Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of dyes do you use?
At TOWL, we use only natural or "low-impact" reactive dyes. Reactive dyes form a chemical bond between the fiber and the color. Low impact means that the absorption rate in the bonding process between the fibers and the color is higher, thereby reducing the amount of water and heat used, which in turn produces less wastewater. Natural dyes are derived from plant or mineral materials but are combined with modern dye technology to produce stable colors.
What are your certifications and what do they mean?
TOWL products are certified by the Swiss organization Oeko-Tex. Our products receive the class I certification, which is the highest safety standard for final products. This certification ensures that our products are free from harmful chemicals or substances. Some TOWL products also carry a GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certification. GOTS is recognized as the leading processing standard for textiles made from organic fibers worldwide. It ensures strict compliance with environmental standards throughout the production process.
May I return a TOWL product?
Yes, we want you to be completely satisfied with every purchase you make from TOWL. Bear in mind we are still a growing business, so if you're just ordering to "try a color" or because you're curious, it impact us, unlike Amazon :) If you're not sure of the color, we can send you a swatch, just email us at info@wisetowl.com. All that said, if the product you ordered does not meet your expectations, of course you may return it within 30 days of purchase. We will exchange your purchase for a different style, size or color, or issue a full refund.
What is fair trade and why is it important?
The use of Fair Trade organic cotton ensures that farmers or producers of organic cotton will be treated fairly in the marketplace. It establishes minimum price guarantees that always cover the cost of sustainable production. Prices set for Fair Trade organic cotton are 20% higher than non-Fair Trade. In addition, a small premium is paid and then invested back into the villages and towns of producers in the form of education, health services, processing equipment, and loans to members. With Fair Trade, women and men are paid equally and child labor is prohibited.
The colors are so beautiful. Will they fade? Are they colorfast?
While our products and dyes are stable, they are not colorfast against some harsh chemicals. Bleaching agents such as hydrogen peroxide, benzoyl peroxide, teeth whiteners, some toothpastes, and chlorine bleach may cause your towels to fade or discolor. You might sometimes notice a slight discrepancy in colors owing to the fact they are natural and made small batch!
Will my towels stain?
Most stains and oils are easily lifted out of your towels in the wash using mild detergent. Pre-wash treatments are not necessary. However, there are some substances that contain natural dyes such as black tea, tabasco sauce, and some concentrated berry juices such as cranberry or pomegranate that will permanently dye your towels.
These towels are so soft, how can they possibly dry me off? I don't like towels that just smear the water around.
It is an inherent characteristic of the bamboo in the TOWL fiber to wick water away from your skin much faster and more completely than ordinary cotton.
Where do you ship?
We ship free to the Continental US. We also offer shipping to Hawaii and Alaska, as well as Canada and Mexico for a fee of $30 to handle duties and/or warehouse handling. Other international shipping destinations are not offered at this time.