Why Cotton Beach Towels Are Still the Smart Pick 

For most individuals, cotton beach towels are the ideal choice as they provide a soft feel, are water absorbing and stay comfortable through numerous washings. If you are looking for one towel that can be used at the beach, pool and in the odd road trip, I would begin with cotton. Let me explain why. 

What is it about cotton that is so great? 

Frankly, it’s all about the way it feels. Cotton is soft on sun warmed skin, and absorbs water with a minimum of fuss. That’s what a beach towel is for, and cotton can do it better than you realize. 

This is also a durability aspect. Towel is dragged across sand and dropped on the warm concrete and is rinsed and wrung dry, thrown in the wash and rinsed and wrung again and again. That kind of life can be given to premium cotton, or a good cotton blend, and it will feel nice afterwards. The thin and light towels are short-lived. The good cotton bed towels don’t. Hence, the reason why many people who purchase a good towel never return to the inexpensive one.

Does it Matter if it is Egyptian, Turkish or Organic? 

A little, yes. Those names refer to varying strengths so it’s good to be familiar with what each name offers. 

Egyptian cotton is known for long, silky fibres. Those fibres form a cloth that’s luxuriously soft and yet strong. Turkish cotton is light and absorbent, so it dries out quicker. That’s a big plus if it’s a trip. If sustainability is important to you, organic cotton is gentle on the skin and a lovely fit. 

Not forgetting the weave. Tighter weaves are more absorbent and plush, and lighter weaves absorb less and dry out faster. The nice thing about this is that you do not need to pick one that you will stick with forever. There are a lot of folks who have a cozy towel for lazy weekend beach days and a lighter for travelling. 

Is there any area where larger is superior? 

Often, although not always it helps. The typical beach towel measures 30 x 60 inches. That’s all it takes to dry and sit on. Large sizes can be up to 40 x 70 feet, and they are very popular among those who enjoy reading, sun bathing or just relaxing. The added width is like a gift when sharing with a child or partner. 

The trade off is space in your bag. A bigger towel will require more space, so a medium sized cotton towel may be a good compromise if you are traveling. It’s one of these little choices that you only realize you’ve made the wrong one about after you’ve made it. 

So What is the Secret to Keeping Cotton Soft for Years? 

Most people will trip up on care, and it is an issue that must be taken care of. For the first use, wash the towel before use as this condition the fibres and makes it more absorbent. Don’t use fabric softening products, although it may seem like a good idea at the time. The fibres and cuts wear off over time, which is not desirable. 

If possible, air dry it. Sun drying will help to keep a towel fresh and make it last longer. Also, before putting in to the machine, shake out all the sand so it doesn’t stick to the fibres and damage them. All this really requires is a little work. The trick is to form a habit and by year three, the towel is still soft and comfortable. 

Can a Towel Dry You Off? 

It can, and here’s the part I adore about a good one. The perfect towel to use as a yoga mat cover, picnic blanket, wrap on a windy evening by the sea or a classy travel companion. Try on bold stripes, tropical prints or a more muted neutral color while you’re at it to let your personality come out. 

It’s similar to the soft throws that people have at home. They are comfortable, but end up being utilized in a dozen innovative methods. A beach towel is similar. You purchase it for the beach and then find that it suits the rest of your life as well. 

What are the consequences if the manufacturer gets the weave right? 

That’s where things start to get exciting. Hudson & Company, a U.S. based textile manufacturer with over 25 years of experience, makes fully custom woven blankets and towels, with designs woven right into the fabric. The products are produced in the USA and that woven in method contributes to their durability and high quality. 

They sell to distributors, brands and music industry partners for their festivals, concerts and tours. After all, that’s a sign of something. The construction is important when a towel needs to look good in a fan’s hands and last the long summer. It’s also the reason that I would seek out luxury beach towels that are made with the quality of the fabric. 

So, What Should you take off? 

Opt for cotton fabrics that are soft, absorbent, and long-lasting. Consider the fiber type, the weave and the size. Take care of it properly. Those simple habits make a simple towel a summer essential. 

If you are tempted to buy the lowest priced one on the shelf, reconsider! One of those little things that make a day better is a good towel. From the soft, luxurious weave to a lightweight, easy-to-carry towel, you’ll know the difference the first time you wrap one around your shoulder.