Bath Towels Buying Guide | How to Choose the Perfect Towels

Finding the perfect towel for you can be a difficult process, but don't worry we're here to simplify it for you. Our guide will help you choose the perfect towel for your bathroom - one that stays irresistibly soft and plush, wash after wash. Say goodbye to worn-out towels and hello to an indulgent and cosy experience every time you step out of the shower. From understanding the nuances of different towel fabrics to mastering maintenance tips to keep towels soft and fluffy, we're here to help with our advice, each step of the way.

Quick Links

• Towel Types & Materials
• Thread Count and GSM
• Towel Size Guide
• Towel Styling Tips
• How to Fold Towels Properly
• Towels FAQs

Towel Types & Materials

When it comes to selecting the ideal towel, the material matters more than you might think. Each fabric offers a unique blend of softness, absorbency, and durability, catering to different preferences and needs. Let's explore the key types:

Cotton Towels

The crowd favourite of towel materials, cotton offers unparalleled comfort and absorbency. Whether it's a classic terry cloth towel or premium Egyptian cotton, this natural fibre is known for its softness and durability. Perfect for everyday use, cotton towels are a staple in any bathroom.

Bamboo Towels

Crafted from bamboo fibres, these towels offer a silky-smooth texture and impressive absorbency. Hypoallergenic and eco-friendly, bamboo towels are an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin or a preference for sustainability.

Egyptian Cotton Towels

Renowned for their long, luxurious fibres, Egyptian cotton towels are the epitome of indulgence. With superior absorbency and a plush feel, they bring a touch of spa-like luxury to your everyday routine.

Turkish Cotton Towels

Hailing from the cotton fields of Turkey, these towels are celebrated for their exceptional softness and quick-drying properties. The long fibres of Turkish cotton produce towels that are both absorbent and lightweight, making them perfect for busy, on-the-go households.

Microfibre Towels

Made from ultra-fine synthetic fibres, microfibre towels excel at absorbing moisture and drying quickly. Focusing on their quick drying properties, microfibre towels are the ideal towel for gym sessions or beach trips.

Zero Twist Towels

Looking for the softest, fluffiest towel? Zero twist towels are a revolutionary innovation in towel manufacturing, with zero twist technology eliminating the twisting process during production, resulting in a loftier, more breathable towel. The absence of twisted fibres enhances the towel's softness and fluffiness, delivering a spa-like experience with every use.

Thread Count and GSM

Not all towels are created equal. Towels made from similar fibres (like cotton) can boast huge variations in quality based on the brand and manufacturing process. This is where two essential metrics for assessing towel quality come in: thread count and GSM (grams per square metre).

Thread Count in Towels

Thread count is a crucial factor to consider when selecting towels, as it directly impacts their softness, durability, and overall quality. It refers to the number of threads woven into one square inch of fabric. Generally, a higher thread count indicates a denser weave, resulting in a smoother and more luxurious feel. Here's a closer look at thread count and its implications for your towel experience:

• Texture: Towels with a higher thread count tend to feel softer against the skin due to the finer and more tightly woven fibres. This enhanced softness can elevate your bathing experience, providing a gentle touch that feels luxurious and indulgent.
• Quality: A higher thread count often translates to increased durability, as the densely packed fibres create a stronger fabric structure. This means that towels with a higher thread count are less prone to fraying, tearing, or pilling, ensuring long-lasting performance and value.
• Aesthetics: Higher thread count towels tend to have a smoother and more refined texture, with a luxurious look that enhances their visual appeal. The tight weave created by a higher thread count can result in a more refined texture, elevating the aesthetic of your bathroom decor.

To ensure optimal quality, look for towels with a thread count of 300 or higher. This threshold typically indicates a well-constructed towel that strikes the perfect balance between softness, durability, and absorbency.

GSM (Grams per Square Meter) in Towels

GSM, or grams per square metre, is another essential metric for evaluating towel quality. It measures the density of the towel's fabric by weighing one square metre of material. Higher GSM values indicate thicker, more plush towels with superior absorbency and durability. Here's how GSM impacts your towel experience:

• Absorbency: Towels with a higher GSM are capable of absorbing more moisture due to their denser fabric construction. This makes them ideal for drying off quickly after a shower or bath, ensuring a comfortable experience.
• Plushness: The thickness and plushness of a towel are directly influenced by its GSM. Towels with a higher GSM feel more luxurious and enveloping, providing a cosy sensation as you wrap yourself in their soft embrace.
• Durability: While higher GSM values often signify superior quality, it's essential to consider other factors such as fabric type and construction methods. A well-made towel with a high GSM can offer excellent durability, resisting wear and tear over time.

For a luxurious towel experience, aim for a GSM of 500 or above. This level of density ensures a sumptuously soft and absorbent towel that enhances your daily bathing ritual with unparalleled comfort and luxury.

Towel Size Guide

This guide provides a quick reference for selecting the right size towel for your specific needs, whether it's drying your hands, cleansing your face, or wrapping yourself in luxurious comfort after a bath or shower.

How many towels do I need for my bathroom?

