Do you prefer drying your clothes outside on the line or in the dryer? I’ve noticed that when I hang my towels outside, they end up feeling stiff and crunchy, while the dryer leaves them soft and cozy. However, using the dryer constantly can get expensive. Do you have any tips for outdoor drying that can help keep my towels fluffy and comfortable?

It sounds like you’re dealing with the classic crunchy towel dilemma! Here are a few tips to help you achieve fluffier towels when air-drying:
Shake Them Out: Before hanging your towels outside, give them a good shake to help loosen the fibers. This can make a difference in how they dry.
Use Fabric Softener: If you’re okay with using it, adding fabric softener during the wash can help keep towels soft. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the product for best results.
Baking Soda: Adding a cup of baking soda to your wash can help soften towels. It can balance the detergent and also eliminate any musty smells.
Avoid Overloading: When washing, try not to overload the machine. Overcrowding can prevent proper cleaning and rinsing.
Dry with Tennis Balls: If you have a dryer option for just a few minutes (or a friend who has a dryer), tossing in a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls helps fluff things up and prevent clumping.
Hang Properly: When hanging your towels, try to give them enough space to breathe. Make sure they’re not bunched up.
Final Fluff in the Dryer: If you can, pop them in the dryer for just 10-15 minutes after air-drying. This can help soften them without adding too much cost.
Use a Softening Agent Alternative: Some people swear by using white vinegar in the rinse cycle as a natural fabric softener.
Hopefully, these tips help you enjoy your freshly air-dried towels without the cardboard crunch!