Back to the drawing board on drying towels

[tw1012]

I ordered a multitude of towels from Towels by Dr. Joe.

The window towels are great along with the waffle towels for wiping down upholstery. The only problem I am having is with the ambassador.

We have been using it to wipe down the body of the cars and it just doesn't seem to absorb the water.

Can someone suggest a better towel for wiping down the exterior of the vehicle?

Thanks,

Trevor

 

[jfmoran]

Are you using them dry or damp?

 

[tw1012]

I have been using them dry. I take it thats not right?

 

[jfmoran]

I know it doesn't seem to make sense, but damp towels are much more absorbent than dry towels. Wash them, spin the water out of them, but do not dry them. I think you will be much happier with the results.

 

[Washmee]

None of the towels we use for my fullservice wash are completely dried, except for wax removal. Make sure you treat them with an acid based product to keep them from getting moldy.

 

[tw1012]

Thanks for the info. Could you give an example of an acid based product?

I am also just using laundry soap to clean them, is that ok?

 

[Washmee]

Thanks for the info. Could you give an example of an acid based product?

I am also just using laundry soap to clean them, is that ok?

We do not use laundry detergent on body towels. They get used and washed so often that they stay plenty clean enough to dry cars. The acid I speak of is called Laundry Sour. You could use a small amount of vinegar instead, but I prefer the Sour. Here is what I use, but there are many other products on the market just like it.

Zep NEUTRIX

 

[MEP001]

A small amount of ammonia-based cleaner would be better than laundry detergent. Ammonia will help remove silicone from dressings that will get on them.

 

[soapy]

When cotton towels are made a lubricant is put on the cotton called sizing that prevents the cotton from catching fire as it goes through the weavers at high speeds. When you get new towels this sizing is still on the cotton. If you have white towels a very got water wash with bleach will get rid of the sizing and open up the cotton fibers for better drying. Initial wash of any towel should be in very hot water to remove the sizing. Laundry soap on towels will coat them and cause them to not be as absorbant. After a few washes the towels will become more absorbant.