Towel Problem and Solution Guide
Problem: Excessive Linting (Fluffing or Pilling)
It is quite normal for cotton towels, particularly with a long pile, to lint or fluff in the initial few washes. Dark colours tend to shed more than lighter colours because of longer processing time in the dye machine. It would be unusual if the towel does not stop shedding after 5/6 washes.
Please Note: Dark colours spend up to 4 times longer in the dye vats than light colours.
Solution:
A small amount of fabric softener in the wash cycle will help reduce pilling. Although if too much is used, the absorbency of the towel may be affected. It is recommended to use no more than ½ a capful per average load.
It is recommended to finish towels in a tumble drier. A large amount of lint can be removed during this process, but do not over dry the towels. The dryer should be set at a warm temperature only. Ensure that the filter is cleaned regularly.
Do not over or underload the washing machine or dryer to prevent excessive abrasion against the drum wall.
Problem: Frayed Side Hems
In rare cases the side hems may not be sewn correctly due to seam misalignment. The percentage is less than .2% If the hem frays, this will usually show up in the first or second wash.
Solution:
Advise Marbret International for repair or replacement.
Problem: Streaky patches or colour loss
The use of optical brighteners in washing powders/detergents not dissolved properly before washing.
Solution:
Avoid use of optical brighteners where possible and ensure detergents are properly dissolved prior to commencement of washing cycle.
Problem: Colour loss / Patches of colour
(yellowish marks on green, pink marks on purple or blue etc)
This damage on towels can usually be attributed to the towel coming into contact with a form of bleach commonly found in household cleaning agents and facial cleansers such as Clearasil, which contains Benzyl Peroxide. Make up can also cause discolouration. The effect is not usually seen until the towel is next washed.
Solution:
Avoid leaving damp towels on floors or places where bleach can be reactivated e.g. tile grout. Avoid wiping face cleansers and make up directly onto the towel.
Problem: Brown stains mostly on light coloured towels
Patches of softener or detergent, which has not been diluted properly prior to washing and has stained the fibres of the towel.
Solution:
Washing the towels in with mild dishwashing liquid (e.g. Sunlight), rubbed into the stain with plenty of warm water. If too little water is used, the liquid may stain the towel.
Problem: Poor absorbency
Excessive use of fabric softener, which coats the fibres and actually repels water instead of absorbing it.
Solution:
Wash towels with ½ cup of white vinegar.
Washing towels without softener and finishing in tumble dryer will help regain absorbency.
Problem: Pulled threads
Usually towels have come into contact with rough or sharp items.Over use of fabric softeners will increase the risk of pulled threads.
Solution:
Simply snip off the pulled loop with a pair of sharp scissors. As the towels are woven and not knitted, a pulled thread will not unravel the fabric. Trimming off pulled threads will avoid further damage and will not affect the softness or durability of the towel. Avoid using fabric softeners where possible.