Towels are such an everyday item, which makes it easy to assume that all towels are the same. However, premium-quality towels stand apart in terms of feel, durability and performance.
What Makes a Towel Premium?
Premium towels are crafted from high-quality, long-lasting materials, allowing them to provide superior softness, absorbency and strength. Simply feeling the towel may not always be enough, as several factors influence its overall quality. It’s important to assess the material, construction and finishing touches.
Material Matters
Premium towels are often made from long staple cotton, such as Egyptian or Pima cotton. These types of cotton have longer fibres, making the towels softer and more absorbent. The longer the fibre, the fewer the seams in the fabric, resulting in a smoother texture. A towel made from these materials feels more luxurious and is less likely to fray after washing.
Bamboo and Turkish cotton are also popular in premium towels. Bamboo towels are known for their softness and eco-friendly properties, while Turkish cotton is highly absorbent and dries quickly, making it ideal for high-end towels.
Weight and Density
A truly premium towel feels substantial. Towels are often rated by their GSM (grams per square metre). High-quality towels usually have a GSM of 500 or more. Towels with higher GSM tend to be denser and more plush, offering a more luxurious feel. Note, however, that a heavier towel doesn’t always mean better quality. It’s about finding the right balance between plushness and absorbency.
Softness and Feel
High-quality towels have a velvety smooth texture, which gets even softer with each wash. A premium towel should feel gentle against the skin, offering a spa-like experience. Towels made from high-quality cotton or bamboo will naturally soften over time, while towels made from synthetic materials may lose their softness.
If the towel feels rough or abrasive straight out of the package, it is likely not of premium quality. Premium towels, on the other hand, feel soft and luxurious from the moment you touch them.
Absorbency
A premium towel should absorb moisture effectively, leaving your skin feeling dry and comfortable. Towels made from long staple cotton or bamboo are particularly absorbent. To test for absorbency, you can dampen it and press it against a dry surface. A premium towel should quickly soak up the moisture without leaving a wet spot.
Durability and Longevity
The finest towels are made with high-quality cotton and strong stitching, ensuring they last for many years. Check the towel for a well-constructed hem and a secure weave. Towel fibres that are tightly woven will last longer and show less wear and tear.
Finishing Touches
Small details make a big difference when it comes to premium towels. Look for those with neatly stitched edges and a high-quality finish. The towel’s edges should be neatly hemmed, with no loose threads. Some premium towels feature a decorative trim, adding an extra touch of elegance.
Finding a truly premium towel involves more than just picking up the first soft option you see. Pay attention to the material, weight, absorbency and overall craftsmanship. Quality towels will not only feel great but will also offer lasting performance, making them a smart investment for your home.
