15 best bath towels in 2026, tried and tested
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Finding the best bath towels sounds simple enough, but anyone who's emerged from a shower clutching a substandard towel that's thin, scratchy or stubbornly damp knows it's a surprisingly nuanced business. Towels sit right at the crossroads of comfort and practicality, and when you get them right, bath time instantly feels more luxurious. Get them wrong, and even the chicest bathroom loses its shine.
A good bath towel should feel indulgent, yes, but it also needs to be properly absorbent, durable and up for everyday use. That balance comes down to materials and build. Cotton towels remain the gold standard, with everything from Turkish cotton towels to luxury Egyptian cotton bath towels offering different takes on softness and strength. Supima cotton and combed cotton promise longer fibres and fewer snags, while zero-twist and hydrocotton constructions dial up both fluffiness and quick-drying performance.
And if you are weighing up GSM, remember it simply means grams per square metre. Higher numbers tend to signal heavyweight, plush towels, while a lighter GSM often suits smaller bathrooms where you don't have the hanging space for a full bale.
- Our full reviews.
- How we test bath towels
- Why you can trust us
- What to look for in a towel
- How often should you buy new towels?
- Do towels get more absorbent after washing?
- Is it normal for new towels to shed?
- How often should you wash bath towels?
- How do you keep towels soft?
- Which material bath towel is best?
- What size bath towels should I buy?
Size matters too. Alongside classic bath towels, many of us are upgrading to a generous bath sheet or even a supersized bath sheet for wraparound, spa-like cocooning. Coordinating hand towels, a face towel or face cloth, guest towel and washcloths brings hotel-level polish, especially when paired with bath mats in a matching palette. White towels still reign for a five-star hotel feel, but striped towel designs and waffle towels offer a softer, more relaxed look.
Here, our testers paid close attention to how each towel behaved after repeat spins through the washing machine and tumble dryer. Fraying, snags and loss of softness were all red flags, as was reliance on fabric softener or fabric conditioner to feel decent. The best quality towels stayed super soft, super absorbent and high-quality, often helped by being Oeko-Tex certified or meeting Oeko-Tex Standard 100.
From best budget buys from Dusk and Dunelm to luxe favourites from Christy, The White Company and Soho Home, we've covered everything from bathroom towels for busy households to luxury bath towels with a truly luxurious feel. Whether you want quick-drying waffle weave for small spaces or plush towels that channel a luxury hotel, these are the bath towels worth making space for on the rail.
Meet the expert:
| Robert Lancaster-Gaye | Co-founder of Tielle. |
|---|
How we test bath towels
At Glamour, we’re all about giving our readers honest, independent, and utterly trustworthy reviews. That means recommending not just the prettiest bath towels, but the ones that actually deliver on comfort, quality, and everyday practicality.
Each bath towel in this edit has been tested for quality, absorbency, size options, drying time and pre- and post-wash softness before being scored out of 10.
Our testers looked out for signs of wear, pilling, and snags to ensure we outlined any drawbacks. The result? A selection of high-quality bathroom towels to suit everyone's needs from hotel-style towels to towels suitable for children.
Why you can trust us
Our shopping guides are researched and written by experienced editors who test products first hand. We've spent months comparing materials, GSM weights, absorbency, durability, and value for money, and we have even consulted textile experts where needed to understand what really makes a towel worth your investment. We also spend time analysing verified customer reviews before including any product in our round-ups. Most importantly? We only feature bath towels we genuinely rate, if a product hasn't scored 7/10 or above in our tests you won't see it featured here.
After more interiors content? Head this way for beach towels, bath trays and bath mats – and over here for the best duvet and best mattresses for your best night’s kip yet.
For more from Glamour UK's Commerce Writer Mayola Fernandes, follow her on Instagram @mayolafernandess.
Ahead, the best bath towels of 2026.
- Captured by Chrissie Moncrieffe (@chrissiemilan) at Buckle Street Studios by Locke.
