What I do for applique is heavily starch the background for stability; then I don't need to use a stabilizer underneath. Haven't tried it on towels, but I think it would be worth a try (and inexpensive).
Here's my method. Mix a 1:1 solution of Sta-Flo liquid laundry starch and water. "Paint" the solution on with a large wall-painting brush until the fabric is saturated. Toss in dryer. Iron with steam.
Other types of starch could be substituted as long as it makes for a very heavy starching.