The Everyday Mystery: What Are the Lines on Towels For?

Some things in life go unnoticed—until someone questions them.

Why do jeans have little studs? Why does McDonald’s Coke taste better? And now, why do towels have lines near the edges?

The Debate Goes Viral

This once-overlooked detail has sparked a heated online debate. A viral Twitter post asked, “What is the purpose of this part of a towel?” Thousands of users chimed in with theories—some humorous, others surprisingly informative.

The Theories

One witty user compared the lines to tire treads, joking, “When your towel wears down to that point, it’s time for a replacement!” The original poster added his own theory: “Maybe it’s just there to shrink and make folding impossible—so you buy another towel.”

The Real Answer: The Dobby Border

Amid the speculation, a more technical explanation emerged. Several users pointed out that the lines are part of a dobby weave—a design element that serves multiple purposes:

• Reinforces the fabric to prevent fraying
• Adds a decorative touch
• Maintains structure to keep towels from curling
• Makes folding easier due to its tighter weave

Supporting this, towel wholesaler Towel Hub confirmed to The New York Post: “Known as a dobby border, this woven strip helps prevent fraying, improves absorbency, and gives towels a professional, polished look.”

An Alternative Explanation

Still skeptical? A Reddit user offered another take: “It’s for hanging on a clothesline without leaving peg marks.”

So, whether you believe in the tire tread theory or the dobby border, at least now, you have an answer!