Those strips on your towels have a real purpose… and you might not have known it.

 

We’ve all seen it before, that famous embroidered line on our bath towels. Discreet yet undeniably present, it’s often located at one end, like a textile signature we no longer even question. But what if we told you it’s not just there for decoration? Yes, this mysterious band actually has a very specific function—and it might surprise you.
A towel isn’t just… a towel

When choosing a bath towel, we think about its softness, thickness, and ability to absorb water quickly. But we rarely consider that small detail: the woven border, also known as the “dobby border.” And yet, it’s this band that makes all the difference between a towel that lasts… and one that tears after just a few washes.

The role of the “dobby border”: much more than a decorative element]

According to home linen specialists, particularly those at the American company Towel Hub, the dobby border is far from being a mere ornament. This particular weave, generally located 5 or 10 cm from the edge, fulfills several essential functions:

It prevents the fabric from fraying: by interrupting the continuous terry cloth, this border stabilizes the fibers and limits wear and tear over time.
It reinforces the towel’s structure: it acts like a support band, helping the towel maintain its shape even after numerous washes.
It makes folding easier: this band creates a more rigid area that allows for a neat and even fold, ideal for tidy storage in your linen closet.
A practical and stylish touch.
In addition to being useful, this famous border adds real visual value. Some are discreet and tone-on-tone, while others feature attractive patterns or a contrasting weave. They give the towel a more elegant, almost “hotel-like” look, while still fulfilling their reinforcing role.

In other words, if your towel always seems straight, easy to fold, and doesn’t lose its shape despite washing, it’s probably thanks to its dobby border.

One detail that changes everything in the long run

Quality is in the details. A well-designed border, made with a dense weave and sturdy finishes, extends the life of your bath linens. It prevents frayed edges, sagging fabric, and puckered corners.

And for the more discerning, know that a good dobby border does not absorb water as well as terry cloth, but it dries quickly — which limits unpleasant odors.

Remember this for your next purchase:
The next time you buy a sanitary napkin, take a look at that famous band. Is it well-stitched? Dense? Pleasant to the touch? This simple little detail can tell you a lot about the overall quality of the product. A well-made sanitary napkin is also a sanitary napkin that lasts