Towels & Bath Linen for Beginners

In depth

Let’s start by talking about the basics of towel and bath linen – it can feel overwhelming at first, but really, it's quite straightforward when you break it down. The biggest thing to understand is that ‘thread count’ isn't always the most important factor in determining how a towel will *feel*. It's a marketing term, largely invented by manufacturers, and often inflated. A high thread count doesn't automatically mean a softer or more absorbent towel; it simply means there are more loops of yarn per square inch. Towels with very high thread counts (above 600) can actually feel stiff because the fibres haven’t had enough time to fully relax into those tight weaves. Don’t get hung up on chasing the highest number – a good quality towel, regardless of thread count, will generally be more comfortable and absorbent.

When you're considering towels, particularly for your first purchase, pay attention to the fibre content. Cotton is by far the most common choice in the UK, and there are several different types of cotton that offer varying levels of softness and absorbency. Egyptian cotton is often touted as being exceptionally soft – it’s a long-staple variety grown in Egypt which produces longer fibres, leading to a smoother yarn. Turkish cotton (Giza) is also highly regarded, similarly prized for its long fibres. However, the term ‘Egyptian cotton’ can be used loosely; make sure you're looking at 100% Egyptian cotton – blends with other materials will inevitably reduce absorbency and softness over time. Standard British cotton, often called ‘terrycloth’, is perfectly adequate for everyday use and represents a solid value.

Alongside the core fibre, consider the ‘weave’. Terry cloth towels are characterised by their looped pile, which creates those familiar bumps you feel when you grab a towel after a shower. This loop is what allows them to absorb water quickly. Microfibre towels have a very fine, tightly woven surface that also offers excellent absorption and dries incredibly fast – they’re lighter than terrycloth and often easier to store. They're particularly good for sports or travel where minimising weight is important. Plain weave towels are less common but can be quite durable and offer a smoother finish. Again, don't get too caught up in the specific weave at this stage; focus on the overall feel of the towel itself – does it seem soft to the touch?

Then there’s the size of the items you’re buying. A standard bath towel is typically around 70cm x 130cm, but sizes can vary slightly. Hand towels are usually smaller, around 50cm x 60cm or 55cm x 75cm. Face cloths are even more compact. Consider how many people you’re regularly drying – a single person might be perfectly happy with a set of two bath towels and four hand towels. A family will naturally need more. It’s better to err on the side of slightly larger sizes, as smaller towels can become too small to effectively dry a full body after a shower.

Now, let's talk about colours and finishes. White towels are generally considered the most hygienic because they don't harbour dirt or bacteria as easily as darker shades. They also tend to brighten up a bathroom space. However, if you prefer a different colour, opt for lighter tones – dark blues, greys, or even pastels will still perform well. Avoid heavily patterned towels initially; solid colours are easier to coordinate with your bathroom décor and won’t show stains as readily. As for finishes, ‘fluffy’ towels are popular but can be more prone to shedding fibres over time. A smoother finish is often more durable and easier to maintain.

Finally, there are some aspects of towel care that you can safely ignore when starting out. The manufacturer will likely provide guidance on washing temperatures (usually 60°C or 90°C), tumble drying settings, and ironing instructions – follow these guidelines as closely as possible to maximise the lifespan of your towels. However, obsessing over things like ‘vinegar treatments’ to soften towels or ‘special detergents’ designed specifically for terrycloth is usually unnecessary. Regular washing with a good quality laundry detergent will keep your towels clean and fresh. Once you're more familiar with how frequently you use them and what level of softness you prefer, you can then start experimenting with different care methods.