People are only just realising what the strip on a towel is for | Express.co.uk

We've all been there. You've been in the shower, reach for a towel from the radiator and then find yourself wondering, perhaps for the umpteenth time, why do all towels have the decorative weave added to them towards the edge?

Well, not only does this towel feature have a name, but it also has a specific purpose. It's called a dobby border and it's there to "play an essential role in ensuring the longevity, durability, and functionality of the towel", according to a blog entry on the Cotton Monk website.

Its main purpose is to strengthen the ends of the towel and to stop the towel fraying over time. This is especially important for towels which, of course, get used every day and are regularly washed. Without the border, your towel would weaken, fray and unravel, meaning it wouldn't last anywhere near as long.

It's a happy coincidence that the dobby border also adds an extra design element to your towel and gives it that refined, specially-designed look. The Direct Textile Store says: "Dobby towels utilise a dobby loom, which adds extra texture and depth to the fabric through the incorporation of small geometric patterns or motifs. This attention to detail not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the towels but also reflects the skill and craftsmanship involved in their production."

It adds: "The meticulous weaving process ensures that the fabric maintains its integrity wash after wash, resisting pilling, fraying, and fading over time. This durability not only extends the lifespan of the towels but also reduces the need for frequent replacement, making them a sustainable choice for eco-conscious consumers."

Towel manufacturer Towel Hub has also addressed the issue recently, after a question posed on social media about the purpose of the dobby border got a huge number of responses. In a blog post, they said the dobby border was there to "prevent fraying and extend lifespan", "enhance durability for commercial use", "balance the towel's structure" and even "aid in quick drying", which it does "by ensuring that moisture is evenly distributed throughout the towel’s surface".

There are several different kinds of dobby borders, according to the Cotton Monk website. Among them are:

Simple woven border: The classic design often found in everyday bath towels, these are usually found in budget-friendly and mid-range towels.

Chevron or herringbone: These feature a zigzag or chevron weave and are often seen in higher-end home towels, or maybe in spas.

Satin: These have a smooth, shiny finish and a silk-like appearance. They are found in more premium hotel and designer collections and cost more.

Sculpted or textured: These have "raised patterns that create a three-dimensional effect", says Cotton Monk, and cost more.

Jacquard: These are custom-woven with intricate designs and you'd find them in personalised or branded luxury towels. These come towards the top of the price range.

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How to choose the best towels with dobby borders

Towel manufacturer Towel Hub says you should look for high-quality materials "such as 100% cotton, Egyptian cotton, or ring-spun cotton" and consider the weave. It says: "A well-made woven strip should be tightly stitched and seamlessly integrated into the towel’s design. Loose or thin strips can weaken over time, diminishing the towel’s durability and overall lifespan. Always examine the quality of the weaving before making a bulk purchase to ensure that the towels will maintain their structure over time."