Dusk Monaco Supreme Cotton Collection
Why we love it: Dusk reigns supreme for luxurious bed sheets without the luxury price tag, and their bath towels are just as good. These Monaco Supreme Cotton bath towels start at just £1 (!) for the face cloth – but there's also a hand towel, bath towel and bath sheet in the collection. They have ribbed detailing which helps you dry more quickly, and they're tumble-dry safe at a low temperature.
I tried out the bath sheet (once you switch from a standard towel size, you'll never go back) and a matching face cloth felt essential. Although the towels arrived in a beautifully fluffy state, they weren't the most absorbent at first. However, after a single wash, despite losing some of their initial softness, their absorbency significantly improved. They’re a super affordable choice – and if you’re planning to refresh your whole collection, you can grab the complete 6-piece bundle for just £30.
Dusk offers clear care instructions on its website, making maintenance of the towels simple. The towels can be machine-washed at 30-40ºC and are safe to tumble dry at a low temperature.
Specifications:
- Material: 100% cotton.
- GSM: 500 GSM.
- Sizes: Face Cloth 30 x 30cm, Hand Towel 50 x 90cm, Bath Towel 70 x 130cm, Bath Sheet 100 x 150cm.
- Colourways available: Light grey, charcoal, white.
- Tested by: Hattie Cotmore, Freelancer.
Save when you shop for the best bath towels with these Dusk promo codes.
OUR RATING: 9/10Pros & ConsPros- Affordable price point.
- Stylish ribbed texture enhances bathroom decor.
- Three colours available.
Cons- Not the most absorbent.
The White Company Hydrocotton Towels
Why we love it: Often enough, super soft towels go hand in hand with the same ones which won't air dry no matter how long you hang them out for. Not these towels. Made in Turkey – where only the best towels are made – The White Company's hydrocotton bath towel set is fast drying and a top pick for buyers aiming to reduce their energy consumption in terms of radiators and/or tumble drying.
Crafted from 100% cotton, they are one of the brand's all-time bestsellers. Dreamy in a contemporary home, each towel is made using innovative "low twist" technology, which basically makes them insanely fast-drying, while remaining super fluffy.
After testing them, I found both the bath towel and bath sheet to be luxuriously soft and wonderfully fluffy – perfect for wrapping up in after a bath. They held up well in the wash and dried significantly faster than any other towels I've tried. If you're after a cohesive look in your bathroom, there are matching bath mats available in the same neutral colourways, too.
Specifications:
- Material: 100% cotton.
- GSM: 500 GSM.
- Sizes: Face Cloth 30cm x 30cm, Hand Towel 50cm x 90cm, Bath Towel 70cm x 125cm, Bath Sheet 100cm x 150cm and Super Jumbo 115cm x 180cm.
- Colourways available: Pearl grey, white, soft grey, oatmeal, slate.
- Tested by: Neamh Randall, Commerce Picture Editor.
OUR RATING: 10/10Pros & ConsPros- Luxuriously soft and plush.
- Hydrocotton technology makes them fast to dry.
- High-quality fabric ensures long-lasting use.
Cons- Nothing to note.
- Captured by Chrissie Moncrieffe (@chrissiemilan) at Buckle Street Studios by Locke.
Why we love it: With a gorgeous dressing gown-esque waffle weave, these textured towels from Heal’s will bring the luxurious feel of the spa into the heart of your home, and what’s more, for such a high-end towel, we’re reeling at the retailer’s current 50% reductions.
Available in your choice of white, charcoal, red, pink, blue and green towel variations, these lightweight towels will maintain their shape and feel even after washing with detergent, softener, etc., and they’re 10x less likely to shed lint and fluff than loop/pile towels.
