If your towel has become stiff or rough due to being dried for too long in the dryer or hung up to air dry, there are several methods you can try to help soften it. Here are some suggestions:
Rewash with vinegar: Start by rewashing the towel using warm water and add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. Vinegar helps remove soap residue and mineral deposits that can contribute to stiffness.
Use fabric softener: Add a fabric softener sheet or a small amount of liquid fabric softener to the dryer when drying the towel. This can help to make the fabric softer and reduce static cling.
Tumble with tennis balls: Place the stiff towel in the dryer with a couple of clean tennis balls. The tennis balls will help to fluff up the fibers and break up any stiffness.
Dry with a dryer sheet: Toss the towel back in the dryer with a dryer sheet for a short cycle. The sheet will help to reduce static and add a pleasant scent to the fabric.
Use a fabric conditioner: Soak the towel in a mixture of water and fabric conditioner for a few hours. Then, rinse it thoroughly and hang it up to air dry. This method can help soften the fibers.
Give it a good shake: After the towel has dried, give it a vigorous shake to loosen the fibers and make it feel softer.
Use a fabric softening spray: There are fabric softening sprays available in the market that you can lightly spray on the towel. Follow the instructions provided with the product for best results.
Remember that some towels, especially those made of certain materials like microfiber, may naturally be less soft than others. Additionally, excessive heat or prolonged drying can damage the fibers, so it's important to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer to maintain the quality and softness of your towels.