Now that you're familiar with the standard sizes of towels, you may be wondering how many towels you need to keep your bathroom well-stocked. The quantity of towels required can vary depending on factors such as household size, frequency of use, and personal preferences. Here's a general guideline to help you determine the ideal quantity:

• Hand Towels: It's recommended to have at least two to three hand towels per person in your household. This ensures that there are always clean towels available for hand drying and prevents the need for frequent laundering.
• Face Washers: Similar to hand towels, having two to three face washers per person is advisable. This allows for regular rotation between uses and ensures proper hygiene in your skincare routine.
• Bath Towels: For bath towels, consider having two to three towels per person for everyday use. This quantity allows for one towel in use, one in the laundry, and a spare for convenience.
• Bath Sheets: While bath sheets provide extra-large coverage, one per person is typically sufficient for most households. However, if you prefer to have additional comfort or frequently entertain guests, you may opt for an extra bath sheet or two.

By following these recommendations, you can ensure that you have an adequate supply of towels to meet your household's needs while maintaining cleanliness and comfort in your bathroom. Adjust the quantities based on your specific lifestyle, budget, and preferences for a personalised towel collection.

Towel Styling Tips

Dive into the aesthetics of your bathroom by mastering the art of towel styling. From colour coordination to texture contrast and proper folding techniques, these tips will help you achieve a designer-worthy look in your bathroom:

Our Top Bathroom Towel Styling Tips

• Choose a Colour Scheme: Select a colour palette that compliments your bathroom decor and reflects your style. Consider incorporating shades that harmonise with existing elements such as wall paint, tiles, or shower curtains.
• Mix and Match Textures: Experiment with different towel textures to add visual interest and dimension to your bathroom. Pair plush towels with ribbed or waffle-weave textures for a sophisticated contrast that adds depth to your space.
• Layer with Accent Towels: Introduce accent towels in coordinating or contrasting colours to create focal points and add pops of colour to your bathroom. Mix solid hues with patterned or striped towels for a dynamic and stylish look.
• Accessorise with Towel Sets: Invest in matching towel sets that include hand towels, face washers, and bath towels for a cohesive and polished appearance. Coordinate towel colours and textures across all sizes to achieve a cohesive and harmonious look.

How To Fold Towels Properly

Correct towel folding technique not only elevates the appearance of your bathroom for that hotel-at-home look. It also helps to save space and keep your linens neatly organised. Follow these step-by-step instructions for folding bath towels with precision and style:

1. Lay the Towel Flat: Start by laying the towel flat on a clean, flat surface such as a countertop or bed.
2. Fold in Half Lengthwise: Fold one long edge of the towel towards the centre, bringing it halfway towards the opposite edge.
3. Fold in Half Again: Fold the other long edge of the towel towards the centre, overlapping the first fold to create a long strip.
4. Fold in Thirds or Halves: Depending on the size of your towel and storage space, you can fold the towel in thirds or halves width wise. For a smaller, compact fold, fold the towel in thirds. For a larger, more open fold, fold the towel in half.
5. Smooth Out Wrinkles: Use your hands to smooth out any wrinkles or creases in the towel, ensuring a crisp and neat appearance.
6. Stand the Towel Upright: Once folded, stand the towel upright on one of its folded edges. This not only maximises storage space but also creates an aesthetically pleasing bathroom display.
7. (Optional) - Repeat for Additional Towels: Repeat the folding process for each towel in your collection, ensuring consistency in size and appearance.

By following these simple steps, you can achieve perfectly folded towels that add a touch of elegance to your bathroom decor. Whether you prefer a minimalist look or a more decorative display, proper towel folding is the key to maintaining a tidy and inviting space.

Can you tell we're passionate about the delicate finer details that make a house a home, here at KOO? We have an even more comprehensive guide on simple ways to store and fold towels if you want to explore this topic further and find your perfect folding style.

Towels: Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference in size between a bath towel and a bath sheet?

A bath towel is typically 70 cm x 140 cm (27 inches x 55 inches), while a bath sheet is larger at around 80 cm x 160 cm (31 inches x 63 inches), providing extra coverage and a more luxurious drying experience.

How can you tell if a bath towel is good quality?

Check for premium materials like Egyptian or Turkish cotton, a higher GSM for a denser feel, tight stitching, and edges, along with a plush and velvety texture for softness.

How often do you need to change your bath towels?

Launder bath towels every three to four uses to maintain freshness and hygiene, or more frequently if they become visibly soiled, damp-smelling, or develop mildew. Hanging towels to dry between uses can help prolong their freshness.

How long should a good towel last before it needs replacing?

A good quality towel should last for several years with proper care and maintenance. On average, expect a well-made towel to remain in good condition for at least two to three years, though some high-quality towels can last even longer with regular washing and careful handling.

Shop the Best Towels in Australia at KOO

Ready to update your towel collection? We've curated a premium range of quality bath towels, beach towels, kids' towels, bath mats, bath robes, and bathroom accessories. You can find Egyptian cotton towels, bamboo cotton towels, hooded kids' towels, terry towels and more in a range of on-trend patterns and colours. Don't forget to join the KOO Club for exclusive offers and specials on towels, bed linen and our other premium homeware offerings.