Thanks for all the responses. I think my problem may have been a combination of things: on the verge of using too much product (especially on the inside), using the wrong side when flipping the towel and possibly contaminating the towel with glass sealer. Washed the dirty towels and have them stored with the new towels in clear plastic shoe boxes - bet you can't guess whose closet I got those from. Five plastic boxes, four types of towels and some miscellaneous items, math worked for me and besides it helps keep things organized...
Will try cleaning the glass again this weekend and provide an update. Thanks again for all the tips.