How to Wash Your Workout Terry Towel for Long Life
By MoveActive USA | Grip Socks & Accessories for Pilates, Yoga | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: Tips & Care
Keep your terry towel absorbent and fresh with these simple care steps. Learn the right wash routine, drying tips, and common mistakes to avoid.
Quick answer
Wash your workout terry towel in warm water with a mild detergent, skip fabric softener, and air dry or tumble dry on low to keep it absorbent and long-lasting.
Why regular care matters for terry towels
Terry towelling fabric works because of its looped pile, which traps moisture. Over time, residue from detergents, fabric softeners, and body oils can clog those loops, making the towel less absorbent. A simple, consistent wash routine prevents that buildup and keeps the towel performing well during every workout.
When to wash your workout towel
After every sweaty session, rinse the towel with cool water and hang it to dry before tossing it in the laundry basket. This prevents mildew and odor from setting in. If you can't wash it right away, at least let it dry completely before storing.
Step-by-step wash routine for your terry towel
- Pre-treat stains: Apply a small amount of mild detergent directly to any sweat or dirt marks and let it sit for 5 minutes before washing. Common mistake: using bleach or stain removers with optical brighteners – these can weaken terry fibres.
- Wash in warm water: Set your machine to a warm water cycle (around 40°C / 105°F) and use a gentle or normal cycle. Add half the recommended amount of liquid detergent – too much soap leaves residue. Checkpoint: skip fabric softener entirely. It coats the loops and reduces absorbency.
- Dry properly: Air dry the towel flat or on a line, out of direct sunlight. If using a dryer, tumble dry on low heat and remove while still slightly damp to avoid overheating the loops. Common mistake: drying on high heat or over-drying can shrink the towel and stiffen the fabric.
Product spotlight
- Workout Terry Towel - Cabernet: The Workout Terry Towel - Cabernet is made with premium terry towelling fabric for optimal absorption. To keep that absorption working well, avoid fabric softener and high heat drying, which can damage the loops over time.
Workout Terry Towel - Cabernet
