Ah, the joys of a beach day! Sunshine, waves, and…sand. Yes, sand. That seemingly inescapable companion that finds its way everywhere, including clinging stubbornly to your once-pristine beach towel.
But fear not. The term “sand-free” on some beach towels offers a glimmer of hope.
But what exactly does it mean?
Let’s delve into the science behind this intriguing feature and see if it truly lives up to its name.
There are actually different approaches manufacturers might take:
- Fibre modifications: Some towels use specially treated fibres. These fibres might be smoother, have a repellent coating, or use a specific blend (with plenty of polyamide, usually) that makes it harder for sand to grip.
They are certainly not good for the environment through production, or their end-of-life. That’s for sure. - Silicone or similar coatings: Some towels have a thin, sand-repellent coating applied to the surface. This coating creates a barrier that sand struggles to stick to.
Again, terrible for the environment – and they feel terrible, too. - Tightly woven fabrics: Densely woven fabrics like our waffle microfibre naturally resists sand penetration. This is because the gaps between fibres are smaller, making it harder for sand particles to get in.
Our materials go through a full heat treatment to minimise micro-plastics and ensure they are as durable as possible.
Reality Check: Sand-Free, Not Sand-Proof
It’s important to manage expectations. No towel is truly “sand-free” in the absolute sense. Sand can still find its way onto the surface, especially with aggressive digging or windy conditions. However, these technologies can significantly reduce sand adherence and make shaking it off much easier.
Choosing the Right “Sand-Free” Towel:
Don’t worry. We’re not going to try to sell you on our towels.
Check them out for yourself, and see why they really are better than the rest!