As a Turkish person, I can assure you that Turkish towels are deeply connected to our grand hamam culture. Now, I can hear you thinking, “What the hell is hamam?” If you’re one of the lucky ones who traveled to Turkey, you probably know. But for those who never heard of it—hamam is an ancient bath tradition dating back to Roman times.
While Turkish baths (hamams) go all the way back to Roman and Byzantine times, they are heavily linked with cultural and religious traditions. We are talking about a tradition from the 6th century when modern plumbing didn’t exist. These public gathering places allowed entire communities to enjoy the privilege of clean water and get washed up together.
Everything You Need to Know About Turkish Towels Before Setting On Them
The History of Turkish Towels and Hamam Culture
Let’s talk about how the Turkish bath—hamam—tradition is linked to the world-renowned Turkish towels- perhaps the invention of towels. In these baths, we use a type of towel called pestemal, which is very thin and primarily used to cover your privates in these public bathhouses.
These towels are woven from fabrics that resist germs and moisture. They must dry quickly after washing so they can be reused for the next customer. With these necessities in mind, Turkish towel textile production and its quality dates back centuries.
Meanwhile, modern-day Turkey (the successor of the Ottoman Empire) is one of the best countries to produce quality textiles—if not the best. (I’m mainly pointing out the production rather than designing or branding, like countries such as France or Italy.) The centuries-old tradition of hamam culture combined with Turkey’s modern textile industry created the most sought-after towels in the world. That’s why you’ll also see Turkish cotton as a must-have when shopping for your bedding sets.
What Makes Turkish Towels Special?
These twoels are crafted from 100% Turkish cotton, known for its extra-long fibers. This means fewer joins in the fabric, resulting in a smoother, softer towel that becomes fluffier and more absorbent after each wash. Plus, they’re lightweight and dry faster than regular towels.
Unlike regular towels, Turkish towels are versatile. You can use them as beach towels, bath towels, scarves, or even throws for your new apartment decor.
My Favorite Turkish Towel Brands from Turkey
Haremlique
this Turkish brand has been around for many many years. One of the most prominent brands that you can also purchase in the USA.
Known for luxury textiles, Haremlique is a brand that truly understands sophistication. Their premium towels are designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Made from the finest Turkish cotton, these towels are incredibly soft to the touch yet remarkably durable. Perfect for transforming your bathroom into a spa-like retreat, Haremlique towels add a refined aesthetic that speaks volumes about your taste.
Their timeless designs and superior craftsmanship ensure that these towels not only look luxurious but also stand the test of time, getting softer with every wash.
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Chakra
If you’re looking for a blend of elegance, comfort, and sustainability, Chakra is your go-to. I spend thousands on Chakra every time I do my yearly European summer vacation. It’s much affordable than Haremlique yet It’s a premium brand so don’t expect to find Amazon prices.
Chakra is beloved Turkish brand offers towels made from organic materials, making them both eco-friendly and luxurious. Chakra’s towels are designed with serene color palettes and subtle textures that effortlessly enhance any bathroom decor. Their towels aren’t just beautiful—they’re built to last, offering superior absorbency and softness. I personally adore their bamboo towels which are the softest.
Chakra’s commitment to sustainability ensures you can indulge in luxury while being kind to the planet. Ideal for those who want their home essentials to reflect a conscious lifestyle without compromising on style.
Top Turkish Towel Brands You Can Buy in the US
Brooklinen
I know best for their luxury bedding sets, Brooklinen extends the same plush comfort to their line of Turkish towels a few years back. Crafted from 100% Turkish cotton, these towels are designed to be ultra-soft, highly absorbent, and perfect for everyday use. With a variety of colors and textures, Brooklinen towels seamlessly blend into any bathroom aesthetic, providing both function and flair. Their quick-drying nature makes them ideal for daily use, while the brand’s modern design sensibility ensures a touch of understated elegance.
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Coyuchi
Sustainability is something I always seek whenIt comes to any kind of textile shopping. And Coyuchi offers Turkish towels that tick all the boxes. Made from 100% organic Turkish cotton, these towels provide the ultimate combination of eco-conscious production and luxury feel. Coyuchi’s designs are minimal yet elegant, perfect for those who appreciate clean aesthetics. Their towels are incredibly soft, absorbent, and designed to last. Plus, Coyuchi’s commitment to organic farming and ethical manufacturing means you can feel good about every purchase. Perfect for creating a serene, spa-like atmosphere in your home.
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Parachute Home
Slightly expensive than Brooklinen but pretty much same aesthetics of Milennial love for beiges and neutrals. Parachute Home has redefined everyday luxury with its collection of cotton Turkish towels.
