You’ve probably seen them in boutique hotels, beach bags, or on Instagram — beautifully striped, lightweight towels with fringe. But what exactly are Turkish towels? And what makes them different from the thick, fluffy terry towels you’re used to?
A Turkish towel, also known as a peshtemal, is a flat-woven towel made from 100% Turkish cotton. Unlike standard towels, they’re thin, quick-drying, and incredibly versatile — used for everything from baths to beach days, travel to home decor.
In this post, we’ll explore what Turkish towels are, how they work, and why they’ve been trusted for centuries — from ancient hammams to today’s sun-soaked adventures.
What Is a Turkish Towel?
A Turkish towel, or peshtemal, is a traditional flat-woven towel that dates back to the Ottoman Empire. It was originally used in hammams (Turkish bathhouses), where towels needed to be both absorbent and quick-drying for daily bathing rituals.
Unlike the looped terry towels most people are familiar with, Turkish towels are loom-woven using long-staple Turkish cotton, which gives them durability, softness, and a unique texture.
They typically feature:
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Flat weave (no loops)
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Light weight and thin profile
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Decorative fringes or tassels
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Striped or minimalist patterns
What Makes Turkish Towels Unique?
Turkish towels stand out for their combination of beauty, function, and heritage.
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Made with long-fiber Turkish cotton – becomes softer and more absorbent with each wash
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Flat-woven – dries faster, folds smaller, and is more hygienic
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Highly absorbent – despite their thinness, they soak up water well
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Quick drying – ideal for humid or frequent-use environments
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Lightweight and compact – perfect for travel, gym bags, and small spaces
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Sand-resistant – their smooth flat weave helps repel sand, making them ideal for beach use
Where and How Are They Used?
Part of what makes Turkish towels so appealing today is how versatile they are. You’ll find them used in:
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Home: bath towels, guest towels, hair wraps, spa settings
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Outdoors: beach blankets, poolside wraps, picnic throws
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Travel: ultralight packing, sarongs, shawls, baby blankets
Their good looks and practicality also make them great gifts, decorative throws, or even table covers.
Common Questions About Turkish Towels
Are Turkish towels absorbent if they’re so thin?
Yes! Long-staple Turkish cotton absorbs water beautifully and gets better with every wash.
Will it replace my bath towel?
Many people make the switch and never go back. Turkish towels dry faster, resist mildew, and feel lighter.
Is it only for the beach?
Not at all. While popular as beach towels, they’re designed for everyday use in bathrooms, gyms, and travel.
Turkish Towels vs Other Towels
| Feature | Turkish Towels | Terry Towels | Microfiber Towels |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fabric | 100% Turkish Cotton | Cotton (looped) | Synthetic (plastic fibers) |
| Weave | Flat | Looped | Smooth/fuzzy |
| Dry Time | Fast | Slow | Fast |
| Absorbency | High | High | Moderate |
| Breathability | Excellent | Moderate | Poor |
| Eco-Friendliness | Compostable | Compostable | Not biodegradable |
How to Choose a Real Turkish Towel
Before you buy, here’s what to look for:
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100% Turkish cotton (no blends)
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Flat-woven style — not terry
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Made in Turkey (not just Turkish-inspired)
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OEKO-TEX® certified (for safety and sustainability)
Looking for a more in-depth guide? Read: What Makes a Turkish Towel Truly Authentic
Why Turkish Towels Belong in Your Everyday Life
Turkish towels are more than just fabric — they’re a reflection of centuries-old craftsmanship, smart design, and simple, joyful living.
Whether you’re drying off after a steamy bath or lounging seaside, they bring beauty, comfort, and history into everyday life.
It’s not just a towel. It’s a tradition.