
Choosing a perfect towel can be a real headache. There are so many factors to consider - size, thickness, and absorbency. One thing that often gets overlooked is the actual type of fabric it's made from. Unfortunately, it's not something you want to forget about. Did you know that the fabric can affect the towel's durability, softness, and - its ability to dry quickly? We prepared a list of the three best fabrics for your towel.
Bamboo
Bamboo towels are a thing - actually, they're becoming increasingly popular, because they are so soft and eco-friendly. How is bamboo eco-friendly? Well, it is a sustainable crop that requires significantly less water and pesticides than cotton, which is exactly why it's a much more environmentally conscious choice.
Bamboo towels are also naturally antibacterial and hypoallergenic - a great option and an absolute must-have for people with sensitive skin. They are also highly absorbent and really soft, so they have that nice, luxurious feel against the skin.
If you're thinking about getting one, always look for towels made from 100% bamboo or, alternatively, a bamboo-cotton blend. It's best to steer clear of towels labelled as "rayon from bamboo,". This is just code for bamboo fibres that have been processed with the use of chemicals.
Cotton
Cotton is the number one choice for towels in the world, there's no doubt about it. And there's a good reason behind it. It's super soft and highly absorbent. Towels made from cotton are also very durable, so when you get one, they can easily take regular use and washing without getting worn or frayed.
If you're considering buying a cotton towel, we would suggest looking for ones made from high-quality fabrics, like Egyptian or Pima cotton. They have longer fibres, which make the towel much softer and more absorbent. Another piece of advice - make sure you check for a GSM (grams per square meter) rating, which is an indicator of absorbency and thickness. Generally speaking - the higher it is, the better.
If you're looking for a more environmentally-friendly alternative, organic cotton products are a seriously viable option to consider – like this organic bath mat.
Microfibre
Although it is a synthetic fabric made from extremely fine fibres, microfibre is not all bad - especially if you're on a budget. Towels made from microfibre definitely have their strengths; they are highly absorbent, and they dry quickly. If you're looking for a gym or travel towel, you just can't go wrong with microfibre.
On top of that, they are also lightweight and extremely compact, so worry not - they won't take up too much of your precious luggage (or gym bag) space. Oh, and did we mention microfibre towels are also hypoallergenic and antimicrobial? Exactly - they are resistant to bacteria and mould.
So, to sum up, a type of fabric is something we should all take into account when we're shopping for towels. Bamboo, cotton (or organic cotton), microfibre – these are all good options. In the end, it all comes down to your needs, preferences and your budget.