Lightweight, soft, and quick-drying, these towels add a luxurious yet practical touch to your bathroom. The minimalist design complements any decor, while the high-quality Turkish cotton ensures exceptional softness and durability. Parachute’s towels are perfect for those who want their daily essentials to be both beautiful and functional. With their spa-like feel and premium construction, these towels make everyday routines feel like indulgent rituals.
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The Loomia
For those who appreciate artisan craftsmanship, The Loomia delivers handwoven, ethically sourced Turkish towels that are truly one-of-a-kind. These towels are more than just bath essentials—they’re pieces of art.
What I love most about The Loomia is that focuses on quality and ethical production, ensuring each towel is made with care and precision. The intricate patterns and soft textures make them perfect for adding a touch of artisanal charm to your bathroom. Lightweight and versatile, The Loomia towels also work beautifully as beach wraps or stylish throws.
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Crate and Barrel
Combining style with substance, Crate and Barrel offers Turkish towels that fit seamlessly into any new apartment decor. Known for their sleek designs and high-quality textiles, these towels are perfect for those who appreciate modern aesthetics. Crafted from premium Turkish cotton, Crate and Barrel towels are soft, absorbent, and durable. Their chic patterns and neutral tones make them a stylish addition to any bathroom, while their exceptional quality ensures they perform just as well as they look.
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Smyrna Turkish Cotton
I mainly focussed on premium brands but if you are looking for authentic Turkish towels on a budget, SMYRNA will be your brand. They offer an impressive selection available directly on Amazon. These towels are crafted from 100% Turkish cotton, ensuring softness, absorbency, and durability. Available in a variety of stylish patterns and colors, SMYRNA towels provide luxury without the hefty price tag. Ideal for everyday use, they dry quickly and remain fluffy wash after wash. Their affordable pricing and wide availability make them a top pick for those who want to enjoy the benefits of Turkish cotton without breaking the bank.
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How Can You Tell If a Turkish Towel Is Real?
To ensure you’re getting authentic Turkish towels:
- Check the material: It should say 100% Turkish cotton.
- Look at the weave: Authentic Turkish towels are flat-woven (pestemal style).
- Made in Turkey label: The best Turkish towels come directly from Turkey.
Turkish Towels vs. Egyptian Towels: Which One is Better?
Both Turkish and Egyptian towels are luxurious, but they serve different purposes.
- Turkish towels dry faster, making them ideal for beach and travel.
- Egyptian towels are thicker and more absorbent, perfect for a cozy spa-like experience at home.
- If you want multi-purpose, fast-drying towels, Turkish towels are the better pick.
Can Turkish Towels Go in the Dryer?
Absolutely! Turkish towels can go in the dryer, but keep the heat low. High heat can damage the fibers and shorten the lifespan of your towel. For best results, air-dry them to maintain their softness.
Why Do You Soak Turkish Towels?
Soaking Turkish towels before the first use helps loosen the fibers, boosting absorbency. Just soak them in cold water for 12 hours and let them air dry. This step ensures your towel gets softer with every wash.
Are Turkish Towels Expensive?
Not really but they do come in a premium level price. Turkish towels are considered a luxury because:
- They are made from high-quality Turkish cotton.
- The weaving process is intricate and often handcrafted.
- Their durability and versatility justify the price.
How Long Do Turkish Towels Last?
With proper care, Turkish towels can last 5-10 years. Their durable fibers mean they withstand frequent washes, getting softer over time without losing quality.
How to Choose the Best Turkish Towels
When selecting Turkish towels, consider:
- Fabric: Always choose 100% Turkish cotton.
- Weave style: Flat-woven for hamam-style, terry for a plush feel.
- Purpose: Lightweight for travel, thicker for spa days.
- Brand reputation: Opt for reputable brands (we’ll get there next!).
Turkish Towels for Beach, Robes, and Bedding Sets
These towels aren’t just for the bath. Use them as stylish beach towels that dry quickly, robes that feel like a dream, or even as a chic throw over your bedding sets to elevate your bedroom decor.
Our traditional pestemevals love by surfers for years for a reason. They are lightweight and get dry quickly with ocean breeze within 20 minutes or so.
Final Thoughts: Are Turkish Towels Worth It?
In short—YES! With their rich history, unmatched quality, and versatile use, Turkish towels are a worthwhile addition to any home. Whether you’re shopping for luxury Turkish towel brands or looking for the best Turkish towels for your new apartment decor, there’s a perfect match out there for you.
So, next time you spot cotton Turkish towels, you’ll know you’re investing in centuries of tradition blended with modern luxury. Happy towel shopping!
