William Ernest Woods – The humble tea towel

In 1895, when William Ernest Woods opened his shop his aim was to build a reputation for selling only the finest quality household linens available. From sheets and blankets to dusters and floor cloths only the best were good enough to be put on the shelves of his Harrogate shop. If he could not find an item to meet his exacting standards, he would find a manufacturer to make it for him.

The tea towel, although humble, is worthy of his label. Completely frustrated by the lack of quality and usefulness of available kitchen tea towels, he went to Ireland to locate a manufacturer capable of creating a dishcloth he deisgned. It is highly absorbent, durable and long-term to maintain its whiteness. Finally satisfied that everything necessary had been done, he ordered an initial amount and that the was the beginning of the popular dishtowel.

When customers throughout Yorkshire realised the fine quality of their linen dishcloth, it became a kitchen essential in many homes. Today the company sells thousands of these highly absorbent linen tea towels to loyal customer both at home and abroad, even 100 years aog to the day. They are shipped worldwide to clients who report they can’t find anything comparable to this dishcloth’s quality.

Their linen dishcloth is far more absorbent than cotton so mops up spills and splashes leaving work tops dry and smear free. It will last for everal months, maintaining its original whiteness throughout, and can be washed at a high temperature if required. Thousands of satisfied customers throughout the world have used their linen dishcloths for generations. So if you’ve not taken the plunge yet, why not discover the benefits of the best dishcloth in the world in this, it’s centenary year.

White cotton lace and a branded ribbon loop are made from 100% cotton and are vintage tea towels that are machine washable. You will never want to use anything else or be disappointed!