I tested Heal's White Waffle bath towels for six months and loved the spa-like vibe they brought to my bathroom, whether draped neatly on my heated rail or wrapped around me after a shower. I also appreciated that there are three different sizes to choose from, the largest of which was *huge* and covered me from head to toe. The towels feel lovely and lightweight – and remained just as absorbent post-bathe. They washed really well, too, which was an added bonus.
Specifications:
- Material: 100% fine, ring-spun Turkish cotton.
- GSM: 275 GSM.
- Size: Hand Towel 50 x 100cm, Bath Towel 70 x 140 cm, Bath Sheet 100 x 160 cm.
- Colourways available: White, charcoal, red clay, putty pink, sea blue, green.
- Tested by: Sophie Cockett, Senior European Commerce Editor.
OUR RATING: 10/10Pros & ConsPros- The textured waffle weave adds a contemporary look.
- Comfortable and gentle on the skin.
- Effectively soaks up moisture after a bath or shower.
Cons- You won’t be able to buy these as a three piece towel set, but rather individually.
Why we love it: TBCo’s Mix & Match set feels like a playful splash of personality for the bathroom. We love the pink and blue striped iteration (complete with contrasting trims that tie the whole set in beautifully). The bold stripes and little checkerboard trim (a big tick for both trends) give the towels a quirky edge that just makes your daily routine feel more joyful.
I put the whole set to the test and these were so soft and fluffy, quick drying, and totally luxurious in feel. Despite frequent washes, there’s no sign of fading or fraying — impressive durability that matches TBCo’s B Corp promise of sustainable, quality design.
If you're after towels that combine vibrant cottagecore charm with real substance — and want the freedom to customise your colour story — this set puts the fun into functional.
Specifications:
- Material: 100% cotton terry.
- GSM: Not specified.
- Sizes: Hand Towel 50cm x 70cm, Bath Towel 70cm x 140cm, Bath Sheet 100cm x 160cm.
- Colourways available: Pink, blue.
- Tested by: Ali Howard, Freelance Writer.
OUR RATING: 9/10Pros & ConsPros- Bold, playful design.
- Soft and absorbent cotton terry.
- B Corp certified.
Cons- Limited colour options.
- On the pricier side for single towels.
The White Company Luxury Egyptian Cotton Towels
Why we love it: Neutral tones in the bathroom will forever be in our homeware good books at GLAMOUR. For us, calm is muted, a super high GSM (700, to be precise) and available in an extensive range of sizes for a full and towering aesthetic towel bale.
If it's a thick bath towel you're after, you get what you pay for with The White Company. Their luxury Egyptian cotton bath towels are some of the most popular bath sheets in this edit, and our favourites overall. They're super chunky and made from twisted Egyptian cotton terry for an extra indulgent softness. They're finished with a simple, single border to prevent fraying – and they last for years.
It took a few washes for them to reach the promised level of softness, a point echoed by some reviewers. However, once they softened, they’ve maintained their quality consistently for nearly six months. While there aren't many colours to choose from, if you have a minimalist style, then they give off all the fancy hotel vibes.
Specifications:
- Material: Twisted Egyptian cotton Terry.
- GSM: 700 GSM.
- Sizes: Face Cloth 30cm x 30cm, Hand Towel 50cm x 90cm, Bath Towel 70cm x 125cm, Bath Sheet 100cm x 150cm and Super Jumbo 115cm x 180cm.
- Colourways available: 1.
- Tested by: Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
OUR RATING: 9/10Pros & ConsPros- Made from 100% Egyptian cotton for a soft, plush feel.
- Quickly dries the skin after a bath or shower.
- High-quality fabric ensures longevity and resistance to wear.
Cons- More expensive compared to other towels.
Christy Luxe Turkish Cotton Bath Towel
Why we love it: If you're not in the know, Turkish towels are best known for their absorbency. They might set you back a bit more, but when it comes to home furnishings, I'm definitely team ‘if it'll last longer, I'll pay more up front.' To each their own, of course.
