Care Guide for Tea Towels: How To Wash and Store

March 1, 2023

Tea towels are versatile kitchen linens used for drying dishes, cleaning surfaces, and handling hot pots and pans. Over time, they can become stained and discolored due to exposure to food particles, grease, and other contaminants. Proper care is essential to ensure they remain clean, hygienic, and long-lasting. In this guide, we'll provide you with practical tips on how to wash and store your tea towels, so they remain in good condition and provide you with effective cleaning and handling, ensuring your kitchen remains healthy and stylish. Whether you have a favorite linen tea towel or a colorful printed one, this guide will help you keep it looking and feeling great.

The Right Way To Wash Tea Towels

Tea towels are often made of cotton or linen and are used to dry dishes or wipe counters. Here are the steps to wash tea towels:
Machine Washing Tea Towels

1. Check the care label to see if the tea towels are machine washable. Most tea towels can be washed in the machine.
2. Separate the tea towels by color to avoid color bleeding. Wash white or light-colored tea towels separately from dark or brightly colored tea towels.
3. Use a normal cycle on the washing machine and set the water temperature to warm. Hot water can cause shrinkage and damage the fabric, while cold water may not effectively remove stains and bacteria.
4. Add a small amount of mild detergent according to the package instructions. Avoid using fabric softener as it can reduce the absorbency of the tea towels.
5. Start the wash cycle and wait until it's finished.
6. Remove the tea towels from the washer and hang them on a clothesline or drying rack to air dry. If you must use the dryer, use the lowest heat setting and remove the tea towels promptly when they're dry to avoid wrinkles and damage to the fabric.

1. Fill a sink or basin with warm water and add a small amount of mild detergent.
2. Separate the tea towels by color to avoid color bleeding. Wash white or light-colored tea towels separately from dark or brightly colored tea towels.
3. Submerge the tea towels in the water and gently scrub them with your hands to remove any stains or bacteria.
4. Rinse the tea towels thoroughly under running water to remove all the soap.
5. Gently squeeze out the excess water. Avoid twisting or wringing the tea towels as it can damage the fabric and reduce absorbency.
6. Hang the tea towels on a clothesline or drying rack to air dry. Avoid using the dryer as it can shrink or damage the fabric and reduce absorbency.

How Often To Wash Tea Towels

Tea towels are exposed to food, spills, and bacteria. Washing them after every use prevents odors and bacteria buildup.

The Right Way To Store Tea Towels

How to Fold Pot Holders

1. First, fold each pot holder in half.
2. Then, fold in half again to create a smaller, compact shape.

1. You can hang pot holders on hooks or a rod to keep them easily accessible.

Expert Advice for Maintaining The Quality Of Your Tea Towels

To keep tea towels in top shape, it's important to follow a few practical tips. First and foremost, always check the care label instructions to ensure proper washing and drying procedures. When machine washing tea towels, be sure to separate them by color to avoid color bleeding. Using warm water and a mild detergent will effectively remove stains and bacteria without causing damage to the fabric. Avoid using fabric softener, as it can reduce the absorbency of the tea towels. It's best to air dry tea towels on a clothesline or drying rack, but if using a dryer, use the lowest heat setting and remove the tea towels promptly when they're dry to avoid wrinkles and damage to the fabric. For handwashing tea towels, gently scrub them with your hands and avoid twisting or wringing the fabric to prevent damage. It's also helpful to invest in mesh bags or a proper drying rack to reduce wear and tear. By following these tips and caring for tea towels properly, you can extend their lifespan and keep them in top shape.

Want to share this?