Sizing is a coating (starch, PVA, or other agents) applied to warp yarns before weaving, providing strength and smoothness for the loom.
Why It's Used
Sizing helps warp yarns: - Withstand loom tension - Resist abrasion during weaving - Reduce breakage - Weave more smoothly
Without sizing, weak yarns would break during weaving.
The Problem for Towels
Sizing residue: - Coats fibres - Reduces absorbency - Makes fabric stiff - Must be removed
Removal
Sizing is removed during: - Scouring: Industrial finishing - First washes: Home laundering
New towels that don't absorb often still have sizing residue.
Desizing
Industrial desizing uses: - Enzymes (for starch-based sizing) - Hot water - Detergents
Proper desizing is part of quality finishing.
Home Solution
If new towels don't absorb: - Wash 2-3 times before use - Hot water helps dissolve sizing - Vinegar aids removal - Skip fabric softener
See: Why Don't New Towels Absorb?
Related Terms
- Scouring - Removes sizing
- Finishing - Processing stage
- Absorbency - Affected by sizing