When it comes to everyday luxuries, nothing quite beats the feeling of wrapping yourself in a soft, fluffy towel after a shower. The only issue is with so many options available, how are you supposed to choose the best one for your home? Whether you’re after plush bath sheets, quick-drying hand towels, or something stylish for your guest bathroom, this guide will hopefully make it all a little clearer – and a little easier. We get it – it’s easy to get lost. But once you start asking yourself the right questions, and get some general knowledge about the topic – which you’re about to receive – you’ll see for yourself, this whole process doesn’t have to be that difficult or confusing.
Right Fabric
The first thing to consider is the material. The most common types are cotton and microfiber, each with its own benefits.
- Cotton Towels: Known for their softness and absorbency, cotton towels are a classic choice. Egyptian and Turkish cotton are considered the gold standards due to their long fibres, which make the towels extra soft and durable. If you’re after luxury, these are the way to go. You may have heard that cotton is not exactly planet-friendly. That’s true. But what if we told you can get all the benefits with almost none of the environmental toll? Yes, it’s possible – organic cotton towels.
- Microfiber Towels: These towels are made from synthetic materials and are much thinner than cotton towels. They’re known for being quick-drying and highly absorbent, making them perfect for the gym or travel. However, they may not provide the same plush feel as cotton towels.
- Bamboo towels: They’re quickly gaining popularity for all the right reasons. Not only are they incredibly soft and gentle on the skin, but they’re also a more sustainable choice. Bamboo is a fast-growing, renewable resource, making these towels an eco-friendly option. They are naturally antibacterial and hypoallergenic, which is great for sensitive skin. Plus they’re highly absorbent and become even softer after each wash. If you’re looking for a towel that combines luxury with sustainability, bamboo towels might just be the perfect addition to your bathroom.
Weight and Thickness
Towel weight is measured in grams per square meter (GSM). Generally speaking, the higher the GSM, the thicker and more absorbent the towel will be. This also usually means it’s going to be more expensive.
- 300-400 GSM: These towels are lighter and quicker to dry, ideal for beach towels or gym towels where portability and quick drying are key.
- 400-600 GSM: This is the middle ground, providing a balance between absorbency and drying time. These towels are perfect for everyday use in the bathroom.
- 600-900 GSM: These are the plushest, most absorbent towels, ideal for anyone looking to bring a bit of spa-like luxury into their home. However, they take longer to dry, so they may not be the best choice for humid climates.
Sizing
The size of your towel can also make a big difference. Bath towels, face towels, feet towels, hand towels, bath sheets – they all have their place in the bathroom. So make sure you think of that as well.
- Bath Towels: Typically measuring around 27” x 52”, bath towels are the standard size and are perfect for everyday use. They’re big enough to wrap around most adults but not too bulky for storage.
- Bath Sheets: These are oversized towels, usually around 35” x 60” or larger. If you enjoy the feeling of a big, enveloping towel, or if you’re on the taller side, bath sheets are a great option.
Matching Your Décor
While functionality is key, don’t forget about style. Towels are an easy way to add a splash of colour or pattern to your bathroom. And the fact is – there aren’t too many. You can’t really hang art, or go for elaborate decorations. You have to keep the space clean, simple and functional. Towels and mats are one of the few ways to do it. A stone bath mat can be an interesting choice for the latter. Whether you prefer neutral tones that blend with your bathroom décor or bold colours that make a statement, there’s something for everyone.
- Neutral Colours: White, grey, or beige towels are classic choices that never go out of style. They’re easy to match with any bathroom décor and tend to look cleaner for longer.
- Bold Colours and Patterns: If you want to add a pop of colour to your bathroom, consider towels in vibrant hues or with unique patterns. Just make sure they’re colourfast so they won’t fade or bleed in the wash.
Keep Them Fluffy
To keep your towels soft and absorbent, proper care is essential. It’s no secret that whoever made it knows exactly what needs to be done. In the end, they made the rules. So the conclusion is very simple – always follow the care instructions on the label, but as a general rule:
- Wash in Warm Water: This helps to remove oils and residues that can make towels feel less absorbent.
- Skip the Fabric Softener: Fabric softeners can leave a residue that reduces absorbency.
- Tumble Dry on Low: High heat can damage the fibres and reduce the lifespan of your towels.
Bathroom Essential
A perfect towel offers a perfect balance between comfort, durability, and style. Make the choice that fits your needs, style, and expectations regarding quality, maintenance and care, as well as the budget. There’s no way around it – budget always plays a big role. The good news is that when it comes to towels, even those on the pricier end will not bankrupt you. They’re all relatively affordable, so it’s only a question of making that step – and that investment. The truth is even when you end up dissatisfied with the product, you’re not going to regret it that much in terms of losing money. Of course, ideally, you get it right the first time – and it’s not that hard. With a little research and the knowledge you now possess, you can do it!