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The 9 Best Bath Towels of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Soft, absorbent, and durable towels you'll love to dry off with

A person folds and sets the Southern Living Turkish Cotton and Modal Bath Towel on a table.

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

When shopping for a new bath towel, you may feel inclined to grab the fluffiest option on the shelf and call it a day—however, you’ll want to look beyond just texture. It’s nearly impossible to predict a towel’s performance just by looking at it, so we did the heavy lifting for you: We researched and tested over 150 top-rated bath towels to find out which ones stood out amongst the rest. 

In our testing, we found that our favorite bath towels had a soft feel, efficient drying time, and maintained their quality despite consistent use. While we tested towels made from a variety of materials, including microfiber, bamboo, and linen, all of the top-performing products were made from cotton or a cotton blend. Whether you're looking for a plush cotton towel or a lightweight, waffle-weave one, these towels passed our tests with flying colors and will make perfect additions to your daily routine.

After over 600 hours of inspecting, soaking, laundering, and drying each bath towel, we narrowed down our list to nine options that we think are the best. We put the towels through their paces in The Lab and our homes, evaluating them by their quality, texture, absorbency, drying time, durability, and overall value. Throughout our testing processes, we closely consider each bath towel's material and construction, how it holds up after washing, and its general performance in real-world settings.

Testing Stats
Products Tested 152
Hours Spent Testing 608+
Tests Performed 6
Unique Testers 114

What to Know Before You Get Started

Before you begin your search for the perfect bath towel, it’s important to understand the importance of a towel's weight/density, which affects the texture, absorbency, and dry time of a towel.

A towel’s weight/density is measured in grams per square meter (GSM). A bath towel’s GSM typically ranges from 300 to 900, and weight tends to be a matter of personal preference.

  • Towels with a weight range of 300 to 400 GSM tend to be lightweight, with a quick dry time.
  • 400 to 620 GSM towels are suitable for everyday use, as they have a medium weight and a moderate dry time.
  • 620 to 900 GSM towels are heavyweight, plush, and take longer to dry.

For more information on what you should know before buying a bath towel, check out our What to Look For in a Bath Towel section.

Editor's Note: This list was updated in February 2024 to include updated lab testing insights on new products.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Pottery Barn Hydrocotton Quick-Dry Bath Towel

Hands dipping Pottery Barn Hydrocotton Organic Quick-Dry Bath Towel in water

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

Our Ratings
  • Quality
    5/5
  • Absorbency
    4.8/5
  • Texture
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Medium-weight is suitable for everyday use

  • Fluffy and dense

  • Highly durable

  • Luxurious, high-end texture

What We Don’t Like
  • Not as absorbent as other options on this list

Earning a near-perfect score in our lab tests, our favorite towel is the Pottery Barn Hydrocotton Organic Quick-Dry Towel—we’ve even retested this product twice and it continues to perform exceptionally across the board. At 550 GSM, this towel offers a medium-weight construction that’s versatile and suitable for most households. 

The towel is made from organic long-staple Turkish cotton, which gives it a standout texture that was amongst the softest we tested. It has a notably luxurious and high-end feel, and we think it offers a great value considering its price point. For reference, our best luxury pick, the Boll & Branch Plush Bath Towel, is around $15 more.

What we love most about this towel is that it offers a premium feel without sacrificing performance and dependability. The texture is fluffy and dense, but not overly so. It has a substantial construction but isn’t too heavy, which makes it both comfortable and effective. Compared to thicker options with slower drying times, this one was only slightly damp by the 30-minute mark and completely dry in one hour, making it a great choice for everyday use. However, while still highly absorbent, note that the Pottery Barn Hydrocotton towel scored slightly lower in our absorbency tests compared to other options on this list.

We did notice that after laundering this towel, the texture became slightly rougher, but the difference was barely perceptible. Additionally, in our testing, we found that this was standard across the board, and many options had a more drastic change after the first wash. The towel also proved highly durable, as it held up well after abrading the fabric and was highly stain-resistant.

