How to Wash & Care for Beach Towels

How to Wash & Care for Beach Towels

Keeping your beach towels in top shape is essential for a fresh and enjoyable summer. Knowing how to wash, dry and store them properly ensures they stay soft, vibrant and ready for your next beach day.

In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about beach towel care, including how often to wash them, the best ways to dry them to maintain their quality and smart storage tips to keep them fresh. Follow these simple steps to extend the life of your beach towels, so they're always beach-ready whenever you are!




Quick Links:




What Is A Beach Towel?

A beach towel is a large, absorbent towel designed specifically for use at the beach. Typically made from soft cotton, quick-drying microfibre or plush velour, they are longer than standard towels, usually around 160-180cm. Their larger size provides plenty of space for lounging, while the absorbent materials quickly dry you off after a swim, making them beach essentials.

At Harris Scarfe, you'll find a great selection of high-quality beach towels such as our amazing Dro Glo beach towels. Offering a luxuriously soft feel, our beach towels combine comfort, style and functionality, ideal for beach lovers! Featuring various sizes and cotton composition for softness and absorbency. Our selection of beach towels is available in various colours, patterns and styles. We have trusted brands of beach towels including Dri Glo, Soren, Sheridan and more!

Dri Glo Beach Towel Range
Chyka Home Beach Towel Range
Shaynna Blaze Beach Towel Range

How To Wash Beach Towels

Step 1

Reading the label on your beach towel before washing it is essential to keep it looking and feeling its best. The care instructions can provide the right washing temperature, drying tips and whether fabric softeners should be avoided to maintain absorbency.

Following these guidelines will prevent colour fading, shrinkage or damage to the fibres, ensuring your beach towel stays soft, vibrant and ready for all your beach adventures!


Step 2

Before tossing your beach towel in the wash, make sure to give it a good shake to get rid of any excess sand. Sand is abrasive, and if left on the towel, it can damage the drum of your washing machine over time. A thorough shake not only helps protect your washing machine but also prevents the sand from getting embedded in the fabric, which can make the towel feel rough. Keep your beach towel soft and your machine safe by taking this simple step before every wash!


Step 3

Pretreating stains on your beach towel before washing is crucial for maintaining its look and feel. If you find any stains, letting them sit for at least an hour in a cleaning solution helps to loosen and lift the residue, making it easier for the washing machine to do its job. Skipping this step may allow stains to set in permanently, which can dull the beach towel's colours and reduce its quality. Take the time to treat stains for lasting freshness!


Step 4

Washing beach towels separately in their own load is essential to keep them looking fresh. Always separate colours to prevent darker towels from bleeding onto lighter or white ones. Plus, avoid overloading the washing machine, as beach towels need space to circulate for a proper cleaning. Giving them their own load ensures thorough washing, vibrant colours and softer fabric, keeping your beach towels in top condition all summer long!


Step 5

For the best care, wash beach towels on a normal cycle with cool to lukewarm water. This setting provides a thorough clean while being gentle on the fibres. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener unless otherwise directed on the label, as bleach can weaken the fabric, and fabric softener can reduce the towel's absorbency. Proper washing helps maintain softness, colour and durability.




How To Dry A Beach Towel

To dry your beach towel in a dryer, set it to a low heat to prevent damage to the fibres and keep the towel feeling soft. Add natural wool dryer balls (or tennis balls) to the load, which help fluff up the fabric and reduce drying time. If you prefer an eco-friendly (and easier) option, hanging your beach towel on a clothesline to naturally dry is a great choice. Fresh air and sunlight not only leave it feeling soft but also help eliminate any lingering odours. Whether you choose the dryer or the clothesline, taking the time to dry your beach towel properly keeps it in top shape for all your beach adventures!


How To Fold Beach Towels

Folding your beach towel the right way ensures it's always ready for your next trip. Start by laying the towel flat, smoothing out any wrinkles. Fold it in half lengthwise, aligning the edges. Next, fold it in half again, bringing the short ends together. For a more compact fold, fold it into thirds by bringing one end toward the centre and then the other over it. This method not only saves storage space but also keeps the towel looking neat. Perfect for packing in your beach bag or stacking in your linen closet, it's the ideal way to store your beach towel!




Where To Store Beach Towels

Sheridan Beach Towel Range
Elysian Beach Towel Range

Storing your beach towels properly keeps them fresh and ready for your next adventure! Consider dedicating a storage basket in your bathroom or laundry room for easy access. If space allows, use a shelf or cabinet close to your pool or patio area, so they're always within reach. For a stylish touch, hang them on decorative hooks or a towel rack in your bathroom. If you have limited space, roll them up and place them in a decorative basket for a chic display. Whichever method you choose, ensure they're stored in a dry area to maintain their quality!




Discover The Best Beach Towels At Harris Scarfe Today

Follow these steps to make sure your beach towels are always clean, fluffy and ready to go when you are! Visit us online or in-store to shop our entire range of beach towels.


Shop Beach Towels


Head over to the Hub for more fun ideas and inspiration! Some great articles you'll love include:

share