Tea towel

Tea Towel

A tea towel or dish towel (American English), also known as a dish cloth (Canadian English, British English), is a cloth which is used for the specific purpose of drying dishes and cutlery after they have been washed. In addition, it can also be used for other kitchen tasks such as wiping surfaces or covering dough while it proves.

History

The tea towel has its origins in the early 18th century in England. It was originally used by the lady of the house in her tea service. She would use it to dry her precious and expensive items such as tea pots, tea cups and cutlery. Over time, the use of the tea towel has evolved and it has become an essential item in kitchens around the world.

Materials and Design

Tea towels are made from a variety of materials including cotton, linen, terrycloth, or a combination of these. The choice of material can depend on the specific use of the tea towel. For example, linen is particularly good for drying dishes without leaving streaks or fluff because it is more absorbent.

The design of tea towels can vary greatly. Some are plain and simple, while others feature patterns, pictures or slogans. They can also be a popular souvenir or gift item, often featuring illustrations or phrases that are indicative of a particular location or culture.

Uses

While the primary use of a tea towel is for drying dishes, it has many other uses in the kitchen and beyond. It can be used to grip hot pans or dishes, to cover food in the microwave, to keep food warm before serving, or even as a makeshift oven mitt. In addition, it can be used for more creative purposes such as wrapping gifts or making crafts.

See Also

• Kitchen towel
• Hand towel
• Paper towel