I always used to buy cheap sheets and towels. Having cats as I do, I have to wash them a lot, and I always figured that cheap ones did the job as well as expensive ones.
I started using cotton percale sheets about ten years ago, and three years ago I changed to hotel-quality towels. I always used to use IKEA towels but after switching to these fancy towels, I will never go back. We have two bath towels, two hand towels, and two guest towels. For guests we have new sets of Hemtex regular towels in cream.
My favourite towels are thick, absorbent ones that are a teeny bit ‘stiff’. I hate velvety towels that seem to smear the water around, and also thin, scratchy towels. These weight 550g per square meter and wash beautifully. I don’t use fabric softener with towels.
I bath or shower every single day, in summer sometimes twice a day. It is not only a cleansing ritual, but a shower wakes me up for the day in the morning, and a bath leaves the workday behind me. Having something nice to swathe myself in afterwards is a pleasure I revel in every single time.
As I have grown older I have learned the value of good sheets and towels, nice shoes, great pens, and good winter clothing!
Any tips on washing towels to keep their softness? Recently I’ve been trying vinegar as a final rinse, but it doesn’t seem to be that much different to fabric conditioner.
I couldn’t agree more, Janet!