Christy is a time-tested British bath towel brand, and since they've been making towels since 1850 (for the likes of Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II), they know a thing or two about quality. They also supply the distinctive towels at the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships.
Available in five colours, these bath towels are thick, luxurious and super absorbent – soaking up water extremely quickly. They're also known for holding up well in the wash without shrinking over time, and after putting them through several washes myself, I can confirm they've stayed in tip-top condition.
Specifications:
- Material: 100% Turkish cotton
- GSM: 730 GSM.
- Size: Hand towel 50 x 100cm, Bath towel 76 x 137cm and Bath sheet 90 x 165cm.
- Colourways available: French grey, pearl, surf, denim, white.
- Tested by: Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
Use our exclusive Christy promo codes for discounts on the best bath towels.
OUR RATING: 9/10Pros & ConsPros- Made from 100% Turkish cotton.
- Long-lasting quality, even with regular use.
- Available in a chic selection of colours.
Cons- Some reviewers reported that they lost their softness slightly over time.
Hampton and Astley Egyptian Cotton 7 Piece Luxury Bath Towel Set
Why we love it: A set of classic grey towels will never go out of style, and this option from Hampton & Astley has over 1,000+ five-star reviews for a reason. Crafted from Egyptian Cotton with a thick 650gsm pile, these absorbent towels are designed to get thicker and fluffier beyond the first three washes.
I tested the entire collection of this bath towel bundle, and it did not disappoint. They held up perfectly after many spins in the washing machine and have maintained their soft, plush texture that feels extra comfortable to wrap up in.
I particularly love that they come in a 7-piece set that includes an extra-large bath sheet, two bath towels, two hand towels, and two face cloths, which helped me upgrade my entire bath towel collection at once. They’re on the pricier side, but currently reduced, making now a great time to refresh your towel set for less.
Specifications:
- Material: Egyptian cotton.
- GSM: 650.
- Sizes: Face Cloths 30cm x 30cm, Hand Towels 50cm x 85cm, Bath Towels 70cm x 125cm, Large Bath Sheet 90cm x 165cm.
- Colourways available: Pink, dark grey, white, grey.
- Tested by: Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
OUR RATING: 8/10Pros & ConsPros- Includes bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths.
- Quickly dries the body after a bath or shower.
Cons- The set may be too heavy for some users’ preferences.
Why we love it: Turkish towels, or hammam towels, are a popular pick for travelling and beach towel use, in part because of their quick-drying functionality. Handcrafted in the UK, these towels come in 16 gorgeous colours, are lightweight, machine washable and exceptionally absorbent. Produced using traditional hand weaving techniques dating back to the 2nd century, they're made on hand looms with manual labour to preserve the authentic process.
The first thing we noticed about the towels after they arrived on our doorstep, was the aesthetic – these look so chic draped over our bathroom rail. The towels are incredibly soft, absorbent, and machine washable, which has made it super easy to keep them clean.
It's worth noting, though, that if you're someone who prefers a big, heavy, fluffy towel, these might not be for you due to their lightweight nature. With over 2,000+ 5-star reviews on Etsy, you can rest assured that you're investing in stylish towels that have also been tried and tested for quality.
Specifications:
- Material: Turkish Cotton.
- GSM: Unspecified.
- Sizes: 180cm x 100cm.
- Colourways available: 16.
- Tested by: Emily Whitwam, Associate Manager, Social Media.
OUR RATING: 8/10Pros & ConsPros- Thin and easy to pack, ideal for travel or the beach.
- Dries faster than thicker towels, making them ideal for summer.
- Softens with each wash.
Cons- Some may fray or wear quicker than traditional, thicker towels.
Why we love it: We're always looking for ways to inject more eco-friendly wares into our homes, and bamboo fibres are some of the best ways to do that without compromising on feel. For us, the deep chocolate shade of these Panda London towels is reminiscent of a luxe urban spa, while the higher GSM – 600 – makes for an extra cosy, comforting weight.
