Buying Guide for the Best towels
Choosing the right towel can make everyday routines more comfortable, whether you're drying off after a shower, heading to the gym, or relaxing by the pool. To find the best towel for your needs, it helps to understand a few essential qualities that set towels apart: material, thickness, size, absorbency, softness, and durability. By considering how you plan to use your towel and what you value most—whether it's plush softness, quick drying, or extra-large size—you can easily zero in on the perfect option for you.MaterialThe material of a towel determines its feel, absorbency, and long-term performance. Cotton is the most common, with Egyptian and Turkish varieties known for their softness and absorbency, while microfiber towels are lightweight and quick-drying. If you want a soft, luxury feel, go for high-quality cotton. If you need something that dries in a flash and packs small for travel, microfiber is a better fit. Consider how you’ll use your towel: for daily bathroom use, thick cotton is great; for sports or travel, microfiber is handy.
Thickness (GSM - Grams per Square Meter)GSM measures the density of fabric, telling you how thick and heavy a towel is. Towels typically range from 300 to 900 GSM. At the lower end (300–400 GSM), towels are lightweight and dry quickly, making them good for travel or the gym. Middle-range towels (400–600 GSM) strike a balance between absorbency and quick drying, suitable for everyday use. Towels at the higher end (600–900 GSM) are plush, super absorbent, and feel luxurious—ideal if you love a spa-like feel, but they take longer to dry. Choose a GSM level that matches your desire for softness versus need for speedy drying.
SizeTowels come in various sizes, from small hand towels to extra-large bath sheets. Bath towels and bath sheets are most common for drying off after bathing, with bath sheets being larger and offering more coverage. Choose the size based on your personal preference: if you want maximum coverage or like to wrap yourself up after a shower, go for a bigger towel. For everyday practicality or compact storage, a standard-sized bath towel might be best. If you need a towel for hair or face, a hand or wash towel will do.
AbsorbencyAbsorbency is how much moisture a towel can hold and how fast it can soak up water from your skin. Higher-quality cotton and higher GSM towels tend to be more absorbent. If you want a towel that leaves you dry quickly, look for options emphasizing high absorbency, but remember these may take longer to dry out after use. For gym or travel, a slightly less absorbent but quick-drying towel might be preferable.
SoftnessSoftness affects comfort and how pleasant a towel feels against your skin. This depends on both the material and the weave. Premium cotton and velvety finishes provide an ultra-soft touch, which feels great for sensitive skin or if you want a luxurious experience. If you aren’t too concerned about plushness, standard cotton or blended fabric towels may be sufficient. Remember, some towels get softer after a few washes.
DurabilityDurability reflects how long a towel will last without fraying, thinning, or losing shape. Double-stitched edges and high-quality materials add to a towel's lifespan. If you value a towel that stays fluffy and strong through many washes, keep an eye out for signs of strong stitching and good reviews on lasting quality. For occasional use, you may not need the most durable option, but for something you’ll wash and use daily, durability is key.