Are Turkish towels better than Egyptian?

Author: Ms. Elisabeth Torp IV  |  Last update: Monday, September 15, 2025

Towels constructed with Turkish cotton are, you guessed it, a bit less absorbent than their Egyptian counterparts. However, the smooth, long nature of Turkish cotton fibers makes for a towel that is both strong and quick-drying.

Are Egyptian or Turkish towels better?

Turkish cotton tends to be less absorbent than Egyptian cotton right out of the gate, building its thirstiness use after use. It also dries lightning fast, which makes it a great choice for anyone who dreads waiting for a towel to air dry or hates wasting utility bills on electric dryer costs.

Which quality of towel is best?

Cotton is the most popular towel material. But not all cotton towels are created equal. High-quality Turkish and Egyptian cotton produce the best, softest, and most absorbent towels. Whether you need them for yourself or your guest bathroom, cotton bath towels are multitaskers and ideal for everyday use.

What is so special about Turkish towels?

Turkish towels are large, flat-woven towels, that were traditionally used in Turkish baths. What's so special about them? They are super absorbent and very quick-drying. They pack light and they are versatile as you can use them in many different ways.

Are Egyptian towels good quality?

When compared to regular cotton towels, Egyptian cotton towels are far and away the better option. As Egyptian cotton is stronger than regular cotton it lasts longer. Over time, whereas regular towels will decline in quality and softness, Egyptian cotton towels will only get softer.

Turkish Towels vs Regular Towels: Which One Should You Choose?

What towels do best hotels use?

Towels made from Egyptian cotton are incredibly soft, durable, and highly absorbent, making them a top choice for luxury hotels and spas.

Is Turkish or Egyptian cotton softer?

Egyptian Cotton and Other Types of Cotton. Compared to “regular” cotton, including pima, Turkish cotton fabric feels softer and more plush due to its longer fibers. Egyptian cotton has the longest fibers, which creates a more plush fabric than Turkish cotton.

How can you tell a quality Turkish towel?

How to Spot a Quality Turkish Towel
  1. Material: Genuine Turkish towels are made from 100% Turkish cotton.
  2. Weave: Look for a tight weave, ensuring durability and absorbency.
  3. Softness: Authentic Turkish towels become softer with each wash.
  4. Reputation: Purchase from a trusted Turkish towel company to ensure authenticity.

Why is my Turkish towel not absorbent?

Washing your towel will open up the fibers of the cotton and help it to better absorb water. Some people like to soak their Turkish towels in a bucket of water to help with this process.

Why are Turkish bath towels so expensive?

The cotton has extra long fibers resulting in a smooth thread, which is then made into a flat woven fabric. Since authentic Turkish towels forgo fast fashion in favor of a slow artistic craft, they are more expensive than other towels.

What is considered luxury in towels?

Material - The best materials for luxury towels

Turkish cotton towels and Egyptian cotton towels are the most popular choices for luxury hotels and spas. However, Aegean Turkish cotton, is considered the absolute best.

How often should I replace towels?

As a general rule, it is recommended to replace your bath towels every two to three years, with five years the maximum. Over time, frequent laundering and normal wear and tear can cause towels to lose their absorbency and become less soft.

How do you tell a good towel?

A: The best towels to buy are towels made from natural fabrics such as cotton, in a durable twist pile for towels that will last longer. We recommend purchasing towels made from Egyptian cotton loop as they are thick, super soft and absorbent and do not shrink when washed.

How long do Turkish towels last?

With proper care, they can last for years while maintaining their softness and absorbency. Whether you're using them at home, on vacation, or for various activities, Turkish towels are a reliable and fashionable choice.

What is the most luxurious towel material?

If you're looking for luxuriously thick and fluffy towels, Egyptian cotton might be the perfect choice for you. Towels made from this material are pillowy soft - not to mention super absorbent - so you'll be warm, cosy, and dry in no time with one of these waiting on the towel rail.

Do Egyptian cotton towels take longer to dry?

Bamboo towels also dry relatively fast, while Egyptian cotton towels take longer. Personal Preference: Consider the feel of the material. Egyptian cotton is the softest and most luxurious, while bamboo is gentle and suitable for sensitive skin. Microfiber towels are soft but may not be as plush as natural fibres.

Can you put Turkish towels in the dryer?

Air Dry or Tumble Dry low heat in gentle cycle. We recommend Air Dry as Turkish towels air dry quickly, so you may hang them to dry. Avoid contact with household cleaners, whitening toothpastes and skin care products containing benzoyl peroxide.

Why do my Turkish towels smell bad?

Towels often become smelly due to two main culprits — bacteria and moisture. Towels are designed to absorb moisture, making them a perfect breeding ground for bacteria, which thrive in damp environments. This bacteria growth can lead to the mildew smell we all dread.

How do hotels get their towels so absorbent?

Hotels typically use towels made from 100% cotton, which is highly absorbent and quick-drying. Additionally, they follow strict laundering practices, such as using the right amount of detergent and avoiding fabric softeners that can leave a residue, ensuring the towels remain absorbent.

What is better Egyptian or Turkish towels?

Consider Softness and Feel

If you prefer towels that are soft from the start, Turkish cotton might be your choice. Egyptian cotton is a good choice for long-term softness and durability.

Are Turkish towels really worth it?

The comfort, absorbency, and style that come with luxury Turkish bath towels make them a worthwhile addition to your home. If you're ready to treat yourself to this luxury, explore the offerings at the Turkish Towel Collection. Your bath experience will never be the same!

What is another name for a Turkish towel?

A fouta or hammam towel is another name for a peshtemal, which is also spelled peştemal or peshtamal. Peshtemals are big, flat, and soft as velvet. These tightly woven beauties are incredibly robust and durable and have a fashionable handcrafted fringe that makes them chic as well as functional.

Which is better Giza cotton or Egyptian cotton?

There are a few varieties of cotton within the ELS family. Among them is Giza cotton, considered one of the finest Egyptian cottons on the market. Giza itself comes in several varieties of its own, with Giza 45 – the queen of Egyptian cotton – at the front of the pack, the longest, finest staple.

What is closest to Egyptian cotton?

At the base level, Pima cotton and Egyptian cotton share a number of similar properties and are both considered premium quality cotton variants.

Why is Turkish cotton so expensive?

This type of cotton has long fibers, which contribute to the towel's softness, absorbency, and durability. Higher-quality materials often come at a higher cost. Traditional Craftsmanship: Turkish towels are woven using traditional techniques that require skilled craftsmanship.

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