Shopping for towels can be a bit overwhelming. You want to buy towels that feel soft and luxurious, but what does ‘gram count’ really mean? How do you tell the difference between Turkish cotton and Egyptian cotton, or pick from a rainbow of colours and patterns?
According to experts, understanding the factors such as the towel’s material, weight, and absorbency can make a significant difference in your selection. Before you throw in the towel too soon, take some time to read our handy guide below. We’ve gathered everything you need to know about how to choose bath towels into five key categories—from size and weight to construction—so that your search will go as smoothly as possible.
1. Material Matters
When choosing a bath towel, focus on the materials used. Natural yarns like cotton, bamboo, banana, or rayon are generally softer and more skin-friendly compared to synthetic options. These natural fibres are proven to be more comfortable and durable, making them ideal for those with sensitive skin.
- Cotton: Cotton is valued for its softness and absorbency. Variants include:
- Egyptian Cotton: Luxuriously soft and highly absorbent with extra-fine fibres.
- Turkish Cotton: Lightweight and quick-drying with long fibres.
- Pima Cotton: Plush and absorbent, similar to Egyptian cotton but more affordable.
- Organic Cotton: Eco-friendly and free from harmful chemicals.
- Microfiber: Made from super-fine synthetic fibres, these towels are durable, smooth, and quick-drying, ideal for travel or the gym.
- Linen: Lightw eight and durable with natural antimicrobial properties, linen towels absorb water quickly and resist mildew.
- Modal: Plant-based and more absorbent than cotton, made from wood pulp cellulose.
- Bamboo: Eco-friendly and soft, though it takes longer to dry compared to other materials.
2. Size Matters
Bath towels usually come in a standard size of about 27″ x 52″. However, if you prefer a bit more coverage and luxury, consider bath sheets. These are larger and provide a more comfortable wrap, making them a great choice for added indulgence.
3. Weight and GSM
The weight of a towel is measured in grams per square meter (GSM).
- 300-400 GSM: Lightweight, quick-drying, ideal for travel or gym use.
- 400-600 GSM: Medium-weight, balancing absorbency and drying time.
- 600-900 GSM: Plush and spa-like, very absorbent and soft, but may take longer to dry.
4. Absorbency
When it comes to absorbency, cotton towels, particularly those made from Egyptian or Turkish cotton, are top performers. Our Copper-infused bath towels take absorbency to the next level by incorporating copper ions, which help keep the towels fresher for longer by inhibiting bacterial growth.
5. Drying Time
Consider how quickly the towel dries. Lightweight towels with a lower GSM dry faster, which is helpful if you have limited drying space or live in a humid climate. On the other hand, thicker towels take longer to dry but offer more absorbency. Microfiber towels are known for their quick-drying properties and are a good option for busy households.
6. Anti-Microbial Properties
Our Copper-infused towels feature copper ions woven into the fabric, providing anti-microbial benefits. This means they naturally resist bacteria and fungi, ensuring that your towels stay cleaner and more hygienic over time. This feature is particularly beneficial for maintaining freshness and cleanliness.
By understanding these key qualities, you can choose the perfect towel to meet your needs. Our Copper-infused bath towels offer a unique combination of absorbency, quick drying time, and anti-microbial properties, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking for quality bath towels.
Author Bio:
Rory is the R&D Director and passionate entrepreneur, fascinated by the workings of the human body and natural solutions for common health problems. He’s single-minded in his aim to make Copper Defence a brand that’s recognized across the globe, by partnering with global brands to make these high-tech materials easily accessible for everyone. If you’d like to get in touch, email Rory at Rory@copperclothing.com or visit copperclothing.com for copper-infused clothing, pet accessories and more.