Size: 55 x 28 inches | Material: Organic long-staple Turkish cotton | Weight: 550 GSM | Certifications: Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX | Return Window: 30 days

Best Budget

Threshold Quick Dry Ribbed Bath Towel Set

The Threshold Quick Dry Ribbed Bath Towel Set inside of a cabinet

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

Our Ratings
  • Quality
    4.5/5
  • Absorbency
    5/5
  • Texture
    4/5
  • Durability
    4.2/5
  • Value
    5/5

At just $12 for two towels, the Threshold Quick Dry Ribbed Bath Towel Set offers a ton of value with a budget-friendly price tag—but that’s not the only selling point. It’s also a top-performer in terms of its cozy texture, absorbency, and fast dry time. 

The manufacturer says this towel has a weight of around 450 to 550 GSM, making it a versatile medium-weight option. In the lab, we liked its pleasantly soft texture and appealing ribbed design. While it doesn’t have any premium features or frills, we think its a basic yet dependable option that performs as it should. Additionally, this towel earned a perfect score in both absorbency and drying time, so we’re confident it’s effective for everyday use.

However, in our tests, we observed some durability shortcomings worth noting. There was an apparent difference between the texture of the towel before and after laundering, as it felt noticeably more coarse post-wash. Additionally, after abrading the material with a scrub brush, we found that it did not hold up well, as the fibers flattened and shedded from the towel. And although we were able to remove most of the stains in the lab, the foundation leaked through to the opposite side, so you’ll want to make sure you treat both sides of the towel in case of a stain. Despite these concerns, we still think it will hold up over time with proper care.

Size: 54 x 30 inches | Material: Cotton | Weight: 450-550 GSM | Certifications: Made in Green by OEKO-TEX | Return Window: 365 days

How often should you replace bath towels?

Generally, you should replace your towels every two years. If your bath towels are not absorbing water as well as they used to, developing odors after one use, or have frayed edges and holes, it is time for you to replace them. However, high-quality towels tend to last longer, so you may get away with more time between purchases.

Best Luxury

Boll & Branch Plush Bath Towel

Boll & Branch Plush Bath Towel and washcloth displayed on table next to vase and laundry basket

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

Our Ratings
  • Quality
    5/5
  • Absorbency
    4.5/5
  • Texture
    5/5
  • Durability
    4.5/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
What We Like
  • High-quality construction

  • Very absorbent

  • Plush and soft texture

  • Dense, substantial weight

What We Don’t Like
  • Softness fades in time

Depending on your schedule, bath towels are an item you’ll use nearly every day—so oftentimes, it’s worth it to splurge. Out of the dozens of towels we've tested, Boll & Branch’s Plush Bath Towel is one of our top choices for its quality construction, impressive performance, and thoughtful design. Made with organic long-staple cotton, these towels have a soft and plush feel you’ll appreciate use after use. Even after multiple runs through the washer and dryer, this towel continued to feel like a luxury product.

A main selling point of the Boll & Branch Plush Towel is its absorbency. During our real-world testing, this towel soaked up water quickly and effectively, and it felt cozy to wrap up in after a hot shower. In our tests, the towel scored exceptionally well in terms of absorbency. We were also pleasantly surprised by how quickly it dried, despite its plushness and density. 

Over the course of six months, though, we’ve noticed some changes in this towel’s texture after consistent use. Although this towel was super plush and fluffy for the first couple of months of testing, we noticed it got less soft and a bit rougher after around six to ten rounds in the washing machine. While it’s still plenty thick, it’s no longer as soft as it was upon arrival. 

That being said, we haven’t found any loose threads, snags, or other signs of wear and the quality has held up very well. However, we have had to swap this towel out in the California summertime because it was a bit too thick to dry between uses. All things considered, while this product is more expensive than other options we tested, we think it’s well worth the price tag considering its luxurious texture and top-notch performance.

Size: 58 x 30 inches | Material: Organic long-staple cotton | Weight: Not listed | Certifications: GOTS-certified organic cotton, OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Return Window: 30 days

Best Waffle Weave

Boll & Branch Waffle Terry Bath Towel

The Boll & Branch Waffle Terry Bath Towel inside of a cabinet

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

Our Ratings
  • Quality
    5/5
  • Absorbency
    5/5
  • Texture
    4.5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    4.3/5
What We Like
  • Dual-sided design offers both terry cloth and waffle weave

  • Lightweight yet durable

  • High-end construction with convenient hanging loop

What We Don’t Like
  • Waffle weave can take some getting used to

Lightweight and exceptionally absorbent, waffle weave towels are a highly effective and design-forward alternative to your standard terry cloth towel. Our favorite of the category is the Boll & Branch Waffle Terry Bath Towel, which seriously impressed us with its thoughtful design, unique construction, and impressive durability. 

