When you step into a luxury hotel, one of the subtle yet significant signs of quality is the pristine, fluffy white hotel towels waiting for you in the bathroom. They seem to defy the laws of laundry science, remaining spotless, soft, and absorbent wash after wash. How do hotels manage to keep their towels white and in such impeccable condition? Let's uncover the secrets!

The Hotel Laundry Process

1. Stain Removal: The First Line of Defense

Before towels enter the washing machine, hotels take proactive steps to tackle stains. Staff are trained to identify and pre-treat stains immediately. Common pre-treatment solutions include:

• Enzyme-based stain removers: These are particularly effective against organic stains like food and body oils.
• Hydrogen peroxide: A powerful stain remover that is gentle on fabrics yet tough on stains.
• Baking soda paste: A natural and mild abrasive that helps lift stains from fibers.

By addressing stains before washing, hotels ensure that towels come out looking spotless.

2. Washing Towels: The Core Process

Detergent: Less is More

One of the key principles in keeping hotel towels white is using minimal detergent. Overloading towels with soap can lead to residue build-up, making towels stiff and less absorbent. Hotels opt for:

• Mild detergents: These are gentle on fibers and effective in cleaning without leaving residue.
• Right amount of detergent: By using just enough detergent, hotels can ensure a thorough rinse, leaving towels fresh and soft.

Fabric Softener: Proceed with Caution

While fabric softeners might seem like a good idea for keeping towels soft, they can actually have the opposite effect over time. Fabric softeners leave behind a layer of chemicals that:

• Reduces absorbency: The build-up of fabric softener can hinder a towel's ability to soak up water.
• Makes towels feel slimy: Over time, the residue can make towels feel less clean.

Instead, many hotels skip fabric softeners altogether or use them sparingly.

3. Drying: Getting It Just Right

Drying is a crucial step in maintaining both the softness and cleanliness of hotel towels. Here’s what hotels do:

• Avoid over-drying: Over-drying can damage towel fibers, making them rough and reducing their lifespan.
• Avoid under-drying: This can lead to mildew and bacteria growth, which not only affects cleanliness but also the towel’s smell.

Hotels often remove towels from the dryer while they are still slightly damp and finish the drying process on a line. This method helps maintain the integrity of the towel fibers.

4. Keeping Towels White

Bleaching: A Delicate Balance

To achieve and maintain that crisp, white look, hotels often use bleach. However, it’s important to strike a balance:

• Chlorine bleach: Used sparingly, as overuse can weaken fibers.
• Oxygen-based bleach: Gentler on fabrics and effective at maintaining whiteness without the harsh effects of chlorine.

High-Temperature Washing

Hot water is essential for killing germs and bacteria and for removing oils and residues that can cause discoloration. Most hotels wash their towels at high temperatures to ensure they stay hygienic and white.

Regular Replacement

Even with the best care, towels will eventually show signs of wear and discoloration. Hotels regularly replace their towels to ensure guests always enjoy a fresh, white towel experience.

Tips for Home

Want to achieve hotel-quality towels at home? Here are some tips to get you started:

• Pre-treat stains immediately: Don’t let stains set; address them right away.
• Use less detergent: Remember, less is more. This ensures a better rinse and softer towels.
• Skip the fabric softener: Or use it sparingly. Consider using white vinegar in the rinse cycle as a natural alternative.
• Dry properly: Avoid over-drying. Remove towels from the dryer while slightly damp and air dry to finish.
• Use bleach wisely: Opt for oxygen-based bleach for a gentler whitening process.
• Wash in hot water: When possible, wash towels in hot water to keep them clean and bright.

When you purchase towels or towel sets from LivingT, inquire us on our number on how to make them last long. We'll tell you more tips on how not only to make them last but also maintain their color or designs, looking like brand new!