How to Keep Your Towels from Shedding: A Guide by Robinsons

April 04, 2025

Are your towels shedding more than you'd like? If you find pesky lint clinging to your skin or scattered around the bathroom, you're not alone. Shedding is especially common with new cotton towels, and in Singapore's warm and humid weather, maintaining soft, fluffy towels can be a challenge. The constant humidity can lead to slower drying times, which may increase lint build-up and cause musty odours.

But don't worry! At Robinsons, we know a thing or two about premium bath towels, like our Splendour Bath Towel Hotel Collection and Egyptian Luxury Bath Towel Heritage Collection. With a few simple steps, you can enjoy luxurious, lint-free towels every day.

Why Do Towels Shed?

Most high-quality towels are made from cotton, a natural fibre known for its absorbency and comfort. However, natural fibres may initially release loose lint, especially after the first few washes. This is completely normal and usually settles down over time.

Say Goodbye to Lint with These Simple Steps:

Step 1: Shake It Off

Before the first wash, give your new towels a good shake outdoors. This helps remove loose fibres on the surface. Avoid doing this indoors unless you’re ready to clean up scattered lint!

Step 2: Dryer Before Washing

If you have a dryer, toss your towels in on the lowest heat setting for a few minutes before washing. Make sure the lint trap is clean. No dryer? No worries! Proceed to the next step.

Step 3: The Post-Dryer Shake

Once the dryer cycle is complete, give your towels another shake to release any remaining loose lint.

Step 4: Vinegar or Baking Soda Soak

Place your towels in the washing machine with half a cup of vinegar or baking soda and your usual detergent. Use a hot wash to help break down excess lint. This method is especially effective in humid climates, helping to keep towels fresh and odour-free, which is particularly useful in Singapore where dampness can linger.

Step 5: Smart Washing Practices

Avoid overloading your washing machine — towels need space to circulate. Separate towels from clothing with zippers or buttons to prevent snagging. Also, sort towels by colour (lights, darks, colours) to keep them looking vibrant.

Step 6: Swap Fabric Softener for Vinegar

Fabric softeners can trap lint and reduce towel absorbency. Instead, add a quarter cup of vinegar to the fabric softener compartment during the rinse cycle. Vinegar softens the fibres naturally without leaving residue.

Step 7: Another Post-Wash Shake

After washing, shake your towels out again before drying. This helps fluff the fibres and reduces lint.

Step 8: Drying Techniques

Dry your towels on a low to warm heat setting in the dryer or air dry them in the sun. If air drying, hang your towels in a well-ventilated space to prevent musty smells, common in Singapore's humid environment. Avoid high heat, as it can damage fibres.

Step 9: Use Wool Dryer Balls

If using a dryer, throw in a few wool dryer balls. These help fluff towels, reduce drying time, and minimise lint.

Why Choose Robinsons Towels?

Our Splendour Bath Towel Hotel Collection and Egyptian Luxury Bath Towel Heritage Collection are designed to maintain their softness and durability, wash after wash. These towels are crafted to withstand shedding while providing exceptional absorbency — perfect for Singapore’s humid weather.

Shop our premium towel collections at Robinsons and experience the luxury of lint-free, plush towels today!

Enjoy Fluffy, Lint-Free Towels Every Day!

By following these steps, you'll keep your towels feeling fresh, soft, and ready for use — all while minimising shedding. Happy drying!