How to Make Scratchy Towels Soft Again …Using One Simple Ingredient

Few things feel more disappointing than stepping out of the shower and reaching for a towel that’s stiff, rough, and barely absorbent. Towels that once felt plush and luxurious can slowly turn scratchy over time—and it’s not because they’re worn out.

The real culprit is buildup. Detergent residue, fabric softener coatings, hard-water minerals, and trapped body oils slowly clog cotton fibers. When that happens, towels lose their ability to absorb water and fluff up properly. The result? Rough texture, lingering odors, and towels that just don’t do their job anymore.

The good news: you don’t need to replace them. With a simple adjustment to your laundry routine, you can bring your towels back to life.

Why Vinegar Works Wonders on Towels

Plain white distilled vinegar is a laundry secret that professionals swear by—and for good reason. Vinegar’s mild acidity breaks down mineral deposits and detergent residue that cling to towel fibers. Once that buildup is gone, the cotton loops open up again, restoring both softness and absorbency.

Unlike fabric softener (which actually coats fibers and makes towels worse over time), vinegar cleans deeply without leaving anything behind. Think of it as a reset button for your towels.