When trying to find a towel that’s best for you, it’s best to consider its level of absorbency, softness, and durability.
Towel Fabrics
When trying to find a towel that’s best for you, it’s best to consider its level of absorbency, softness, and durability.
Cotton
Cotton towels are the most common choice when looking for new bath towels. This material is ultra-soft and highly absorbent that keeps its shape after countless washes. If you’re looking for an everyday towel that is durable enough to handle wear and tear, then 100-percent Cotton towels are a safe bet. Best of all, this material is easy to find at a low cost!
Combed Cotton
Combed Cotton is a type of Cotton that has gone through a secondary process that combs through the Cotton fibers through a series of fine brushes to remove short fibers and impurities. This creates a stronger, softer, and more durable towel fabric that you’ll be reaching for every time you step out of the shower.
Egyptian Cotton
Egyptian Cotton towels are another fan-favorite when it comes to buying bath towels. Unlike Cotton towels, the longer fibers of Egyptian Cotton work to soak up water fast while providing incredible softness and long-lasting durability. If you’re looking to transform your master or guest bath into your very own personal spa, then Egyptian Cotton towels are a must!
Turkish Cotton
Similar to Egyptian Cotton, Turkish Cotton towels also have longer, more dense thread loop construction that will sop up moisture effortlessly while keeping you toasty warm as soon as you step out of the shower or bath. These ultra-plush and fluffy towels promise to be soft on your skin while being highly absorbent. This premium towel fabric boasts a thick and luxurious feel that is perfect to use when pampering yourself.
Rayon from Bamboo
Rayon from Bamboo is a natural, eco-friendly fiber that is softer and more absorbent than Cotton. Due to the natural construction, these towels are mildew-resistant and antimicrobial. Bamboo towels display a silky soft feel that are sure to give your everyday bath routine a little something special.
Towel Weight
Towel weight is measured in grams per square (GSM) to determine the density and quality of the fabric. The lower the GSM, the lighter and thinner the towel, and the higher the number, the thicker and more absorbent the towel.
300-400 GSM
Towels with a 300-400 gram towel weight are generally thinner and lightweight making them ideal when traveling or going to the gym. These towels also dry quicker compared to plush towels.
400-600 GSM
A 400-600 gram towel is considered the ideal medium towel weight that is slightly thicker and more absorbent than 300-400 gram towels. These medium-weight towels are the perfect everyday essential in your master or guest bath.
600-900 GSM
The luxurious feel of this premium towel weight won’t go unnoticed. Considered to be the densest and most absorbent, this heavy towel weight gives each towel its thick and fluffy feel while being highly absorbent to keep you toasty warm.
Yarn Construction
Now that we understand a lot of the basics of towel lingo, there are a few other key terms that you may see on many towel labels when shopping for the perfect bath towel.
Jacquard
Jacquard is a weaving process that produces a detailed pattern that is woven directly into the fabric.
Ringspun Cotton
Ringspun Cotton towels are made with long and short fibers that are twisted tightly to make the towel loops strong and smooth.
Twist
Twist refers to the number of twists the yarn has been twisted. The lower the twists, the plusher and more absorbent the towel will be, whereas a high twist results in a more durable and long-lasting towel.
Two-ply
If a towel is labeled two-ply, double the amount of yarn was used, resulting in a more durable and absorbent towel.
Towel Care
Caring for your towels is essential if you are looking to extend the life of your new bath towels. Here are a few simple tips to keep in mind next time you go and wash your towels.
Wash Before Use
It’s important to always wash your towels before using them for the first time to help improve absorbency and help set the colors to extend the life of your towels. Also, be sure to always wash your towels with like colors.
Avoid Fabric Softeners
While fabric softeners are great for your clothes, it’s not so great for your towels. Fabric softeners leave a residue behind on your towels that will reduce absorbency.
Dry on a Low Heat Setting
High heat when drying your towels can damage the Cotton fibers. To avoid this, try a lower heat setting. When you take your towels out of the dryer, always make sure they are completely dry. Even if a towel is slightly damp, it can quickly mildew.
Be Mindful of Skin Care Products
Avoid heavy contact with skin care products (especially Benzoyl Peroxide) to minimize towel spotting or bleaching.
