My Grandmother washed new bath towels

I bought three new bath towels and five washcloths yesterday when I went shopping. The towels brought back memories of my Grandmother Newland and her new bath towel ritual. Grandma always washed new bath towels and washcloths before using them.

I know Grandma had a logical reason for doing this, I simply cannot remember what it was. At the time, the reason did not matter to me. I enjoyed helping Grandma with the laundry. I especially enjoyed hanging the cloths outside on the line.

New cotton towels
Washed and hung of the clothesline
Waiting for our use