Towel Buying Guide for Hotels: Sizes, Fabrics, and Budgeting

Towel Buying Guide for Hotels: Sizes, Fabrics, and Budgeting

Elevate Everyday Comfort with Harbourloom Towels

Wrap yourself in everyday luxury with Harbourloom’s thoughtfully crafted Towels. Woven from 100% Aegean Cotton and OEKO-TEX® certified for safety and sustainability, our towels deliver exceptional softness, timeless design, and superior absorbency. Explore the collection inspired by refined living—where comfort meets elegance and every detail is made to enhance your daily rituals.

Written by Noa Bellamy 

Elevate Guest Experience With Smart Towel Choices

In hospitality, details make the difference and towels are no exception. The right towels don’t just dry; they define the comfort, luxury, and cleanliness your guests feel. Whether you are running a boutique inn or a high-traffic hotel, investing in quality towels tailored to your needs is key.

At Harbourloom, we craft our towels using 100% Aegean Cotton OEKO-TEX® certified for quality and safety. But beyond softness, what makes a towel hotel-worthy? Let’s break it down.

Why Towels Matter in the Hotel Industry

Towels are one of the most used and most noticed amenities in any hotel room. A scratchy, thin towel can leave a negative impression. Meanwhile, a plush, absorbent one elevates the guest experience and enhances your brand.

This guide covers everything hoteliers need to know about towel sizes, fabrics, and budgeting. so, you make purchases that last and impress.

1. Choosing the Right Towel Sizes

Different towel types serve different purposes in a hotel setting. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Towel Type Standard Size (inches) Best Used For
Bath Towel 27 x 52 to 30 x 58 Standard showers and bathtubs
Bath Sheet 35 x 60 to 40 x 70 Luxury suites, spa experience
Hand Towel 16 x 28 to 18 x 30 Bathrooms, guest use
Washcloth 12 x 12 to 13 x 13 Face, hands, small messes
Bath Mat 20 x 30 to 22 x 34 Bathroom floor, safety


2. Understanding Towel Fabrics: What’s Best for Hotels?

Not all towels are created equal. Choosing the right fabric blend ensures your towels feel luxurious and stand up to frequent washing.

Best Towel Fabrics for Hotels:

Aegean Cotton

  • Naturally soft, highly absorbent, and long-lasting

  • OEKO-TEX® certified = safe for skin and eco-friendly

  • Ideal for upscale hotels and spas

Combed Cotton

 

  • Stronger and smoother due to removal of short fiber

  • Great for maintaining quality through repeated use

 

Ring-Spun Cotton

  • Ultra-smooth with added durability

  • Common in high-volume, mid-tier properties

Cotton-Polyester Blend

  •  More affordable and fast-drying

  •  Recommended for motels or high-turnover environments

 3. Budgeting: How to Invest Wisely in Towels

Whether you’re outfitting 5 rooms or 500, towel purchases add up. But cutting corners can cost more in the long run.

Smart Budgeting Tips:

1. Calculate Per-Room Needs

Factor in daily turnover, laundry cycles, and guest habits. A typical double room may need:

  • 2 bath towels
  • 2 hand towels
  • 2 washcloths
  • 1 bath mat

2. Buy in Bulk

Larger orders often come with discounts—and ensure consistency in colour and texture.

3. Prioritize Durability

Towels that last through 100+ washes offer better ROI than cheaper ones that fray in 20.

4. Segmentation Strategy

Use premium towels in suites and spa areas, and budget-friendly options in high-turnover rooms.

 Why Aegean Cotton Towels Are Ideal for Hotels

Feature Aegean Cotton Towels Standard Hotel Towels
Absorbency ✅ Superior ⚠️ Moderate
Softness ✅ Plush feel ⚠️ May feel rough
Drying Speed ✅ Quick-dry ❌ Often slow
Durability ✅ Long-lasting ⚠️ Prone to fraying
Chemical Safety (OEKO-TEX®) ✅ Certified ❌ Not always certified


Hospitality Starts with Comfort -Towels Included

High-quality towels aren’t just a luxury—they’re a reflection of your brand's standards. The right selection can help reduce laundry loads, extend longevity, and most importantly, impress your guests from the very first touch.

Ready to refresh your hotel linen strategy?

Q: How often should hotel towels be replaced?

A: Typically, every 12–18 months, depending on usage and laundering frequency. Premium towels may last longer with proper care.
Q: What towel weight (GSM) is ideal for hotels?

A: A GSM between 500–700 is best. Lower GSM dries faster but feels thinner; higher GSM feels luxurious but takes longer to dry.
Q: Are Harbourloom towels customizable for hospitality branding?

A: Yes, we offer logo embroidery and custom color options for hotel orders. Reach out to our B2B team for more details.
Q: How can I keep towels soft after repeated washing?

A: Use mild detergent, avoid fabric softeners (they reduce absorbency), and tumble dry on low heat.