If you’re used to using thick and fluffy towels, waffle weave towels may take some getting used to. However, this towel offers a dual-sided design that offers both a terry cloth material on one side and a waffle knit on the other. Although it still won’t offer the same weight as plusher towels, it’s a great pick for those who are looking for a lightweight, compact, and effective towel. 

Boasting a high-end construction, we love that there’s a hook loop for easy hanging when not in use. It’s also highly absorbent and quick-drying, earning perfect scores in both categories. While this towel is on the thinner side, it’s surprisingly durable. There was no change in texture or quality even after abrading the material, which is a good indication of the strength of the fibers.

Size: 58 x 30 inches | Material: Organic long-staple cotton | Weight: Not listed | Certifications: GOTS-certified organic cotton, Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX | Return Window: 30 days

Best Quick-Drying

Frontgate Egyptian Cotton Bath Towels

The Frontgate Egyptian Cotton Bath Towel inside of a cabinet

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

Our Ratings
  • Quality
    4.8/5
  • Absorbency
    5/5
  • Texture
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
What We Like
  • Dense, heavyweight construction

  • Maintains softness and quality over time

  • Surprisingly quick drying time considering its plushness

What We Don’t Like
  • Bulkier than other options

Reaching for a still-damp towel after stepping out of the shower can be particularly unpleasant; luckily, quick-drying options can help prevent that. The Frontgate Egyptian Cotton Bath Towel boasts an efficient drying time, making it an ideal pick if you live in a humid climate or take more frequent showers. What’s more, a faster drying time can help prevent musty smells that occur since mildew thrives in moist environments.

We’ve actually re-tested the Frontgate Resort Cotton Bath Towel multiple times, and it’s consistently one of the top performers across the board. This towel has a thick, luxe, hotel-quality feel that holds up wash after wash. Despite its substantial construction, it was completely dried in just around 30 minutes, making it the fastest drying option we tested.

During our testing in the lab, we found this to be a slightly longer-than-average towel, which makes it perfect for taller users or those who like more coverage. Available in a whopping 27 colors, it’s made with long-staple, finely-combed Turkish cotton for a soft, blanket-like texture. The large, loop-pile weave and 800 GSM weight give it a plush feel that’s a step above the rest—it’s actually the heaviest option on this list, so its impressive drying time is especially notable. Plus, the thick decorative border lends the towel some extra sophistication. Just note that because of its thickness, this towel is bulkier and may take up more real estate in your linen closet

According to Whitney Thornburg, design director at Coyuchi, absorbency is one of the most important factors to consider when shopping for towels. “A great way to check [a towel’s absorbency] is to just spill a bit of water onto your towel. It should immediately be absorbed—not pill or bead on the towel,” she says. “If it doesn’t dry you off post-shower, it’s not doing its job.” During testing, we were particularly impressed with this towel’s absorbent properties: It was able to soak up to a quarter of a cup of water in just a few minutes, and it dried our hands in two passes.

In our long-term testing of this towel, we grew to love it even more. After three months, we found that it maintained its fluffy, spa-like feel and was easy to launder. While some shoppers might wish the price were a tad cheaper so it'd be easier to stock up on several at a time, we think the towel is well worth the investment.

Size: 58 x 30 inches | Material: Long-staple Turkish cotton | Weight: 800 GSM | Certifications: None listed | Return Window: 90 days

How do you store bath towels?

