Understanding Different Types of Towels: A Complete Guide for Buyers

When sourcing towels for retail, hospitality, or wholesale supply, understanding the different types of towels is crucial. Each serves a specific purpose based on size, fabric weight (GSM), type of yarn, and finishing.

Why Knowing Towel Types Matters

Choosing the correct towel ensures customer satisfaction, especially in industries like hospitality and retail. Factors like absorbency, softness, and durability depend on the towel's GSM, yarn quality, and size.

1. Bath Towel

Purpose: Regular post-shower or bath drying.

Key Features:

• Size: 27 x 52 inches (68 x 132 cm) to 30 x 56 inches (76 x 142 cm)

• Ideal GSM: 400 to 600 GSM

• Yarn Type: Ring spun or combed cotton, sometimes zero-twist yarn for premium softness.

Why It Matters:Bath towels are a daily-use essential, balancing absorbency and ease of drying. Common in homes, hotels, and spas.

2. Bath Sheet

Purpose: Larger than a bath towel, offering more coverage.

Key Features:

• Size: 35 x 60 inches (90 x 152 cm) to 40 x 70 inches (100 x 180 cm)

• Ideal GSM: 500 to 700 GSM

• Yarn Type: Premium combed or Egyptian cotton, zero-twist yarn.

Why It Matters:Preferred in luxury settings, bath sheets offer a spa-like experience with superior softness and coverage.

3. Hand Towel

Purpose: Drying hands and face.

Key Features:

• Size: 16 x 28 inches (40 x 71 cm)

• Ideal GSM: 300 to 500 GSM

• Yarn Type: Ring spun cotton.

Why It Matters:Found in washrooms, kitchens, and guest areas. Compact yet absorbent.

4. Face Towel / Washcloth

Purpose: Gentle face cleansing and washing.

Key Features:

• Size: 12 x 12 inches (30 x 30 cm)

• Ideal GSM: 250 to 450 GSM

• Yarn Type: Soft ring spun or bamboo-cotton blend.

Why It Matters:Lightweight and skin-friendly, especially important for facial use and sensitive skin.

5. Bath Mat

Purpose: Stepping out of the shower or bath, absorbs water from feet.

Key Features:

• Size: 20 x 34 inches (50 x 85 cm)

• Ideal GSM: 700 to 900 GSM

• Yarn Type: Heavyweight ring spun cotton or combed cotton.

Why It Matters:High absorbency and non-slip features make bath mats essential in bathrooms for both safety and hygiene.

GSM (Grams per Square Meter) Explained

Why GSM Matters: GSM indicates towel thickness and absorbency.

• Low GSM (250-400): Lightweight, quick-drying. Suitable for washcloths and face towels.

• Medium GSM (400-600): Standard bath towels. Balance between absorbency and drying time.

• High GSM (600-900): Luxurious bath sheets and bath mats. Thicker and softer, but take longer to dry.

• 
  

Choosing the Right Yarn for Towels

• Ring Spun Cotton: Strong, smooth, ideal for everyday use.

• Combed Cotton: Higher quality, softer with longer fibers.

• Zero-Twist Cotton: Ultra-soft and plush. Best for luxury towels.

• Bamboo Cotton Blend: Eco-friendly, naturally antibacterial, and ultra-soft.

• 
  

Conclusion

For wholesale buyers, importers, and hospitality clients, understanding towel specifications ensures you select the right products for your market. At Daswani Exports, we offer customizable sizes, GSM ranges, and yarn types tailored to your needs.

Get in Touch

Visit www.daswaniexports.com or email us at daswaniexports@gmail.com for product catalogs and quotations.