A simple photo recently sparked a surprisingly lively debate across social media: what’s the deal with that raised line near the end of bath towels? It all began when someone posted a close-up image of a towel with the caption, “What’s this line for?” Within hours, the internet lit up with speculation, from humorous guesses to clever theories. Some dubbed it the “face-to-butt divider,” while others joked about “racing stripes for faster drying.”
But behind the laughs is a real, practical answer—one that many people didn’t know.
That line is known as a dobby border, and it’s much more than a decorative touch. Towel manufacturers and textile experts explain that it plays an important role in both durability and function.
A dobby border is a woven strip usually located near both ends of a towel. Its main purpose is to reinforce the towel’s structure and help prevent fraying after repeated use and washing. By strengthening the edges, it ensures the towel maintains its shape and quality over time.
While the dobby border often features subtle designs or patterns for visual appeal, its functional benefits are what make it so valuable. It prevents bunching at the ends, allows for better folding, and helps the towel hang neatly—whether on a hook, bar, or in your linen closet.
According to textile specialists from Towel Hub, absorbency and durability are two of the most important qualities in a good towel. The dobby border helps strike that balance, keeping the towel soft and absorbent while also supporting long-term use.
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