Buying the Best Towels in 2026: What to Look For (Buying Guide)
You use a good towel every day, for years. Yet choosing one is tricky: one towel costs €8, another €30, and the packaging is full of terms like GSM, Egyptian cotton and 20/2 yarn. What do they actually mean, and what should you really look for? In this buying guide we explain it step by step, in plain language — so you know exactly which towel suits you.
In short: what to look for when buying towels
- Weight (GSM): the higher, the thicker and softer. For a luxurious feel, choose 500 GSM or more.
- Material: 100% cotton absorbs moisture best. Egyptian cotton feels extra soft and silky.
- Yarn: double-twisted yarn (20/2) makes a towel sturdier and keeps it beautiful for longer.
- Size: pick a size that matches how you use the towel — from guest towel to large bath sheet.
- Certification: an OEKO-TEX® label means the textile has been tested for harmful substances.
- Care: without fabric softener and at the right temperature, a good towel stays soft for years.
1. What is GSM and why does it matter?
GSM stands for grams per square metre: the number of grams of cotton per square metre of fabric. In other words, it tells you how much cotton is in a towel. More cotton means a thicker, softer towel that absorbs more moisture.
| GSM | How does it feel? | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 300–400 | Thin and light, dries quickly | Sport, beach, kitchen |
| 400–500 | Medium thick, pleasant for every day | Daily use |
| 500–600 | Thick and soft, hotel feel | Bathroom, guests, hotels |
| 600–850 | Extra thick and plush, spa feel | Those who want the most luxury, bath mats |
Note: a higher GSM isn't better for everyone. A very thick towel dries more slowly. If you have a small bathroom without good ventilation, 500–600 GSM is often a nice balance. Want that real spa feeling? Go for 650 GSM or more.
2. Which cotton should you choose?
Almost all good towels are made of 100% cotton, because cotton absorbs a lot of moisture and feels soft on the skin. Synthetic blends are cheaper, but don't dry you as well.
Egyptian cotton
Egyptian cotton is known for its long fibres. Long fibres produce a smoother, softer yarn with less lint. A towel made of Egyptian cotton therefore feels silky and stays beautiful for a long time.
Cotton from Pakistan
Pakistan is one of the world's largest cotton and textile producers and is known for thick, sturdy towels. Well-made cotton from Pakistan is soft, strong and highly absorbent — ideal for daily use and for hotels.
3. What does 20/2 yarn mean?
With 20/2 yarn, two threads are twisted together into one stronger thread. This is called double-twisted. The benefit: the towel's loops are sturdier, the towel lasts longer and it still looks good after many washes. That's why hotels often use towels with 20/2 yarn: they are washed hundreds of times. Our Indus Collection and Hotel Line are both woven with 20/2 yarn.
Single-ply yarn often feels a bit softer and airier. Both are good — it's a matter of what you're after: maximum sturdiness or a soft, supple drape.
4. Which size do you need?
| Size | Name | Use |
|---|---|---|
| 30 × 30 cm | Guest towel | Face, hands, guest toilet |
| 50 × 100 cm | Hand towel | Hands, hair, at the washbasin |
| 70 × 140 cm | Bath towel | Drying off after a shower |
| 90 × 160 / 100 × 150 cm | Large bath sheet | Wrapping up completely, sauna |
| 50 × 70 cm | Bath mat | In front of the shower or bath |
Tip: count on at least two bath towels and two hand towels per person, so there's always a clean set ready while the other is in the wash.
5. Why a label like OEKO-TEX® matters
Towels are in contact with your skin every day. The OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 label means the textile has been independently tested for harmful substances. Good for everyone, and especially important if you have sensitive skin or are buying towels for children.
6. How to keep your towels soft
- Wash new towels separately once first. This removes loose fibres and helps the towel absorb moisture better afterwards.
- Don't use fabric softener. Softener leaves a coating on the fibres, so the towel absorbs less moisture.
- Don't use too much detergent. Detergent residue makes towels stiff.
- Tumble dry on low or line dry. Too much heat makes the fibres hard.
- Shake out your towel before hanging it up or putting it in the dryer — this keeps the loops fluffy.
Our collections side by side
At The Linen Room we have three lines, each with its own character. Here's how to choose what suits you:
| Nile Collection | Indus Collection | Hotel Line | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton | 100% Egyptian cotton | 100% cotton from Pakistan | 100% cotton from Pakistan |
| Towels | 600 GSM | 650 GSM, 20/2 yarn | 500 GSM, 20/2 yarn |
| Feel | Silky soft | Extra thick and plush | Sturdy, true hotel quality |
| Colours | Mint Green, Lilac, Light Blue, Powder Pink, Taupe, White | Dark Blue, Sage Green, Old Rose, Anthracite, Light Beige | White |
| OEKO-TEX® | — | Yes | Yes |
| Ideal for | Lovers of soft pastel colours and luxury | Those who want the thickest spa feel | A crisp white bathroom, just like in a hotel |
View the Nile Collection · View the Indus Collection · View the Hotel Line
Frequently asked questions
What is a good GSM for towels?
For daily use, 450–550 GSM is fine. For a luxurious hotel or spa feel, choose 600 GSM or more.
Are Egyptian cotton towels better?
Egyptian cotton has long fibres and therefore feels extra soft and smooth. Well-made cotton from other countries can be just as thick and absorbent. The difference is mainly in the feel: silky (Egyptian) or plush and sturdy.
Why do new towels sometimes absorb poorly?
New towels often still have a protective coating from production. Wash them separately once before use and they will absorb much better afterwards.
How often should you replace towels?
With the right care, a good towel lasts for years. If it becomes stiff or thin, or still smells musty after washing, it's time for a new one.
How quickly will I receive my order?
In the Netherlands and Belgium you'll have your order within 1–2 working days. Shipping is free from €50 and returns are free within 14 days.
Any questions? Email us at info@thelinenroom.nl — we're happy to help you choose.
