ABC News June 3, 2010

Towels Lost Their Fluff? You Can Make Them Plush Again

GMA
GMA

Repeated washings can rob towels of their luxuriant plushness, rendering them limp, flat and rough.

When that happens, people can either get rid of them, or keep using them -- but without the same enjoyment.

There is a third option: Restore those droopy old towels to their former glory. And yes, you can do it in the wash.

But if you're thinking that you need to add even more fabric softener than normal to get the job done, you're wrong.

The trick to turning those towels around is to add detergent PLUS a half-cup of baking soda. Add a cup of white vinegar in the rinse cycle to help remove the build-up of fabric softener. Dry the towels as you normally would, and enjoy fluffy towels!

Here are some other laundry and wash-day tips:

If you're going to wash a lace garment, it's best to do it by hand and with a detergent intended to clean delicate fabrics. Don't rub the garment. Squeeze it to get rid of extra moisture – don't wring or twist lace clothing. Shape the garment by hand and allow it to air dry. Click HERE for tips on how to wash linen, flannel, chiffon, denim and many other fabrics and textiles.

Did you know that adding too much detergent to your washing machine can make your clothes stiff and dry? Click HERE for tips on what to do – and what not to do -- when you're using your washer and dryer.

Your baby's skin is very sensitive. If your baby wears cloth diapers, it's best to separate them from the general laundry and wash them on their own. Click HERE for more tips on doing your baby's laundry.

Click here to return to the "Good Morning America" website.