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Have you ever noticed those horizontal stripes at the ends of hotel towels? At first glance, they seem like they're there just to add an elegant touch, as if the towel came straight from a linen store window. However, behind this neat appearance lies a much more ingenious function. Once you know the secret, you'll never look at your towels the same way again...
An aesthetic detail... but not only that
These stripes have a name: "dobby" borders. They are woven directly into the towel, with a tighter weave or a different texture. Located about 10 to 15 cm from each end, they are smooth, flat, and a little less absorbent than the rest of the terry cloth. While their appearance is pleasing, their origins are not solely decorative.
The secret to their durability
In hotels, towels are washed very frequently at high temperatures, wrung out, dried, folded... hundreds of times. They are therefore subjected to severe wear and tear. The dobby strips act as a frame, keeping the towel straight and limiting fraying. The result: it retains its shape longer, without curled edges or loose threads.
A practical guide for folding
Folding dozens, even hundreds of towels a day requires speed and consistency. The strips serve as a visual and tactile guide to achieve perfectly even folds. It's thanks to them that stacks of towels in hotel closets always look impeccable.
Furthermore, when a hotel has several towel sizes (bath, hand, face, etc.), these strips allow staff to quickly identify them. Even if they're all white, they can't be mistaken.
A discreet reinforcement that protects the most used area
The central part of a towel receives the most wear and tear: it absorbs moisture and is in direct contact with the skin. By placing the strips at the ends, manufacturers reinforce the lesser-used areas, which prolongs the softness and effectiveness of the center of the towel.
How to Use It at Home
You don't need to run a hotel to benefit from the effectiveness of dobby bands. The next time you buy napkins, choose ones with this type of finish if you want to combine aesthetics and durability. They'll warp less quickly, withstand frequent washing better, and be easier to fold neatly.
A little tip: for a "hotel-style" fold, use the band as a guide. First, fold the napkin lengthwise, aligning the band in the center, then fold it in thirds or quarters. You'll get a neat, even result, perfect for your shelves.
Sometimes, the most subtle details reveal the ingenuity of everyday objects... and this band on your napkin is a good example.
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