What Is Terry Cloth

Are you looking for a versatile fabric that can be used for everything from clothing to home decor?

My project 1 46
Terry cloth fabric

Terry cloth might be just what you need! This durable fabric is perfect for various projects, and it’s easy to care for too.

Learn more about it and how to make the most of this fabulous fabric.

What is Terry Cloth Fabric

Terry cloth fabric is a type of textile that is made from cotton or linen.

It has a distinctively textured surface, which can be looped or flat.

The fabric is known for its absorbency and durability, making it a popular choice for towels, robes, and other household items.

There are many benefits of using it:

  • The fabric is highly absorbent, so it is ideal for use in towels and other items that need to soak up moisture.
  • It is also very durable and will last longer than other fabrics.
  • The fabric is also easy to care for, as it can be machine washed and tumble-dried on a low setting.

What Different Types of Terry Cloth Fabric are Available?

Terry cloth is a fabric known for its looped and fluffy texture.

This versatile fabric can be used for various applications owing to its excellent absorbency and durability.

Cotton Terry Cloth

Cotton terry cloth is an incredibly versatile, absorbent, and durable fabric that has become a staple in modern life.

Its looped structure makes it incredibly absorbent and suitable for towels, bathrobes, and other similar applications.

This fabric can easily be washed and dried without special care, providing comfort and practicality in various personal and commercial applications.

Cotton Terry Cloth
Cotton terry cloth

Bamboo terry cloth

Bamboo terry cloth is a widely sought-after textile material known for its absorbent and soft qualities.

Crafted from bamboo fibers, it’s both sustainable and eco-friendly. Due to its moisture-wicking ability, it finds everyday use in towels, bathrobes, and other fabrics that come into contact with water.

Due to its durability when exposed to frequent washing cycles, it has become an increasingly popular option among those seeking natural materials in their homes and clothing, providing homeowners with an eco-friendly opportunity that meets their comfort demands simultaneously.

Bamboo terry cloth
Bamboo terry cloth

Linen Terry Cloth

Linen terry cloth is a unique combination of linen and cotton fabric that’s comfortable and versatile.

Thanks to its combination of materials, they have superior strength and durability that can withstand regular usage.

It stands out from regular towels due to its subtle texture, which promotes better absorption and fast drying times.

Its lightweight nature makes it ideal for taking on the go, such as taking it to the gym or packing for a weekend getaway.

It is functional and fashionable, making it a perfect addition to any bathroom collection.

With its eco-friendly production process and superior materials, linen terry cloth is ideal for those who value sustainability and want a product that will last for years.

Linen Terry Cloth
Linen terry cloth

French Terry Cloth

French Terry fabric is a widely-used type of knit fabric that’s soft, comfortable, and breathable.

Because it’s knit, there are loops of yarn inside and smooth flat stitches on the outside.

French Terry fabrics make great clothing or home textiles choices due to their easy care requirements and soft feel.

This makes the fabric ideal for activewear, loungewear, and athleisure wear, as it absorbs sweat and keeps users dry.

Its warmth and cozy properties make it ideal for hoodies, sweatshirts, and sweatpants.

French Terry fabric is not just limited to casual wear; it can also be found in home textiles like curtains and blankets.

French Terry Fabric is an incredibly versatile and comfortable material used for many types of clothing and home textiles.

French Terry Cloth
French terry cloth

Knit Terry Cloth

Knit Terry cloth is a widely used fabric in the textile industry.

Crafted from cotton, it features loops on either one or both sides for an ultra-plush and absorbent appearance.

These loops can be cut away on one side to leave only loops on the opposite side.

It is often used for bathrobes, towels, and sportswear due to its durability, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties.

Its ease of care and maintenance make it a go-to fabric in institutions such as hotels or hospitals.

Its soft texture and absorbency make it ideal for kitchen and bathroom uses where spills can accumulate or dishes can dry quickly.

Thanks to its versatility across various industries, knit terry cloth has proven its worth over time.

