Most of us don’t take the time to contemplate every detail of our – but there’s one common feature that has a crucial function few people know about.

If you own several , you will probably have noticed that many share a similar design feature in common: a hard, indented stripe that runs along the edge of a towel. Of course, you may have assumed that it’s purely decorative. However, have revealed that this deliberate weaving technique has a direct impact on how a towel works and how long it lasts.

So, the next time you go towel shopping, make sure to be on the lookout for these features. Otherwise, you may be picking up a product that doesn't work as well as you want it to.

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According to household experts from , one of the key reasons why towels have this feature is that it increases their absorbency. They write: “The lines are often created using a weaving technique that increases the surface area of the towel, allowing it to soak up more water.”

It’s also a great way to help soaked towels air out faster. Cooktop Cove add that the lines can help the fabric dry faster, as they “create channels that facilitate air flow.”

A third benefit is that they also provide a visual cue for hanging and folding. This helps to ensure that the towel holds its shape and lasts as long as possible.

Of course, absorbency is just one important element of a great towel. Towels that contain tread lines, which are raised lines of fabric, can also increase its longevity.

Cooktop Cove explain: “These lines are typically woven into the fabric using a technique that reinforces the structure of the towel, preventing it from fraying or losing its shape after repeated use and washing.”

They also help to maintain the thickness of the towel. This is because it prevents fraying and the towel unravelling, which can negatively impact its texture and fullness.

Another technique that you’ve probably observed is the dobby weave. This sewing method creates small, geometric patterns on the towel’s fabric.

The main purpose of this is to allow the towel to retain its structure, even after repeated uses. The pattern’s tightness and stability helps prevent stretching and distortion.

You may have also noticed hard borders at the edge of your towel. These are known as dobby borders and they are sewn specifically to add strength to the frame by preventing fraying and unravelling.