How you store your bath towels is up to you. Towel bars and rings, wall shelves, over-the-door towel racks, towel stands, heated racks and bins, and over-the-toilet units are all different types of organizing systems that can hold your towels. You can simply hang them over the bars or rings or fold or roll them and place them on shelves, in baskets, and more. Check out some of our favorite towel storage solutions below:

Best Set

Crane & Canopy Plush Towel Bundle

The Crane & Canopy Plush Towel in a cabinet

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

Our Ratings
  • Quality
    4.8/5
  • Absorbency
    5/5
  • Texture
    5/5
  • Durability
    4.8/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
What We Like
  • Cozy and plush

  • Durable and stain-resistant

  • Absorbent and quick-drying

  • Monogramming available

What We Don’t Like
  • Fragile towel hook loop

If you’re looking to upgrade your bath towels, washcloths, and hand towels all at once, check out the Crane & Canopy Plush Towels. You can either purchase the bath towels individually, or  as a bundle for added convenience.  

During lab testing, we were immediately impressed by the luxurious texture of this towel. It feels plush and supremely soft with a moderately-dense weight of 600 GSM. This product also comes with a hanging loop, but we noted that it felt a bit weak and prone to tearing. In general, though, the construction quality was sound and the towels boasted a high-end look.

Based on our lab tests, we think it's an upgrade from most everyday towels. We found it handled our stain and abrasion tests quite well, suggesting impressive durability. We also appreciate how absorbent and quick-drying this towel is despite its substantial weight—we gave it a high score in both testing categories. 

This set comes with two washcloths, two hand towels, and two bath towels for $135. Plus, you can personalize your towels by adding a monogram for an extra $10, which may be worth it if you live in a larger household and want to keep track of which towel belongs to who.

Size: 56 x 30 inches | Material: Long-staple Turkish cotton | Weight: 600 GSM | Certifications: None listed | Return Window: 30 days

Softest Bath Towel

Southern Living Turkish Cotton and Modal Bath Towel

Person holding folded Southern Living Turkish Cotton and Modal Bath Towels

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

Our Ratings
  • Quality
    5/5
  • Absorbency
    5/5
  • Texture
    5/5
  • Durability
    4.5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Luxurious texture

  • Visually appealing design

  • Absorbent, heavyweight construction

What We Don’t Like
  • Longer drying time

A soft towel can enhance your bathroom routine, and Southern Living’s Turkish Cotton and Modal Towel provides a truly cozy experience. (Southern Living is owned by The Spruce’s parent company, Dotdash Meredith.) During lab testing, we were huge fans of the towel’s fluffy and plush texture, which we couldn’t get enough of. 

We also were impressed with its attractive design, which featured a decorative series of five double-welts on each end rather than the standard band. The loops seemed durable and compact, and we found no visible imperfections upon arrival. This towel was definitely on the heavier side at 700 GSM, which means it has a dense, sturdy construction.

Although the towel earned a perfect score in our absorbency test, we did find it took a bit longer to completely dry (around two hours) than some other options we tested. However, this tends to be standard for plusher, heavier towels. After following the care instructions, we appreciated just how well the product held up. The soft texture didn’t change post-wash, and the towel felt as good as new with no signs of wear.

What’s more, after six months of consistent use, the towel’s performance, texture, and overall quality have stood the test of time. The towel is just as soft as it was when it first arrived, which is especially impressive since many tend to lose their plushness over time. This thick towel has proved to be highly durable over time, with no signs of wear.

Size: 56 x 30 inches | Material: 80 percent cotton, 20 percent modal | Weight: 700 GSM | Certifications: None listed | Return Window: 30 days

What’s the best way to care for a bath towel?

Believe it or not, caring for your towels is not as simple as just throwing them in the wash. All bath towels should be washed before you first use them as this will wash off the finish they have and help with absorbency.

Bath towels should never be laundered with fabric softener, which will add a film onto the towel and weaken the absorbency. “If you like the scent of fabric softener, you can add a few drops of your favorite essential oils to your dryer balls in the last 10 minutes of the load, after everything is already mostly dry,” says Whitney Thornburg, design director at Coyuchi.

Your towels should be laundered more often than you think (ideally every three uses!) and should be washed with other towels at the highest temperature the label says they can handle. Use a gentle detergent and dry on low or medium heat with wool dryer balls to help speed up the drying time and control static.

Best Lightweight

Parachute Fouta Stripe Towels

The Parachute Fouta Stripe Towels on a wood shelf with a body scrub brush on top.

