The Complete Towel Buying Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Four blue large bath towels from Southshore Fine Linens.

Luxury is a state of mind, a feeling of comfort and elegance that transforms your home from a mere dwelling to a palace. And when it comes to indulging in luxury, nothing beats the simple pleasure of wrapping yourself in soft, absorbent towels after a long bath or shower.

Do you crave the comfort of plush, absorbent towels that make you feel like royalty?

At Southshore Fine Linens, we pride ourselves on offering the best bath towels on the market.

We offer a wide range of sizes, from standard to large bath towels, giving you the choice to pick the perfect option that suits your needs.

But with so many options available, finding the perfect towel can be an overwhelming experience. That's where Southshore Fine Linens comes in to make the buying process a whole lot easier.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about finding the best options based on your preference.

So let's get started and find your new favorite towel set today!

What makes a good bath towel?

A good bath towel is one that is made from high-quality materials, such as 100% combed cotton or a blend of natural fibers, which ensures softness, durability, and absorbency.

The weight of the towel is also a factor; a heavier towel tends to be more absorbent and luxurious. The size of the bath towel is also important; it should be large enough to wrap comfortably around your body.

Additionally, a good bath towel should be easy to care for and maintain its softness and quality over time.

How to choose bath towels

Here are some of the key factors to consider when buying towels:

Material

At Southshore Fine Linens, we take the quality of towels very seriously. We understand that not all towels are created equal, which is why we use only the finest materials in crafting our cotton towels. Our towels are made with the highest quality 100% combed cotton, an exclusive fabric that is perfect for those who demand the very best.

Combed cotton, which can only be used on the highest grade of cotton, undergoes a pre-weaving process that involves removing the shorter threads. This process leaves only the longest and strongest threads to be woven into the towel. The result is a towel that is less likely to pull and is more durable than its counterparts.

Here are other types of materials that you'll find in towels:

  • Quick-dry towels: These towels are made with a special towel material that wicks moisture away and quickly dries. Perfect for those who favor speed, these towels are also great for hot yoga sessions or the gym.
  • Linen towels: Linen is known for its incredibly soft texture and absorbency. This luxurious fabric adds an extra bit of elegance to any bathroom.
  • Bamboo towels: Bamboo towels are highly absorbent and antimicrobial. These environmentally-friendly towels are also incredibly soft and perfect for those seeking something a bit more special.

Size

Six blue different sized towels portraying a bath towel size chart from Southshore Fine Linens.

When it comes to bath towels, size matters. A towel that is too small will wrap around your body uncomfortably, while a towel that is too large will take forever to dry, making it impractical for everyday use. It is important to choose a bath towel that is the right size, ensuring that you can wrap yourself comfortably without feeling restricted.

However, smaller towels make sense in certain contexts, such as when you're traveling and don't want to take up too much space. Smaller towels are also ideal for outdoor adventures or trips to the gym.

Our generously-sized large bath towels are designed to give you maximum coverage, allowing you to fully wrap up. According to the average bath towel size chart, a typical towel measures 28” x 54”. Ours measures out to a roomy 30" x 54" for a bit of extra length and width.

Weight

Have you ever found it challenging to determine if a towel is heavy, soft, and absorbent enough - especially when shopping online? It's a common issue when shopping for items that you can't personally handle.

That's why it's essential to know about grams per square meter (GSM) when shopping for towels. A towel's GSM refers to its weight, and the higher the GSM, the better the towel.

Towels with a GSM of 400 or less are typically thinner and less durable, while those with a 500-600 GSM are perfect for daily use - not heavy but not too light.

But, if you're looking for a luxurious soaking sensation, then 600-900 GSM towels are the way to go!

While these towels will provide you with exceptional absorption and softness, keep in mind they will take much longer to dry after your showers and when washing them.

At Southshore Fine Linens, our premium 500-650 GSM bath towels offer a super soft and luxurious feel that only gets softer with every wash.

Style

Nothing makes a post-shower or bath ritual better than enjoying cohesion and style in the bathroom. That is why it's essential to choose towels that match your existing decor, color palette, and bathroom accessories.

Towels are available in almost every color, and there are even certain lines that carry patterns that can help you achieve the perfect look. You can also find small stitched or embroidered details that elevate the look of your towel and create a sense of cohesiveness.

Southshore Fine Linens offers a variety of towels in different colors and styles to fit any home's decor. 

Whether you’re looking for classic whites or something more vibrant, we have a shade that you'll love.

What is the best absorbing material for towels?

The best material for absorbing towels is one that is soft, durable, and highly absorbent. Cotton is one of the most popular materials for towels as it meets all of these requirements.

Cotton towels can be made from different types of cotton, such as Turkish cotton or Egyptian cotton, which are highly absorbent and have long fibers that add to their durability. If you want to find out what is Egyptian cotton you can learn more on our other blog post.

Microfiber is another material that is gaining popularity, largely due to its super-absorbent properties. Bamboo fiber is also known for its ability to absorb water and has the added benefit of being naturally antibacterial.

So, whether you prefer the classic feel of cotton, the quick-drying power of microfiber, or the eco-friendliness of bamboo fiber, there's a highly absorptive fabric out there for you.

Caring for your towels is just as important as choosing the right one. Proper care ensures that your towels stay soft, fluffy, and absorbent for a long time. It's essential to follow the care instructions provided with your towel to ensure longevity.

Here are a few general guidelines to help you care for your towels:

  1. Wash your towels before using them to remove any residue from the manufacturing process.
  2. Avoid using excessive fabric softeners or dryer sheets when washing or drying your towels, as these substances can build up and reduce absorbency over time.
  3. Use warm water and a gentle detergent to wash your towels. Avoid using bleach or harsh cleaning agents that can cause discoloration and damage.
  4. Tumble dry your towels on low heat. Overdrying can make them stiff and scratchy.
  5. Remove your towels from the dryer promptly and fold or hang them to prevent wrinkles.
  6. Refresh your towels between washings by hanging them outside in the sun or misting them with water and giving them a boost in the dryer.

Remember, caring for your towels not only ensures their longevity but also helps maintain their quality and functionality for years to come. 

By following these simple guidelines, you can keep your towels soft, fluffy, and absorbent, ensuring that they provide you with the ultimate comfort and luxury every time you use them.

Want towels that will last a lifetime? Southshore Fine Linens has you covered. Browse our selection of luxury towels today.

Try Southshore Fine Linens today

Two light blue large bath towels from Southshore Fine Linens.

Now that you know what makes a great towel, it's time to start shopping for your own. Keep the above guidelines in mind when choosing a towel and feel free to experiment with different options to learn what works best for you.


Why settle for mediocre towels when you can elevate your home with soft, absorbent, and stylish ones? Indulge in luxury and transform your home with Southshore Fine Linens towels today!