Best Towels: Materials, Sizes and What to Look For
Towels are essential items that we use every day. They come in different materials, sizes, and quality. Choosing the right towel can make a significant difference in your daily routine. In this post, we will dive into the different materials towels can be made of, the various sizes available, and what to look for when shopping for new towels.
Materials
Towels can be made from a variety of materials, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Here are some of the most common materials you'll come across:
Cotton
Cotton is the most popular material for towels, and for good reason. It's soft, absorbent, and durable, making it the perfect choice for everyday use. Egyptian cotton is considered the gold standard of cotton towels. It is made from extra-long staple cotton fibers that create a soft, durable, and long-lasting towel. Pima cotton is also a high-quality cotton that is similar to Egyptian cotton. Pima cotton is grown in the southwestern United States and South America. Supima cotton is another high-quality cotton that is grown in the United States. It has longer fibers than regular cotton, making it softer and more durable.
Microfiber
Microfiber towels are made from a blend of polyester and nylon, and they're prized for their super-absorbent properties. They're also lightweight and quick-drying, making them a good choice for travel or the gym. Microfiber towels have thousands of tiny fibers that can absorb up to seven times their weight in water. They are also gentle on the skin and can be used for people who have sensitive skin.
Bamboo
Bamboo towels are a relatively new addition to the towel scene, but they're gaining popularity quickly. They're made from bamboo fibers, which are naturally anti-bacterial and hypoallergenic. They're also incredibly soft and absorbent. Bamboo towels are eco-friendly since they are made from a renewable resource. They are also durable and can withstand many washes.
Linen
Linen towels are made from flax fibers, and they are highly absorbent and quick-drying. They are also lightweight and have a unique texture that is different from other towels. Linen towels are perfect for hot and humid climates since they are breathable and don't retain moisture.
Turkish Cotton
Turkish cotton towels are made from long-staple cotton fibers that make them soft and absorbent. They are also durable and can withstand many washes. Turkish cotton towels are lightweight, making them perfect for travel or the gym. They also become softer and more absorbent after each wash.
Sizes
Towels come in different sizes, and choosing the right size depends on your needs. Here are the most common sizes you'll come across:
Hand Towel
Hand towels are usually the smallest size of towels. They are used to dry your hands and face. They measure approximately 16 x 30 inches.
Bath Towel
Bath towels are the most common size of towels. They are used to dry your body after a shower or bath. They measure approximately 27 x 52 inches.
Bath Sheet
Bath sheets are larger than bath towels. They are used to wrap around your body after a shower or bath. They measure approximately 35 x 60 inches.
What to Look For
When shopping for towels, there are a few key things to keep in mind:
Absorbency
Look for towels that are absorbent enough to dry you off quickly without leaving you feeling damp. Cotton towels are usually the most absorbent, followed by bamboo and microfiber towels.
Durability
Towels should be able to stand up to regular use and washing without falling apart or losing their shape. Egyptian cotton and Turkish cotton towels are usually the most durable.
Softness
You want towels that feel soft and luxurious against your skin. Egyptian cotton, Pima cotton, and bamboo towels are usually the softest.
Size
Make sure the towels you choose are the right size for your needs. Hand towels are usually the smallest, followed by bath towels and bath sheets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I replace my towels?
A: It's recommended to replace your towels every two years. However, if your towels are showing signs of wear and tear, such as fraying or thinning fabric, it's time to replace them.
Q: How should I care for my towels?
A: Wash your towels in warm water with mild detergent. Avoid using fabric softener, as it can reduce absorbency. Dry your towels on low heat or hang them to dry.
Q: What's the difference between a bath towel and a bath sheet?
A: A bath towel is the most common size of towel and is used to dry your body after a shower or bath. A bath sheet is larger than a bath towel and can be used to wrap around your body.