Panda's sustainable choice of fabric in their bath towels is what makes them a GLAMOUR favourite. Zero twist and supremely soft and fluffy, they're cut from an eco-friendly, silky-smooth and organic cotton-bamboo blend – which also makes them naturally anti-bacterial, odour-resistant and hypoallergenic. There's a loop that helps when hanging them up in the bathroom, too.
While I did notice some initial shedding on the first use, this isn't uncommon with brand new towels, but even so, this quickly resolved once they were washed at 30 degrees. They were absorbent on test too, which made drying off post-shower a breeze, and I love how the bath sheet is large enough to wrap your entire body in.
Specifications:
- Material: 65% combed long-staple cotton and 35% bamboo.
- GSM: 600 GSM.
- Sizes: Bath Sheet: 100cm x 150cm, Bath Towel 70cm x 135cm, Hand Towel 50cm x 90cm.
- Colourways available: 3.
- Tested by: Ali Howard, Freelance Writer.
OUR RATING: 8/10Pros & ConsPros- Made from sustainable bamboo.
- Exceptionally soft and gentle on the skin.
- Naturally resistant to bacteria and odors.
Cons- More expensive than regular cotton towels.
Patterned Cotton Terry Bath Towel
Why we love it: This H&M towel sits in that sweet middle ground between a quick-drying hammam style towel and a classic fluffy cotton bath towel. Made from patterned cotton terry with a lighter 450 GSM, it feels substantial enough for everyday use but dries far faster than heavier options, which makes it a solid choice for busy bathrooms. The raw, fringed edges give it a relaxed, modern feel, while the spotted pattern does the visual heavy lifting, ideal if you prefer pattern over colour and want something that looks good hanging on a rail.
I tried the 70 x 140cm bath towel size, which feels generous without tipping into XL bath sheet territory. Straight out of the packet it is soft rather than cloud-like, but absorbency is good from the first use and improves slightly after washing. These towels work particularly well in minimalist bathrooms, where the graphic pattern adds interest.
Care is refreshingly low-fuss. It's machine washable and holds its shape well, with the characterful fringed edges staying as they should. For the price, it feels thoughtfully designed and practical, especially if you want something that dries quickly, looks considered and doesn't dominate your bathroom palette.
Specifications:
- Material: 100% cotton.
- GSM: 450 GSM.
- Size: 70 x 140cm.
- Colourways available: Black/Spotted, Beige/Spotted.
- Tested by: Ali Howard, Freelance Writer.
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OUR RATING: 8/10Pros & ConsPros- Dries faster than fluffier towels.
- Graphic pattern adds instant personality.
- Lightweight but still absorbent.
Cons- Not as plush as heavier towels.
Bath Towel With Scalloped Edge
Why we love it: This towel is all about detail, pairing plush cotton terry with a beautifully finished scalloped edge stitched in a contrasting thread. It feels super soft with a 480 GSM weight that hits a nice balance between comfort and everyday usability. The embroidered scallop trim gives it a premium, boutique-hotel look and feel, adding interest without overpowering the bathroom with colour.
I tried out the bath towel size, and it felt both generous and comforting. The cotton terry is gentle on the skin and holds up well after washing, keeping that softness intact, while the scalloped edge stays nice and crisp. It's a simple way to elevate a neutral bathroom, or to add a softer note of colour if your space is more pared back.
Care is straightforward but worth paying attention to, as this one won't thank you for chucking it in the tumble dryer. But treated well, it feels like a small luxury you can reach for every day – proof that thoughtful finishing can make even the most practical homeware pieces feel really special.
Specifications:
- Material: 100% cotton (OCS certified organically grown cotton).
- GSM: 480 GSM.
- Sizes: Face towel 30 x 50cm, Hand towel 50 x 90cm, Bath towel 90 x 150cm.
- Colourways available: Pink, Green.
