Buying Guide for the Best Pool Towels
Selecting the right pool towel can make your lounging or swimming experience much more enjoyable. When shopping for pool towels, it's important to consider what matters most to you—are you prioritizing quick drying, comfort, durability, or ease of carrying? Pool towels come in many shapes, sizes, and materials, so understanding the key features will help you choose a towel that best fits your routine, whether you're planning to sunbathe, dry off quickly after swimming, or pack your towel in a beach bag for trips.SizeThe size of a pool towel determines how much coverage you get and how comfortable it is to wrap around yourself or lie on. Standard pool towels are usually larger than regular bath towels, allowing you to fully stretch out or wrap the towel around your body. Smaller towels are easier to pack and carry, while larger towels provide more comfort and coverage. If you prefer to lounge on your towel or want extra coverage, a larger size is best; for those on the go, a standard or compact size might be more convenient.
MaterialPool towels are commonly made from cotton, microfiber, or blends. Cotton towels are soft, absorbent, and comfortable, but they can be heavier and slower to dry. Microfiber towels are lightweight and dry quickly, but may not feel as plush as cotton. Some towels blend materials to balance comfort with quick-drying ability. If you value plush softness and comfort, cotton is a good choice; if you want a towel that packs smaller and dries fast between swims, microfibre could be best for you.
AbsorbencyAbsorbency indicates how well a towel soaks up water. Thicker towels or those made with high-quality cotton generally absorb more water, making them effective for drying off quickly. Microfiber towels tend to absorb water fast but can feel less substantial. If you want to dry off thoroughly after a swim, look for high absorbency; if you mainly need a towel for lounging, moderate absorbency may be sufficient.
Weight/ThicknessThe weight or thickness of a pool towel affects both its absorbency and comfort. Thicker, heavier towels feel luxurious and absorb more, but they are bulkier to carry and take longer to dry. Lighter towels are easier to transport and dry faster but might not provide as much warmth or comfort. If you like a plush, spa-like feel, opt for a thicker towel; if portability is your focus, a lighter one is a better fit.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the towel holds up to frequent use, washing, sun, and pool chemicals. Towels with tightly woven fibers and reinforced edges tend to last longer. If you use your pool towel often or wash it frequently, pay attention to construction details that promise long-term use. For occasional or light use, durability may be less of a priority.
Style and ColorStyle and color are mostly about personal preference, but bright or patterned towels can be useful at busy pools or beaches because they're easier to spot. Darker towels may hide stains better, while lighter colors can reflect heat. Choose a style that fits your taste or stands out in a crowd if you often swim in public places.