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Our Ratings
  • Quality
    4.8/5
  • Absorbency
    4.5/5
  • Texture
    5/5
  • Durability
    4.5/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
What We Like
  • Stylish design

  • Maintains quality and texture well over time

  • Lightweight and versatile

  • Soft and smooth texture

What We Don’t Like
  • Some snags upon arrival

  • Some shedding in the beginning

For a lightweight and highly absorbent bath towel, you can’t go wrong with Parachute’s Fouta Stripe Towels. Note that this product is available in bath towel and bath sheet sizes—we purchased the bath sheets, which provided ample coverage. Like most Turkish bath towels, this product is thinner and less plush than your standard terrycloth towel. However, at 450 GSM, it’s not flimsy either. 

We loved how soft these towels were, and they felt noticeably smooth compared to other options we tested. Similar to the Boll & Branch Waffle Terry Bath Towel (our best waffle weave pick), this product also has a dual-sided design. One side of the towel features a flat weave while the other is terry cloth. While the overall construction quality was evident, we did notice a few snags upon arrival.

In the lab, this towel was very absorbent and quick-drying. This bath towel also held up nicely after consistent laundering, with no changes in quality besides some slight wrinkling. It held up just alright during our abrasion test, with some changes in texture and quality but no additional tears or loose threads. However, this is to be expected with thinner towels. What’s more, this towel performed admirably in our stain test. 

This towel also stood out in terms of aesthetic appeal, as the striped design offers a refined look. It’s also a great option if you’re low on storage space, as these towels fold up to be much more compact than your average towel. 

After one month of testing this towel in our homes, we found that it performed very well in the summertime, as the lightweight construction was very comfortable and it dried in a snap. However, we did notice that it shedded a bit after the first few washes. Overall, though, it has maintained its quality quite well. While it's on the pricey side and won't appeal to folks who love a super-plush towel, we love this lightweight, versatile towel. 

Size: 56 x 30 inches | Material: Long-staple Turkish cotton | Weight: 450 GSM | Certifications: Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX | Return Window: 60 days

Best Heavyweight

Saatva Plush Towels

The Saatva Plush Towel in a cabinet

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

Our Ratings
  • Quality
    5/5
  • Absorbency
    5/5
  • Texture
    5/5
  • Durability
    4.8/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
What We Like
  • Thick, plush, and cozy

  • Very absorbent

  • High-quality construction

What We Don’t Like
  • Moderate drying time

A heavyweight towel can provide a soft and luxurious feel when drying off after a steamy shower, allowing for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience compared to thinner, rougher towels. Saatva’s Plush Towels boast a thick and cozy texture and a substantial construction that we loved. These towels were amongst the most absorbent we tested, and felt very high-quality. It’s very soft with a medium pile, tight and closely packed loops, and a unique decorative band. 

In our tests, we found that the towel was not completely dry after one hour, while most other options on this list were. That being said, it was only slightly damp, and we think its drying time is more than reasonable given its density. This bath towel was also in near-perfect shape post-wash, other than one loose thread at the corner of the towel. In the lab, we noted how high-end and plush this bath towel felt after laundering. 

Size: 58 x 30 inches | Material: Long-staple cotton | Weight: Not listed | Certifications: Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX | Return Window: 45 days

Compare

Quality Absorbency Texture Durability Value Size Material Weight
Hands dipping Pottery Barn Hydrocotton Organic Quick-Dry Bath Towel in water
Best Overall:
Pottery Barn Hydrocotton Quick-Dry Bath Towel
5 4.8 5 5 5 28 x 55 inches 100% organic Turkish cotton 550 GSM
The Threshold Quick Dry Ribbed Bath Towel Set inside of a cabinet
Best Budget:
Threshold Quick Dry Ribbed Bath Towel Set
4.5 5 4 4.2 5 - - -
Boll & Branch Plush Bath Towel and washcloth displayed on table next to vase and laundry basket
Best Luxury:
Boll & Branch Plush Bath Towel
5 4.5 5 4.5 4.5 30 x 58 inches Organic cotton 700 GSM
The Boll & Branch Waffle Terry Bath Towel inside of a cabinet
Best Waffle Weave:
Boll & Branch Waffle Terry Bath Towel
5 5 4.5 5 4.3 - - -
The Frontgate Egyptian Cotton Bath Towel inside of a cabinet
Best Quick-Drying:
Frontgate Egyptian Cotton Bath Towels
4.8 5 5 5 4.5 - - -
The Crane & Canopy Plush Towel in a cabinet
Best Set:
Crane & Canopy Plush Towel Bundle
4.8 5 5 4.8 4.5 - - -
Person holding folded Southern Living Turkish Cotton and Modal Bath Towels
Softest Bath Towel:
Southern Living Turkish Cotton and Modal Bath Towel
5 5 5 4.5 5 - - -
The Parachute Fouta Stripe Towels on a wood shelf with a body scrub brush on top.
Best Lightweight:
Parachute Fouta Stripe Towels
4.8 4.5 5 4.5 4.5 30 x 56 inches Turkish cotton 450 GSM
The Saatva Plush Towel in a cabinet
Best Heavyweight:
Saatva Plush Towels
5 5 5 4.8 4.5 - - -
Final Verdict

