Terry Cloth Fabric - Absorbent Loop Weave | Fabric Guide
Terry cloth (often incorrectly called toweling) is a textile fabric that gets a characteristic enlarged surface through additional loop threads. While true terry is a special weave with loops on both sides, conventional terrycloth is usually a smoother effect-yarn fabric. It is characterized mainly by its high absorbency and pleasantly fluffy feel.
Properties of Terry Cloth
- High absorbency: The loops enlarge the surface and absorb a lot of moisture
- Heat-retaining: The volume effectively insulates body heat
- Skin-friendly: Usually made of cotton, soft and breathable
- Durable: The fabric is very robust and long-lasting
- Massage effect: The loop structure has a gently stimulating effect on the skin
Uses for Terry Cloth
Towels: The classic for bathroom and kitchen
Bathrobes: Ideal for sauna and wellness
Washcloths: Gentle cleansing textiles for the face
Bibs: Absorbent everyday helpers for babies and toddlers
Beach towels: Robust mats for sand and water
Care Instructions
1 Wash temperature: Usually washable at 60 degrees to kill germs
2 Use dryer: The fabric becomes especially soft and fluffy in the tumble dryer
3 No fabric softener: Coats the fibers like a film and reduces absorbency
4 Fill drum properly: To avoid pulled threads from friction against the drum
Sewing Tips for Terry Cloth
Pre-wash: Fabric shrinks significantly on first wash (up to 10 percent)
Dust management: Cut edges shed heavily, keep a vacuum ready when cutting
Walking foot: Makes sewing the thick, voluminous fabric layers easier without shifting
Terry Cloth at Stoffmarkt
The next fabric market is in Freiburg on June 20, 2026.
Visit one of our fabric markets and discover a wide selection of quality fabrics at great prices.