To keep a towelling bathrobe soft, wash it warm with a mild detergent, skip the fabric softener, and dry it on a low heat or on the line. Always check the care label first, as it is the final word for your robe.
Wash it before you first wear it
New cotton towelling often sheds a few loose fibres, especially in darker colours. One wash on its own before you wear it rinses most of them away, and the robe usually becomes softer and more absorbent after the first few washes.
Step-by-step washing
- Remove the belt and wash it with the robe so it does not tangle.
- Wash dark colours separately for the first few washes, as cotton dye can run.
- Choose a warm wash, around 30 to 40°C, with a mild detergent.
- Do not use bleach. It weakens cotton fibres and fades colour.
- Do not overload the drum. Towelling needs space to rinse properly.
Drying
Tumble dry on low, or hang the robe on a line or airer. A low heat stops the cotton loops becoming stiff and helps the robe keep its size. Give it a good shake before drying to lift the pile. There is no need to iron towelling.
Why you should skip fabric softener
Fabric softener coats the cotton loops. It can make a robe feel softer at first, but over time it reduces how well the towelling absorbs water, which is the whole point of a bathrobe. If your robe starts to feel stiff, try a rinse without detergent or a smaller dose of detergent next time.
How often to wash a bathrobe
If you wear your robe after every shower, washing it about once a week is a good rhythm. Hang it up to dry fully between wears so it stays fresh.
Common problems and fixes
- Loose threads or a pulled loop: snip it level with the fabric. Do not pull it, as that can pull more loops.
- Lint on dark robes: wash separately and give the robe a shake before drying.
- Robe feels rough: use less detergent, skip softener, and dry on low rather than high heat.
Looking for a robe that is easy to care for? Our 100% cotton towelling dressing gown is machine washable and comes in 6 colours. If you are still deciding between materials, read towelling vs fleece dressing gowns.