Our best overall bath towel is the Pottery Barn Hydrocotton Organic Quick-Dry Towel, a luxurious option that earned high marks for its exceptional softness and efficient drying time. We also recommend the Threshold Quick Dry Ribbed Bath Towel Set, our best budget pick, a highly absorbent and durable option made from cotton.

Other Options We Tested

These products are ones we tested and found impressive. Though they fell a bit short of our standards, we think they’re still worth considering.

West Elm Everyday Textured Organic Towels

West Elm Everyday Textured Organic Towels

West Elm

The West Elm Everyday Textured Organic Towels performed relatively well during our lab and home tests, proving to be a basic but reliable option. It garnered high marks for its absorbency and even fully dried within the two-hour testing window. During our long-term testing, we found the towel large enough for comfortable coverage and durable enough to hold up to consistent laundering and everyday use. However, we didn’t find the texture to be as soft as other options we’ve tested, and its thin construction might be unappealing if you love a plush towel. While it gets the job done, we still think our best budget pick, the Casaluna Organic Bath Towels, offers more bang for your buck in terms of overall value.

Parachute Classic Turkish Cotton Towel

Parachute Classic Turkish Cotton Towels

Parachute

In our testing, we found the Parachute Classic Turkish Cotton Towel to be a solid heavyweight option for those who prefer a plush, fluffy texture. Upon arrival, we were impressed with its thoughtful design, as the towel features a ribbed border and boasts a luxurious, hotel-quality construction. At 700 GSM, this is one of the heavier options we tested and has a thick, substantial weight. However, it took around 90 minutes to dry, which is longer than other options but still seems reasonable considering its thickness. Post-wash, the towel held up nicely, but we did notice it lost some of its softness. In general, when put head-to-head against our best plush pick, the Southern Living Turkish Cotton and Modal Bath Towel, we found the two are very similar in terms of texture and construction, but ultimately the Parachute Classic Turkish Cotton Towel fell short in terms of durability and value.

Cozy Earth The Premium Plush Bath Sheets

Cozy Earth Plush Bath Sheets

Cozy Earth

In general, this towel performed very well in both our lab and real-world tests. The towel was very absorbent and helped us get dryer and warmer post-shower. We loved its cozy and plush texture, and it had a reasonable drying time and was an effective pick in our long-term testing. However, at $160 for a set of two, we think there are other comparable options available at a much more affordable price. When compared to some of the other options we tested, we found its performance to be similar, and it didn’t warrant the steep price tag in our opinion—but if you’re looking for a super sumptuous towel and don’t mind spending a premium for the texture, it might be worth the splurge.

Nordstrom Hydrocotton Bath Towel

Nordstrom Hydrocotton Bath Towel

Nordstrom

Luxuriously cozy at a moderate price point, the Nordstrom Hydrocotton Bath Towel was one of our top contenders in terms of texture and value. During lab testing, we were immediately impressed by the overall quality of this towel, as the loops were long, narrow, and densely packed. The texture of the towel felt lightweight, plush, and fluffy, providing an ideal post-shower experience. We also appreciated just how absorbent this towel was, earning a perfect score in that category. It took just under an hour to dry, which tends to be standard for thicker towels. While this was one of the softest towels we tested, we found that after following the care instructions, it had lost a bit of its plushness. So despite performing very well on most fronts, we found that it just slightly fell short compared to our current softest bath towel, the Restoration Hardware Ultra-Soft Turkish Towel Set.

