13 Best Bath Towels In 2025, Tried & Tested

After a long, stressful day, there’s nothing like unwinding with a soothing soak in a warm bath, followed by wrapping yourself in one of the best bath towels. After all, the restorative properties of hot or cold showers have long been praised, so it goes without saying that a new set of luxury bath towels is a welcome addition to our self-care routines.

While a high-GSM towel may carry a more substantial price tag compared to their budget counterparts, their weighty composition ensures durability and will truly stand the test of time. In short, investing in some heavyweight, absorbent towels or bath sheets is never a waste of money.

Lucky for you, here at GLAMOUR we’ve tried and tested a whole host of the softest bath towels so you know where to head. After multiple cycles in the washing machine and with input from our testers, we’ve curated a list of the best 13 towels to buy right now. So, if your old microfibre towels are feeling thread-bare and crispy, it might be time to invest in some new towels, be they Egyptian cotton towels or the best bath towels on Amazon. Happy browsing!

SKIP TO: FAQ’s – What to look for in a towel | How often should you buy new towels? | How we test bath towels | Is it normal for new towels to shed? | How often should you wash bath towels? | How do you keep towels soft? | Which material bath towel is best? | What size bath towels should I buy? |


What to look for in a towel

When choosing a towel, consider its material, absorbency, durability, and softness. Look for towels made from high-quality materials like Egyptian or Turkish cotton, as they are known for their softness and absorbency. Check the towel’s GSM, as this indicates the quality and density of the fabric. Additionally, consider the towel’s size and colour to ensure it fits your needs and complements your bathroom decor.

  1. Thread count – When it comes to towels, thread count is measured differently than with bedding. Instead of threads per square inch, it’s measured in grams per square meter (GSM). This indicates the density and quality of the towel fabric. You want to be looking at quality towels with a thread count of around 600gsm.
  2. Fabric – Towels are available in a variety of fabrics, each with its own set of advantages. Some of the most common options include Egyptian cotton towels, Turkish cotton towels, and microfibre towels.
  3. Design – Your choice of towel style is entirely dependent on your personal preference. When selecting a design, consider factors such as colour to ensure your bathroom towels blend well with your decor. In addition, consider buying bath sheets which have double-turned edges and double stitching to avoid fraying over time.
  4. Size options – Selecting the appropriate towel size is essential. When browsing for bath towels, you’ll encounter various options ranging from face cloths to extra-large bath sheets. A bath towel or sheet is the perfect size for wrapping around yourself after a bath or shower.

Pros

  • Luxuriously soft and plush.
  • Hydrocotton technology makes them fast to dry.
  • High-quality fabric ensures long-lasting use.

Cons

Pros

  • The textured waffle weave adds a contemporary look.
  • Comfortable and gentle on the skin.
  • Effectively soaks up moisture after a bath or shower.

Cons

  • You won’t be able to buy these as a three piece towel set, but rather individually.

How often should you buy new towels?

The frequency of purchasing new towels varies depending on several factors. Look out for signs of fraying or holes, as well as if they don’t seem to wash as effectively as before. This could indicate it’s time to refresh your collection. The lifespan also depends on the quality of your bath towels. As a general guideline, consider replacing them every 3-5 years. However, having more than one set on rotation can extend their longevity and freshness.

How we test bath towels

Our testers at GLAMOUR rigorously evaluated each bath towel featured in this edit, using them at home for a minimum of 30 days. Adhering to our testing criteria, we assessed each towel on quality, absorbency, size options, drying time, and pre- and post-wash softness. We looked out for signs of wear, pilling, and snags to ensure we outlined any drawbacks. The result? A selection of high-quality bathroom towels to suit everyone’s needs from hotel-style towels to towels suitable for children.

After more interiors content? Head this way for beach towels, bath trays and bath mats – and over here for the best duvet and best mattresses for your best night’s kip yet. For more from GLAMOUR UK’s Commerce Writer Mayola Fernandes, follow her on Instagram @mayolafernandess.

Ahead, the best bath towels of 2025.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *