Why are the edges of Tenugui left unsewn?

Generally, the left and right edges of a tenugui are not sewn but left cut, so they may start to fray from the edges with use. This is not a defect. In fact, there are good reasons for this design. Below, we explain why the edges of a tenugui are left unsewn and what you can do if you are concerned about fraying.

1. Easier to Dry
Tenugui, like towels, are often used daily to wipe wet hands, objects, or sweat, and they absorb water multiple times throughout the day.
If the edges of the tenugui were folded and sewn to prevent fraying, those sections would become less breathable and harder to dry. To ensure quick drying and convenience, the edges are left uncut.

 2. Hygienic Use 

When the edges of a tenugui are sewn, water can accumulate in the folded seams, causing them to dry more slowly. This can create conditions conducive to mold and bacteria growth.
While tenugui are now used for various purposes, such as wrapping items or as interior decorations, their primary function remains wiping away water, sweat, and dust. To keep tenugui hygienic for as long as possible, it’s best to leave the edges unsewn.

3. Easy to Tear by Hand 

In situations where you need to treat injuries, such as stopping bleeding or immobilizing a body part, the unsewn edges allow you to easily tear the fabric by hand, making tenugui useful for first aid.
Since the Edo period, when tenugui became popular, they have been more than just tools for wiping dirt or sweat. They’ve also served various practical purposes, including first aid. For example, in the past, tenugui were used to secure broken bones with a splint or to fix a broken thong on geta (traditional Japanese footwear). The unsewn edges made them versatile and easy to use in emergencies.

This practice stems from the need to use towels hygienically in Japan’s hot and humid climate. Additionally, in times when medical facilities were less advanced, tenugui served as readily available and clean tools for first aid, reflecting the practical wisdom of daily life.

What to Do About Frayed Threads?

When using or washing your tenugui, you may notice frayed threads. Don’t worry—this is easy to manage, and the fraying will naturally stop over time.

Fraying typically occurs in the horizontal threads of the fabric, not the vertical ones that form the fringe. Instead of cutting the fringe (vertical threads), focus on trimming the frayed horizontal threads to tidy them. If the fraying becomes extensive, you can cut the horizontal threads to match the length of the fringe. Once the fringe reaches about 5 mm in length, fraying will stop naturally. Avoid cutting the fringe itself, as doing so may lead to further fraying of the horizontal threads. Keeping the vertical threads intact helps prevent this.

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