Knit Terry Cloth
Knit terry cloth

How to Care for Terry Cloth Fabric

It is durable and sturdy but must be cared for properly to maintain its quality and lifespan.

When washing this fabric, it is essential to use mild detergent and warm water.

Avoid using bleach or other harsh chemicals, which can damage the fabric.

It is also essential to avoid overloading the washing machine, as this can cause the fabric to stretch out of shape.

How Do You Dry Terry Cloth Fabric?

After washing, it should be air-dried or tumble-dried on low heat.

Again, avoid using high temperatures that can damage the fabric.

If you are line-drying the fabric, make sure to smooth out any wrinkles before they have a chance to set in.

Uses for Terry Cloth Fabric

Terry cloth fabric, featuring its distinctive looped pile on both sides, has many uses:

  • One popular application is for towels such as bath and beach towels or dish towels due to their absorbent nature, which allows them to quickly dry and clean after each use.
  • Due to its softness and comfort, it is often found in robes, slippers, and shower curtains.
  • It can also be found in the fashion industry on clothing items like sweatpants, sweatshirts, and tracksuits.
  • It is widely used in diaper production due to its gentle nature and easy washing.
  • It has found application in the automotive industry – mainly car seat covers – due to its durability and ability to withstand frequent usage.
  • Due to its gentle nature and absorbency, it is also commonly employed in the healthcare industry for items like hospital gowns and bed linens.

Its versatility and practicality make it a valuable resource across numerous industries.

Home Accessories

In addition to clothing, this fabric can be used to make home accessories such as pot holders, oven mitts, and Slipcovers. The fabric’s absorbent properties make it ideal for use in these items.

Cleaning Supplies

Because it is absorbent and durable, it is often used to make cleaning supplies such as dust rags and mops. The material can stand up to heavy use and will not tear easily.

Creative Ways to Use Terry Cloth Fabric

Terry cloth fabric can be used for a variety of crafting projects.

One widespread use is to make homemade heating pads. Sew a small square of terry cloth, fill it with rice or flaxseed, and stitch it shut. These make great gifts and can be scented with essential oils for extra relaxation.

It can also be used to make reusable dishcloths and scrubbers.

Crocheting or knitting with terry cloth yarn creates sturdy yet absorbent washcloths perfect for the kitchen or bathroom.

Quilting Projects

Adding a few squares of terry cloth to a quilt can give it an extra bit of texture and interest.

Try using different colors or patterns in each square for a patchwork look, or cut the fabric into strips and sew it onto the quilt top in a random pattern for a more whimsical design.

Quilting
Quilting

Embellishing Existing Items

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to spruce up some old towels, pillowcases, or even clothing items, try adding embellishments made from terry cloth fabric.

Cut out shapes from contrasting fabric colors and stitch them onto your item in any design you like – flowers, polka dots, geometric patterns, etc.

Use fabric scraps to create appliques or embroidery designs on plain linens.

Conclusion

Terry cloth fabric is a versatile and affordable material that has many uses.

Knowing how to care for it is essential to keep it looking its best.

There are many ways to use this fabric, from clothing items to home accessories to cleaning supplies.

Get creative and try some new projects with this versatile fabric.

Emma Kellam
Emma Kellam

I'm Emma, and I run Towels Edition, a website for fellow home goods enthusiasts who, like me, are passionate about textiles. After working in high-end retail, I was amazed by how little most people (myself included!) know about all the towel options out there.

I research and write all the content myself. Whether it's specialized towels like bar mops, Turkish cotton production methods, or comparing hair towel absorbency, I cover it. My goal is to share my knowledge and enthusiasm to help others.

Running Towels Edition allows me to constantly expand my own expertise too. I love learning about innovations in bamboo fabric or ideal bath towels. It's so rewarding to receive emails thanking me for recommendations that improved my readers' routines.

I want Towels Edition to be the ultimate online towel resource, making this overlooked necessity far more fascinating. My aim is to open people's eyes to how specialty towels can thoroughly enhance hygiene, cleaning, recreation and self-care.