- Tested by: Ali Howard, Freelance Writer.
OUR RATING: 9/10Pros & ConsPros- Super soft feel.
- Scalloped embroidery elevates the look.
- Organic cotton feels premium.
Cons- Needs gentle care to keep edges looking sharp.
- Not the quickest to dry.
William Morris At Home Brick Orange Larkspur Towel
Why we love it: There's something really grounding about this towel, with its William Morris Larkspur pattern bringing roses, leafy branches and distinctive floral motifs into the bathroom. Woven in Portugal from 100% cotton, it feels luxuriously soft and comforting, with the terracotta and warm cream palette giving it a calm, lived-in feel. The design is classic and timeless, but the plain dyed border around the edge adds a bolder, more contemporary finish.
The bath towel feels generously sized without being unwieldy. It dries well, softens further after washing, and looks just as good folded on a shelf as it does hanging on a rail. If your bathroom is neutral, this adds pattern and warmth, and it works beautifully mixed in with plain towels, too.
Care is easy peasy. It's machine washable and holds its shape and colour well, making it a practical choice as well as a decorative one. A lovely option if you want everyday towels that feel both considered and homely.
Specifications:
- Material: 100% cotton.
- GSM: Not specified.
- Sizes: Hand towel 50 x 90cm, Bath towel 70 x 125cm, Bath sheet 100 x 150cm.
- Colourways available: Orange.
- Tested by: Ali Howard, Freelance Writer.
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OUR RATING: 8/10Pros & ConsPros- Classic pattern with lasting appeal.
- Softens nicely after washing.
- Generous, comforting sizing.
Cons- Heavier cotton takes longer to dry.
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Why we love it: These towels feel genuinely indulgent, with a plushness that you notice straight away but none of the heaviness that can slow drying time. The bamboo and cotton blend gives them a silky, spa-like handle, while the 700 GSM makes them brilliantly absorbent after a shower. They dry surprisingly quickly when hung too, which means no lingering dampness and no musty smells creeping in.
Both the bath towel and face cloth held their softness impressively after washing, with no roughening or piling. They feel especially good if you like your towels cocooning but still practical, and the natural antibacterial and odour-resistant qualities are a real bonus for everyday use. The neutral colourways keep things calm and grown-up, and they look just as good folded as they do in use.
Care instructions are simple, with a gentle wash and air drying keeping the them in great shape. If you're after towels that feel luxurious but still align with more mindful homeware choices, these bamboo blends are a great choice.
Specifications:
- Material: Bamboo and cotton blend.
- GSM: 700 GSM.
- Sizes: Face cloth 33 x 33cm, Hand towel 50 x 85cm, Bath towel 97 x 150cm.
- Colourways available: Grey, White.
- Tested by: Ali Howard, Freelance Writer.
OUR RATING: 8/10Pros & ConsPros- Silky soft texture.
- Excellent absorbency.
- Dries quickly when hung.
Cons- Heavier weight can slow wash cycles.
- Less fluffy than traditional terry.
Why we love it: While this one's designed with poolside lounging in mind, it works brilliantly back at home too, bringing a fresh, preppy look that instantly elevates the bathroom. The green and white cabana stripes feel crisp and considered, while the fluffy Turkish cotton delivers on both softness and absorbency. This towel boasts very generous sizing, making morning routines feel a whole lot more indulgent.
I tried it post-bath rather than poolside, and the generous size is a treat – it feels properly cocooning. It dries you quickly, then dries itself just as well when hung up, which is always a win. The embroidered Soho Farmhouse logo adds a subtle finishing touch, keeping things polished and playful.
When it comes to care, the towel holds up well to higher wash temperatures and tumble drying. If you like your bathroom towels to feel robust, good-looking and slightly transportive, this one fits neatly into the mix.
Specifications:
- Material: 100% cotton.
- GSM: Not specified.
- Size: 100 x 180cm.
- Colourways available: Green and white stripe.