Target Opalhouse Multi Striped Sonoma Bath Towel

Opalhouse Multi Striped Sonoma Bath Towel

Target

While we love the playful, bold design of this towel, we found that it fell short in terms of performance compared to other options we tested. Upon arrival, we found that the towel had a medium weight, but wasn’t very plush or thick. It had a soft texture, but it wasn’t as soft as other picks on our list. Additionally, the towel was on the smaller side, which may pose an issue for those who prefer more coverage. After following the care instructions, we were disappointed to find that the towel lost a bit of its softness, as the texture felt slightly rougher than it did pre-wash. In terms of absorbency, this towel performed well, but it did take over two hours to fully dry. This dry time is very long compared to other towels of a similar weight and size. Although it didn’t excel across the board during our tests, we still think it's worth considering if you prioritize aesthetics over performance.

How We Tested the Bath Towels

To help you make the best choice for your needs, we've tested 152 bath towels in The Lab and at home. We routinely test new bath towels at The Spruce so that we can keep this list updated with the most effective options. 

In our latest round of testing, we evaluated the towels based on quality by inspecting the bath towels both before and after following the care instructions. We looked for any loose threads, pilling, snags, and imperfections in the stitching, dye, or pattern. We also noted any specifics about each option, including the fiber content, weight, and weave. Next, we assessed the texture of each bath towel, considering its softness, thickness, and weight, among other qualities. In our testing, we found that almost all the towels we tested became slightly less soft in texture post-wash, and some options changed more drastically than others.

To determine each towel's absorbency, we test how well each towel soaked up moisture from both our hands and a bowl of water. We conducted each test before and after laundering the towels to see if there was any difference in performance. To test the drying time, we hung each wet towel on a drying rack and timed how long it took to dry. All of our top picks were either completely or mostly dry in just one hour, which is ideal for those who take frequent showers.

We also conducted a stain test using mascara and foundation—after spot-treating the stains and laundering each towel, we inspected the previously stained area and noted how well the stain lifted. Note that almost all of the options we tested came out stain-free. We also carefully followed care instructions and judged whether there were any signs of wear, imperfections, wrinkles, or shrinkage post-wash. Our durability tests also consisted of abrading each towel with a scrub brush and noting how this affected the texture and quality. Finally, we assessed the bath towels’ value by comparing their retail prices with their overall quality. 

In addition to our standard in-lab testing, we conducted long-term home testing to see how the towels held up over time, checking in after six months. For long-term testing, we took the highest-performing lab-tested bath towels and used them in our own houses to note how they performed in real-world situations. We analyzed our testing scores and insights, along with our supplemental research, to compile this list of the best bath towels on the market.

The Spruce Team Finds the Best Bath Towels

What to Look for in a Bath Towel

Material

While many people don’t think about the fibers their towels are made from, this is one of the most important considerations, as fibers perform differently in terms of absorbance, softness, colorfastness, and durability. In our latest round of testing, we found that all of our favorite picks were made from cotton or a cotton blend, despite testing a range of fabrics, including microfiber, bamboo, and linen.

There are several types of cotton towels available, including Egyptian cotton, Turkish cotton, organic cotton, Supima cotton, and more. Egyptian, Turkish, and Supima cotton towels are the most luxurious types you can buy and tend to have a higher price point than towels made from other materials. They are typically made from long-staple fibers, so they are super soft and absorbent—our best overall bath towel, the Pottery Barn Hydrocotton Organic Quick-Dry Towel, is made from 100 percent organic long-staple Turkish cotton. The Frontgate Cotton Bath Towel (our best quick drying pick) is another great option made from Egyptian cotton.

If you prefer to shop organic, there are many great options available. These towels are generally made from 100 percent cotton and are certified by a third-party vendor. These towels are made from cotton that is not treated with pesticides. These are very soft and plush but may take longer to dry than other options. Multiple products on this list are made with GOTS-certified organic cotton, including our best luxury option, the Boll & Branch Plush Bath Towel.

