Hotel Towels vs. Regular Towels

It's widely known that the towels offered in hotels are often much softer and cozier than regular towels, creating an elevated, luxurious guest experience. While it may seem like a mystery as to how hotel towels often feel much better than regular towels, it all comes down to a few simple factors in the construction of the towel.

If providing your guests with a premium experience is at the top of your list as a hotel manager, you must pay attention to the towels you offer them. By doing your research about the towels you buy, you can select quality, long-lasting towels that leave your guests impressed. In the end, you may be surprised at how fundamental providing the right towels is to creating a positive guest experience.

Below, we discuss the hotel towel difference and what you should consider when purchasing new towels for your hotel.

The Difference Between Hotel and Regular Towels

When it comes to comparing hotel towels vs. regular towels, it all comes down to the material. Most regular towels you might purchase for your home have a lower fiber count, which means they don't absorb water as well as towels with a higher fiber count. However, towels made for hotels have that higher fiber count, so they're softer and can absorb water more quickly.

Ultimately, every towel is unique, woven using specific materials and techniques to fulfill its intended purpose. When choosing a towel, it's essential to understand its specifications. This way, you can provide the exact correct type of towel for every need, whether that includes large and plush bath towels or small washcloths with good absorption.

In hotels, high-quality towels with higher fiber counts are the go-to option to provide guests with a luxurious experience. While regular towels may work best for your hotel's kitchen or in places like the fitness center, hotel towels in guest rooms should be different. Considering various types of towels can help you make the best decision for your business.

3 Factors to Consider Before Buying Towels

As stated, the qualities of a towel all come down to how it's made. Therefore, you'll need to consider the finer points of towel construction while you explore your options. When researching towels for your hotel, you can use the following factors to help you make the best choice.

1. Weight 

The weight of a towel is determined by grams per square meter (GSM). This metric measures a towel's density and weight, which also correlates with its fiber count — the higher the GSM of a towel, the more woven loops it has and the thicker and more absorbent it is.

In hotels, the most popular GSM counts are around 400-600, though some hotels provide towels with GSMs of up to 900. As stated, the application of your towels matters here. While plush, highly absorbent towels are best for stocking your hotel bathrooms, you should choose lightweight towels at the lower end of the GSM scale for your hotel gym.

2. Weave

Each fabric has a unique texture and functionality, and how it's woven and put together impacts the final finish of the towel. Here are some weave types you might notice in towels:

• Combed cotton: Before the weaving process, combing the cotton helps to remove any debris and short threads. This combing technique helps the towel keep its shape and remain durable.
• Ringspun cotton: This technique combines short and long threads for a delicate and luxurious feel. 
• Waffle weaves: While not as plush as cotton towels, waffle weave towels are absorbent and fast drying because the honeycomb pattern creates a larger surface.
• Zero-twist fibers: Made of cotton woven without twisting, zero-twist fibers result in a light, soft and absorbent towel.

3. Size

The size may differ between manufacturers, so be sure to check you're ordering the size you want. Typically, washcloths are about 12 by 12 inches, hand towels are about 16 by 27 inches, bath towels are about 24 by 50 inches and bath sheets lie in the range of 35 by 60 inches to 40 by 70 inches.

Hotel Towel Options to Consider

Choosing the best quality hotel towels is essential for a great user experience and the longevity of your towels. When choosing towels for your hotel, you want to provide the best experience for your guests. It's best to go for a 100% cotton towel with a higher GSM, so your guests have access to plush, highly absorbent towels.

To keep your towels in the best condition, skip the fabric softener when washing them. While it may make your towels soft for a little while, over time, the chemicals from the fabric softener build up on the towels and reduce their absorbency. The proper washing techniques will help your investment in high-quality towels last as long as possible.

Regular Towel Options to Consider

If you're looking for other towel options for your hotel, you have many options. These towels likely don't have to be as high in fiber count as the towels you offer in guest rooms, so you have more freedom here.

At Now Linens, we offer several regular towel options you may want to consider, such as our collection of salon towels, our array of kitchen and dish towels and our complete gym towel assortment. These towels have the right specifications for the other parts of your hotel that require towels beyond your guest rooms.

Shop Hotel Towels From Now Linens Today

When it comes to choosing towels for your hotel, we offer nothing less than the highest quality. When it's time to purchase new towels for your hotel's rooms, kitchen, gym or other spaces, Now Linens has an extensive array of wholesale towels that can make your decision simple. By using our towels in your hotel, you can rest assured that you're providing your guests and staff with high-quality, reliable towels that do the job every time.

Shop our options today to find dozens of options that work for your business and can leave a lasting impression on your guests. Questions? Fill out our contact form to get in touch with us.