- Tested by: Ali Howard, Freelance Writer.
OUR RATING: 8/10Pros & ConsPros- Generous size for wrapping up.
- Turkish cotton feels substantial.
- Fresh preppy stripe looks great on display.
Cons- Not available in other sizes.
Dorma Dreamsoft Organic Turkish Cotton Towel
Why we love it: This is proper hotel-style indulgence. Made from 100% organic Turkish cotton with a plush 700 GSM weight, it feels thick, cocooning and reassuringly luxurious, while still doing the important job of drying you quickly. The texture is soft and spongey and it holds that feel beautifully after washing.
This one comes in a supersize bath sheet, which feels extra indulgent. Absorbency is excellent, and the generous sizing makes it feel genuinely comforting rather than just functional. Thoughtful details like the hanging loop make everyday use easier too, and the wide colour palette is ideal if you want a coordinated bathroom or you like to mix tones.
Care-wise, it's machine washable and tumble-dry safe on a low heat, which helps maintain the softness over time. Add in the 10-year guarantee and this is a long-term investment towel, one you'll reach for daily and still appreciate years down the line.
Specifications:
- Material: 100% organic Turkish cotton.
- GSM: 700 GSM.
- Sizes: Face cloth 30 x 30cm, Hand towel 50 x 90cm, Bath towel 70 x 130cm, Bath sheet 100 x 150cm, Supersize bath sheet 200 x 100cm.
- Colourways available: Chateau Pink, Frost Grey, Midnight Navy, Mineral Green, Natural, Neptune (Blue), White Wash.
- Tested by: Ali Howard, Freelance Writer.
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OUR RATING: 9/10Pros & ConsPros- Thick and absorbent.
- Supersize bath sheet feels extra indulgent.
- Wide choice of colours.
Cons- Takes longer to dry due to weight.
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Bath towel FAQs
What to look for in a towel
When choosing a towel, consider its material, absorbency, durability, and softness. Look for towels made from high-quality materials like Egyptian or Turkish cotton, as they are known for their softness and absorbency. Check the towel's GSM, as this indicates the quality and density of the fabric. Additionally, consider the towel's size and colour to ensure it fits your needs and complements your bathroom decor.
- Thread count - When it comes to towels, thread count is measured differently than with bedding. Instead of threads per square inch, it's measured in grams per square meter (GSM). This indicates the density and quality of the towel fabric. You want to be looking at quality towels with a thread count of around 600gsm.
- Fabric - Towels are available in a variety of fabrics, each with its own set of advantages. Some of the most common options include Egyptian cotton towels, Turkish cotton towels, and microfibre towels.
- Design - Your choice of towel style is entirely dependent on your personal preference. When selecting a design, consider factors such as colour to ensure your bathroom towels blend well with your decor. In addition, consider buying bath sheets which have double-turned edges and double stitching to avoid fraying over time.
- Size options - Selecting the appropriate towel size is essential. When browsing for bath towels, you'll encounter various options ranging from face cloths to extra-large bath sheets. A bath towel or sheet is the perfect size for wrapping around yourself after a bath or shower.
How often should you buy new towels?
"This all depends on the quality, how often you use them, and how often you wash them", advises Robert Lancaster-Gaye from Tielle, the company known for supplying luxury towels and textiles to some of the world's top hotels. "You'll know you need to replace them when they're no longer as soft and fluffy as you'd like. Towels can last years if they're high quality, rotated and washed carefully". Luxe Egyptian‑ or Turkish‑cotton ones tend to stay soft and absorbent longer, while bargain finds will obviously wear out faster. If you notice fraying edges, persistent damp odours, reduced absorbency or a scratchy texture (not even a good fabric softener will fix that), it's time to bid them farewell.
Do towels get more absorbent after washing?
