Towels are one of those everyday essentials that most of us take for granted. Whether you’re stepping out of the shower, wiping your hands in the kitchen, or lying on a beach, there’s a specific type of towel designed for the job and you can even buy luxury towels online if you fancy giving your body a treat! Using the right one not only improves hygiene and comfort but also helps extend the life of your towels. Here are 10 types of towels and what they’re really used for.
1. Bath Towel
This is the standard towel you’ll find in most households. It’s designed for drying off after a bath or shower and is typically made from soft, absorbent cotton.
Typical size: Around 70 x 140 cm
Best used for: Everyday personal drying.
2. Bath Sheet
A bath sheet is essentially a larger, more luxurious version of the bath towel. Its extra size makes it ideal for full-body coverage, especially if you prefer to wrap yourself up completely after bathing.
Typical size: Around 90 x 160 cm
Best used for: Post-bath lounging and a spa-like feel at home.
3. Hand Towel
Smaller than a bath towel, the hand towel is usually placed near sinks in bathrooms or kitchens. It’s convenient for quickly drying your hands throughout the day.
Typical size: Around 40 x 70 cm
Best used for: Hand drying and quick clean-ups.
4. Face Towel / Washcloth
This tiny towel is gentle on the skin and perfect for facial cleansing. Often made from soft, plush materials, it’s commonly used for skincare routines or makeup removal.
Typical size: Around 30 x 30 cm
Best used for: Washing and drying the face.
5. Kitchen Towel / Tea Towel
Often overlooked, the kitchen towel serves many purposes. From drying dishes to wiping surfaces or even acting as a potholder, it’s a versatile tool in any kitchen.
Typical size: Varies
Best used for: Dish drying, hand wiping, and food prep assistance.
6. Beach Towel
These towels are usually longer and thinner than bath towels, with colourful patterns and a quick-drying design. They’re made for lying on sand or drying off after a swim.
Typical size: Around 75 x 150 cm or larger
Best used for: Beach days, sunbathing, and swimming.
7. Gym Towel / Sports Towel
Lightweight and quick-drying, these towels are ideal for fitness routines. They’re small enough to carry in a gym bag but absorbent enough to handle sweat and moisture during workouts.
Typical size: Small to medium
Best used for: Wiping sweat and keeping gym equipment clean.
8. Hair Towel
Specially designed to wrap around your head, hair towels are made from lightweight and super-absorbent fabrics. They help to reduce frizz and speed up drying without the roughness of a standard towel.
Typical size: Varies
Best used for: Gently drying hair after washing.
9. Spa Towel
Used in salons and wellness centres, spa towels tend to be extra soft and generously sized. They’re all about comfort and relaxation and are often made from high-quality cotton or bamboo.
Typical size: Larger and thicker than standard towels
Best used for: Pampering, massage treatments, and luxury self-care.
10. Microfibre Towel
These synthetic fibre towels are incredibly absorbent and fast-drying. Lightweight and compact, they’re a favourite among travellers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Typical size: Varies
Best used for: Travel, camping, sports, and even cleaning.
Choosing the right towel for the right job can make a world of difference. Whether you’re after softness, absorbency, or convenience, there’s a towel made for that purpose. Stocking a variety at home ensures you’re always prepared, no matter the situation.
Which of these towels do you use most often? Let us know in the comments below. And if you found this helpful, feel free to share it with a friend who could use a towel upgrade!