Warp-knitted terry: soft yet durable

Production: how warp-knitted terry is made

Terry towelling is produced on special looms in order to create looped fabric from smooth threads. Unlike other types of terry towelling, warp-knitted terry does not have the typical loops on both sides of the fabric, but only on one. On the other side, instead of loops, there are wale-like columns of stitches, similar to knitted fabrics.

Warp-knitted terry is produced on warp knitting machines. Unlike other knitted fabrics, this method does not form one stitch after another, but many stitches at the same time, and the thread also runs vertically. In addition, the stitches lie slightly at an angle. The machines are capable of working very finely, producing closely knitted fabrics. Strictly speaking, terry products made from warp-knitted terry are therefore not woven fabrics, but knitted fabrics.

These are the properties of warp-knitted terry products

Compared with woven terry qualities, warp-knitted terry is relatively new and combines all the positive characteristics of terry products: cloths made from warp-knitted terry have a light massaging effect, yet are soft and pleasant to the touch. In addition, the robust yarn makes them durable when cared for properly and allows them to retain their good absorbency.

Warp-knitted terry is not made from pure cotton; other materials are usually incorporated as well, above all polyester. Other terry qualities tend to be rather inflexible because of their special weaving method, whereas knitted fabrics are slightly more elastic owing to their different method of production.

Caring for warp-knitted terry correctly

Terry products should always be washed before first use, as this makes the surface denser. White terry items are best washed with a biological detergent, while coloured terry is best washed with a mild detergent at a temperature of 60°C. Fabric conditioner can be used, but is not really necessary and should never be overdosed, otherwise the warp-knitted terry products lose their absorbency and fluff may form. Warp-knitted terry dries best in a tumble dryer, although a normal clothes airer is also fine. Terry should simply not be placed on a radiator, as the loops will otherwise become hard and the material brittle.

What else is worth knowing

Warp-knitted terry fabrics are not only found in the bathroom, but increasingly at the beach as well: terry dresses or shorts are popular with bathers because they dry quickly while also being durable and fashionable. Cosy pyjamas are also often made from warp-knitted terry.