Care Guide
How to care for your textiles
A little care goes a long way. Follow these guidelines to keep your Akiko Home towels and bathmats soft, absorbent, and beautiful for years.
Cotton Towels & Bathmats
Applies to: Classic Bath Towels, Hand Towels, Face Towels, Bath Mats
Wash before first use
Wash your new towels 2–3 times before using them. This removes any manufacturing residue and helps the fibres open up for maximum softness and absorbency.
Machine wash warm
Use a gentle cycle at 40°C. Hot water can shrink fibres and weaken the weave over time. Cold water is fine for regular washes.
Use mild detergent
Use a mild, liquid detergent. Avoid powder detergents which can leave residue in the fibres. Use half the recommended amount — less is more with premium cotton.
Skip the fabric softener
Fabric softener coats cotton fibres and reduces absorbency. Instead, add ½ cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle — it naturally softens fibres and removes detergent buildup.
Tumble dry low or air dry
If using a dryer, use a low heat setting. Over-drying causes fibres to become rough. Remove while slightly damp and shake out to fluff. Air drying in shade extends the life of your towels.
Shake before folding
Give each towel a firm shake after washing to lift the loops and restore fluffiness. Fold loosely — tight folding compresses the weave.
Bamboo Textiles
Applies to: Bamboo Collection towels and accessories
Machine wash cold
Bamboo fibres are more delicate than cotton. Always use cold water (30°C or below) and a gentle cycle to preserve the silky texture.
Gentle detergent only
Use a pH-neutral, gentle detergent. Avoid bleach, enzyme-based detergents, and fabric softeners — they break down bamboo fibres.
Wash separately
Wash bamboo towels separately from rough fabrics like denim or towels with zippers. Bamboo is prone to pilling if abraded during washing.
Air dry in shade
Lay flat or hang to air dry away from direct sunlight. UV exposure can weaken bamboo fibres and fade colours. If using a dryer, use the lowest heat setting.
General Tips
Store loosely
Store towels in a ventilated space. Avoid sealing them in plastic bags which traps moisture and can cause mildew.
Rotate your towels
Using the same towels every day wears them out faster. Rotate between sets to extend their life.
Avoid bleach
Bleach weakens cotton and bamboo fibres and fades colour. For stubborn stains, try an oxygen-based stain remover instead.
Wash towels every 3–4 uses
Towels accumulate dead skin cells and bacteria. Washing every 3–4 uses keeps them hygienic and fresh-smelling.