While many of us will never use the towels at Buckingham Palace, that doesn’t mean that we can’t have our own reach the same luxurious quality. Speaking to Plumbworld Anne Simmons, 57, from Berkshire, who worked in Buckingham Palace for many years as part of the household staff, has shared the royal-approved method that will ensure their towels remain fluffy, absorbent, and pristine for years.
Anne revealed that keeping towels fluffy and fresh is all about avoiding common washing mistakes and using a precise drying technique. Unlike many households, where towels are overloaded with detergent or fabric softeners, the Royal Household takes a minimalist approach to prevent buildup and stiffness. She said: “People assume adding more fabric softener makes towels softer, but in reality, it ruins the absorbency. In the palace, we never use it on towels.”
Step one: White vinegar wash – no fabric softener allowed
The biggest mistake made when washing towels is overloading them with detergent and softeners, which actually coats the fibers and makes them stiff over time.
Instead of using these softeners, palace staff add half a cup of white vinegar to the wash, which removes detergent buildup and eliminates musty odours. Alongside this, white vinegar will also soften towels and prevent the growth of bacteria, keeping them fresh for much longer.
Highlighting the benefits of this household staple, Anne said: “It’s a trick passed down through the years, and it works better than anything store-bought.”
Step two: Shake before drying
Anne has revealed that one simple but crucial step in the royals’ towel routine is shaking them out before drying. After washing, each towel is given a firm shake to loosen fibres, which also prevents matting and helps towels stay plush and airy.
Step three: Low heat and tennis balls
Palace staff never use high heat when drying towels, as this can damage the fibres and make them rough.
Instead, the dryer is put on a low, gentle setting. Tennis balls or wool dryer balls are placed in the dryer alongside the towels as this fluffs them, prevents clumps from forming and enhances softness, all without the use of harsh chemicals.
Rather drying completely in the tumble dryer these are used until the towels are just slightly damp. They are then air-dried till dry, as this helps them retain their plushness.
Step four: Folding
The Royal Household has a strict rule on towel storage to maintain freshness and avoid that damp smell, according to Anne, who explains: “It’s a tiny detail, but it makes a difference. Palace towels always smell fresh, and that’s why.”
Revealing this folding method, Anne shares that they start by ensuring that towels are never stacked while still warm from the dryer, as this traps moisture. Instead, they are air-cooled before folding and stored in a well-ventilated linen closet.
Following this, when the towels are put away, lavender sachets or cedar blocks are placed between towel stacks to keep them smelling clean and luxurious.