Testing towels

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

Size

You should always check the size of bath towels before you buy them. There’s nothing worse than getting your towels home and realizing they’ll barely wrap around your body! Standard bath towels are usually between 27 to 30 inches wide and 52 to 58 inches long. Towels that are 27 x 52 inches may be perfect for smaller adults, but they likely won’t suffice for larger adults. Keep this in mind, especially if you’re shopping online and can’t see the towel in person before you buy.

Bath Towels vs Bath Sheets

The Spruce / Bailey Mariner

If you want to bundle yourself up in a towel, look for bath sheets, which are larger, spa-like towels that typically measure between 35 to 40 inches wide and 60 to 70 inches long. As you might expect, they generally cost more than standard towels. Many of our favorite bath towels also come in bath sheet sizes, including our best heavyweight pick, the Saatva Plush Towels, which are oversized and reliably cozy.

Weight

All fabrics, including towels, have a weight that’s measured in GSM, or grams per square meter. In general, towels typically weigh between 300 and 900 GSM—the lower the number, the lighter the towel will be (and the quicker to dry). There’s no “right” towel weight; it’s simply a matter of personal preference. Some people like lighter towels, while others prefer heavy, dense ones. 

As a general rule of thumb, towels with a GSM of 300-400 are great for humid areas, while products between 400 and 600 GSM offer a happy medium between plush and lightweight. The lightest option we recommend is the Parachute Fouta Stripe Towels at Parachute (our best lightweight pick), at 450 GSM. On the opposite side of the spectrum, towels that weigh more than 600 GSM are often considered “luxury” products. 

There are some key performance differences associated with various towel weights that are important to factor into your purchasing decision. For instance, products with a low GSM typically dry faster but aren’t as absorbent. An example of this is a lightweight beach towel. On the other hand, heavy towels with a high GSM are the most absorbent and plush, but as such, they generally take longer to dry. While this is typically the case, we were surprised to find in our testing that our best quick drying pick, the Frontgate Egyptian Cotton Bath Towel, actually ended up being our heaviest option at 800 GSM.

Absorbency

Absorbency is another important consideration when purchasing towels, but this factor is often hard to discern when you’re shopping in-store or online. There’s no way to measure a towel’s absorbency without trying it, but you can look for a few indicators that a towel will soak up plenty of water.

For one, thicker, heavier towels are generally more absorbent, as previously noted. This means towels with a higher GSM will soak up more water—but, remember, they take longer to dry out. Further, towels made from premium cotton varieties, such as Egyptian or Pima cotton, tend to be more absorbent, as are products made from a cotton-rayon blend.

One of the most absorbent towels we’ve tested is the Southern Living Turkish Cotton and Modal Bath Towel (our best plush pick), which has a heavyweight construction and earned a perfect score in this category.

Construction

As you shop for towels, it’s important to know towels are categorized by their construction. Each types has its own set of strengths and weaknesses:

  • Terrycloth towels, like the Threshold Quick Dry Ribbed Bath Towel Set (best budget), are some of the most common, as they're very absorbent, soft, and typically made from cotton. These are made from small loops of fabric woven together.
  • Waffle-weave towels, like Boll & Branch Waffle Terry Bath Towel (best waffle weave), are not as plush as your standard terrycloth towel, but they are absorbent, lightweight, and fast-drying. These are characterized by a honeycomb pattern on the surface of the towel.
  • Turkish bath towels, like the Parachute Fouta Stripe Towels at Parachute (best lightweight), are similar to waffle-weave towels; both are lightweight, but Turkish bath towels tend to be even more absorbent and quick-drying. Additionally, Turkish bath towels tend to be oversized.
Testing towels

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was written by Bianca Pineda, a commerce writer who specializes in bedding, bath, and home decor at The Spruce. To compile this list, she consulted lab and long-term testing insights, assessed numerous customer reviews, and conducted supplemental research about the topic. All of the products in this roundup met our quality standards during the research process and performed the best during our lab and home tests. She has also worked on numerous other related roundups, including Best Bath Sheets, Best Showerheads, Best Small Bathtubs, and Best Bath Pillows.

Our Experts:

The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Koester, Ardis W. How to Prevent and Remove Mildew in the Home. Oregon State University Extension Service.

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