Everyone knows how delightful it is to use a soft, fluffy towel right after getting out of the shower. But not all towels are created equal — some do a better job than others. To help you spot a quality bath towel when shopping, you first have to understand what makes a good one.
Absorbency
Your choice of towel should be able to dry you completely when you step out of the shower or bathtub. After all, this is its basic purpose. Towels have weight measurements (GSM, or grams per square meter) that determine the quality. A higher GSM in a towel indicates better absorbency.
However, GSM ratings aren’t always easily found. If this number is not indicated, look for a heavy towel that has a thin yarn and deep pill. The latter refers to the cut fabric that comes out of the towel, while the yarn indicates the thickness of a single pill.
Thickness
While it’s easy to assume that a lighter towel would do a better job, this isn’t always the case. The best towels are usually woven more densely, which means they tend to feel heavier than they appear. The key indicator of thickness is the towel’s pill. This should be woven so densely that the towel becomes opaque.
Fiber Content
It’s advisable to check the label stitched into a towel to ensure that its fabric content is as advertised. This way, you’ll avoid being misled by false adverts claiming that it’s 100% cotton when the content is only 10%. Also, only opt for towels made entirely out of microfiber or natural fibers; steer clear of those made using mixed fibers. Generally, Turkish linen bath towels are widely preferred due to the smoother threads that come as a result of the long fibers. They also tend to become fluffier and softer with successive washings.
Edges
Edges that are double-stitched and double-turned are more likely to have a longer life. Also, look for towels with properly-reinforced edges as they’re less likely to fray. Keep in mind that edges are often the fastest-wearing part of a towel.
Decor
Towels can significantly improve your bathroom’s visual appeal. While the traditional towel is timeless, you might want to spruce things up just a little bit. And this doesn’t need to be hard; even buying a towel with monograms could boost your bathroom’s overall look.
Having a quality towel is one of life’s most mundane luxuries. When shopping, remember to look for large, thick, soft and absorbent towels. While these tend to be pricey, you’ll never have to replace old, worn out towels after purchasing one.
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