Turkish Towels: What is so Special About Them?
October 19, 2023
Turkish towels, also known as peshtemal towels, have become increasingly popular in recent years. But
Are you looking for a lightweight, compact towel that dries quickly and doesn’t take up much room in your bag? Turkish towels (also known as peshtemal towels) and microfiber travel towels are two great options to consider. But how do they compare? Which one is better for travel and outdoor adventures?
At The Turkish Towel Company, we specialize in beautiful, high-quality Turkish towels. We’ll look at the pros and cons of Turkish towels versus microfiber towels to help you decide which is right for your needs.
Turkish towels, also known as peshtemal towels, have been used in Turkey for centuries. They are made from Turkish cotton, which is absorbent yet dries quickly.
These flatwoven towels are lightweight and thin, yet highly absorbent. When woven, the loops of thread are left unfinished, creating a nubby texture on both sides of the towel.
Turkish towels can be used in place of bath towels, beach towels, and picnic blankets. Their lightweight nature makes them perfect for travel, backpacking, camping, and other outdoor adventures.
Microfiber travel towels are a more modern invention made from synthetic microfibers (usually polyester or nylon). The fibers are tightly woven to create a towel that is very absorbent, lightweight, quick-drying and ultra compact.
Microfiber towels feel almost like a soft, plush fabric but have the absorbency of a towel. They are designed to pack down small – some can fold up smaller than the size of a soda can! This makes them ideal for travel when you want to conserve space.
Both Turkish and microfiber towels excel at absorbing water quickly.
The unfinished loops in Turkish cotton make it very absorbent. Turkish towels can absorb up to 20 times their weight in water!
Microfiber towels are also designed to be super absorbent. They are usually around 85% polyester and 15% polyamide. This blend creates a material that absorbs up to 7 times its weight in water.
For all around absorbency, Turkish towels and microfiber towels are nearly equal. You really can’t go wrong with either if you want a highly absorbent travel towel.
A major benefit of both towel types is how quickly they dry out. This is very important for travel and outdoor use.
Turkish cotton is very breathable, so Turkish towels dry out rapidly. Within just a few hours of use, they are usually dry and ready to be packed up again.
Microfiber towels are specifically engineered to dry extremely fast. Some brands claim their microfiber towels can dry in as little as 15 minutes after use.
If drying speed is your top priority, microfiber towels have a slight edge over Turkish towels. But both dry much faster than regular cotton towels.
When it comes to travel towels, you want them to be as lightweight and compact as possible. This makes them easier to carry with you wherever you go.
Turkish towels are very lightweight. A large bath-size Turkish towel can weigh as little as 3-5 oz (85-140 grams). They can easily be folded up or rolled tightly to fit in a small bag or backpack.
Microfiber towels are designed to be ultra lightweight and take up very little space. The lightest ones weigh just 2-3 oz (60-80 grams). When folded up, they are only about the size of a large handkerchief.
For pure compactness, microfiber towels have a small advantage. But Turkish towels can be packed down very small as well. Either towel is easy to tuck into a carry-on or daypack when traveling.
When you use a towel, texture is important too. You want it to feel good against your skin.
The unfinished loops in Turkish towels give them a nubby, textured feel. It’s almost like terry cloth turned inside out. Most people find the texture very pleasant.
Microfiber towels have a soft, almost suede-like handfeel. Many people describe them as extremely smooth and plush.
Texture preference is subjective. If you like a plushy feel, microfiber towels may suit you better. But Turkish towels have a nice nubby texture too.
On longer trips, being able to resist odors is important. You don’t want your towel to get stinky and smelly.
Natural fibers like Turkish cotton tend to resist odors well. Unfinished Turkish towels are very breathable, which prevents odor buildup. They can be used for a week or more without smelling.
Microfiber towels are synthetics, which can sometimes get a bit stinky with prolonged use. However, many microfiber brands apply antimicrobial treatments to help reduce odors. This keeps them fresher for longer.
For odor resistance, Turkish towels have a slight edge. But microfiber towels hold up well too if treated with antimicrobial technology.
You want your travel towel to withstand repeated use and laundering over time. Durability is important.
Turkish towels are very durable. The long cotton fibers are resistant to pilling. With proper care, a Turkish towel can last for many years. The more you wash it, the softer it gets.
Microfiber is inherently a durable synthetic material. But the thin fibers can pill with repeated use and washing. Microfiber towels tend to last 1-2 years with regular use before needing replacement.
For long term durability, Turkish cotton towels are the winner. But microfiber towels offer decent durability too for the price.
As you shop for a travel towel, price is sure to be a consideration. Which type offers better value for money?
Well-made Turkish towels range from $25 to $60 for a full size bath towel. The craftsmanship and materials are high quality.
Microfiber travel towels cost between $10 to $25. You can get a good quality towel for budget friendly prices.
For the price, microfiber towels offer great value. But Turkish towels are very reasonably priced too for a premium natural fiber product.
The choice between Turkish and microfiber really comes down to your priorities and preferences. Both make great lightweight travel towels. Take your needs and budget into account as you decide which option is right for you.
Whichever you choose, we hope this comparison helps you pick the perfect travel towel for your next adventure! Let us know if you have any other questions.
Turkish towels, also known as peshtemal towels, have become increasingly popular in recent years. But
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