - experts advise a general rule of thumb for a well-stocked bathroom is - 3 bath towels per person, 3 hand towels, 1 to 2 bath sheets, 6 washcloths, 2 fingertip towels. Launder frequently, separating whites from colors and rinsing thoroughly. Liquid fabric softeners are not recommended as their overuse will cause undesirable stiffness and reduce absorbency. Tumble drying is suggested. Ironing is not needed.
The 100% cotton "Shampoo Towel" by WestPoint Stevens, was specifically designed to dry the hair and is perfectly scaled to wrap comfortably around the head. |
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