I need something black and white that was classy looking. These towels are soft except where the white is which is rather stiff even after washing. I washed them separately before use in cold water but I was glad I used a "color catcher" sheet in the wash because it came out dark gray. If I hadn't used one of those sheets, it may have grayed the white area. Also the dryer vent was filled with black lint 1/2 inch thick which may have been increased because I washed anther new black towel with these. I don't know which black color bled but I suspect both. Those color catcher sheets are fabulous! The towels do look nice but the stiff edge is not obsorbent. They are mainly attractive in our guest bath.