Yes, and it's completely normal for new towels to improve with use. Fresh-from-the-shop towels are often treated with finishing agents during manufacturing, which help them look smooth and plush on display but can slightly repel water at first. This is why a brand-new towel can feel soft yet struggle to absorb moisture properly.
After one or two washes, these coatings are gradually removed, allowing the cotton fibres to open up and do what they are meant to. Absorbency improves noticeably, and the towel starts to feel more effective rather than just decorative. Washing new towels before their first use, skipping fabric softener and avoiding overloading the machine will help them reach their full potential more quickly.
Is it normal for new towels to shed?
Yes, it's quite common for new towels to shed fibres, especially if they are made from natural materials like cotton. Robert agrees, telling us: “Yes it is. They’re made of cotton, and all cotton will lose fibres over time. However, higher quality cotton will shed less than lower quality cotton, meaning towels will stay fluffier and whiter for longer." Shedding can also be a result of the manufacturing process and typically decreases after the first few washes. To minimise shedding, wash new towels separately before using them for the first time and avoid using fabric softeners, which can trap loose fibres.
How often should you wash bath towels?
To maintain hygiene and prevent germ buildup, it's important to ensure your bath towel dries completely between uses and is washed regularly. We suggest washing your towels after approximately three uses. For those who shower everyday, this translates to washing them around twice a week. Face cloths used for washing your face should be washed after each use, and the same applies to gym towels, as they are more susceptible to accumulating airborne bacteria.
How do you keep towels soft?
To keep towels soft, use detergent sparingly and avoid fabric softeners. "Fabric softener coats fibres, and whilst it might feel softer to start with, this coating can build up on towelling fibres which doesn’t get washed off", Robert says. "It can feel tacky and harsh as the softener gets further baked on when drying the towel. This can be reversed though by washing with detergent only."
Opt for gentle washing in warm water and tumble dry with dryer balls to fluff towels. Avoid over-drying by removing towels from the dryer while slightly damp, and consider air drying for natural softening. Even if your towels have loops for hanging, we still recommend fully drying them for an even dry. Here's Robert's towel drying hack: "When it comes to drying, the best way is to line dry the towels (or hang indoors) then, before they are completely dry, spin them in the tumble drier for ten minutes, or until soft and fluffy. Ideally, you wouldn’t tumble dry them from wet". He adds: “Finally, don’t compress them when storing as this will compress the fluffiness you’ve achieved, loosely roll to store if you can".
Which material bath towel is best?
No one has time to stand dripping in the bathroom for an hour post-shower, so make a beeline for a quick-drying towel that won't feel damp after 30 seconds. Hydrocotton towels – like The White Company's plush bath towels – tend to be very fast drying with thanks to the "low twist" technology they've been crafted using. This makes them perfect for children and busy households. They'll also stay ultra-soft and supple even after washing them.
“Cotton towels are prized for their absorbency, softness and durability, but their effectiveness depends on the type of cotton used”, advises Robert. “Turkish cotton towels and Egyptian cotton towels are the most popular choices for luxury hotels and spas. However, Aegean Turkish cotton, is considered the absolute best. Aegean Turkish cotton fibres are longer and finer than other types of cotton, creating a more opulent feel than other towel materials, such as bamboo towels. Aegean Turkish towels also get softer with each wash, making them the top choice for those who prioritise comfort and quality over price."
What size bath towels should I buy?
"Towel size matters!", says Robert. "While this can vary among manufacturers, sizing for towel types is based on its intended use. Bath towels are just the right size for bathing and are smaller than a bath sheet, which offers more comfort and coverage. This makes bath sheets especially useful for larger frames. Hand towels and face cloths are big enough to do what they’re supposed to do: comfortably dry hands or face."
Make sure you've selected a bath towel or something larger if you're going to be using it to dry yourself after a bath or shower. These are your typical bath towel dimensions:
- Bath towel: L130 x W70cm.
- Bath sheet: L150 x W90cm.
- XL bath sheet: L180 x W100cm.
