How to Make Stiff Washcloths Soft Again

Quck answer

Washcloths can become stiff and rough over time due to soap residue and mineral buildup. To clean stiff washcloths, follow these steps:

1. Fill a sink or basin with warm water.

2. Add a cup of white vinegar or a quarter cup of baking soda to the water.

3. Place the washcloths in the solution and let them soak for 30 minutes to an hour.

4. After soaking, agitate the washcloths in the water to loosen any remaining residue.

5. Rinse the washcloths thoroughly with clean water.

6. Hang them to dry or tumble dry on low heat.

7. If the washcloths are still stiff, repeat the process or try using a fabric softener during the rinse cycle.

Regularly cleaning washcloths will help keep them soft and in good condition for longer use.


Washcloths are meant to be soft and gentle on the skin, not rough and irritating. However, if you use too much detergent when washing them, the fibers can become stiff and uncomfortable. While fabric softeners are often used to soften washcloths, they actually leave a coating of silicone on the fibers, making them less absorbent over time. Fortunately, there are simple techniques you can use to restore the softness of your washcloths.

Step 1

Start by mixing 1 cup of hot white vinegar with 1/2 cup of hot water in a bowl. This solution will dissolve any detergent residue that has built up on the washcloth fibers.

Step 2

Next, place the stiff washcloths in the bowl of hot vinegar solution. Make sure to wear cleaning gloves to protect your hands. Allow the washcloths to soak in the solution overnight.

Step 3

After soaking, remove the washcloths from the vinegar solution and transfer them to the washing machine. Set the machine to the recommended water temperature indicated on the washcloths’ care labels. Do not add any laundry detergent to the wash.

Step 4

Allow the washing machine to complete its cycles. During the rinse cycle, add 1 cup of room temperature white vinegar to further soften the washcloths.

Step 5

Once the cycles are finished, remove the washcloths from the machine. For added softness, tumble dry them in the clothes dryer.

Leave a Comment