Shopping for new bath towels and confused about which type is best for you? Fret not, our guide will explain the differences between two popular styles—traditional fluffy cotton towels (often called terry cloth) and the increasingly popular waffle-weave towels. Both offer you soft coziness and help dry you off after a steamy shower, but like all things, each has their own set of strengths. We’ll help you narrow down the options and find the best towel for your lifestyle.

Waffle-Weave or Terry Cloth Towels: What’s the Difference?

Terry cloth towels are probably the type you grew up with, they’re made of small, tightly woven loops that give them a soft, fluffy feel. Waffle-weave towels (also called honeycomb or lattice-weave) have a textured grid of recessed squares, like the breakfast food they’re named after. Both types of towels are usually made of cotton or other absorbent materials like microfiber or bamboo.

Pros of Waffle-Weave Towels

While waffle-weave towels have been popular for years in Japan and Europe, they’ve only recently become popular in the U.S. (likely due to their Instagrammable looks) and are now on shelves, and bathrooms, everywhere.

Aside from their good looks, waffle-weave towels have a few tricks up their sleeves that make them better for some lifestyles and situations: they're lightweight, quick to dry (thanks to that wonderful weave) and take up less shelf space. Good news! Allswell Waffle Towels are stonewashed so they’re extra soft and are made of 100% cotton. Don’t forget your matching bathrobe!

Cons of Waffle-Weave Towels

While waffle-weave towels are everything they’re cracked up to be, they won’t give you the same plush coziness you may be used to with more traditional towels. They’re also less absorbent than terry cloth.

Pros of Terry Cloth Towels

There’s a reason your mom’s linen closet is stacked with terry cloth towels. They’re the standard not only because they’re affordable and versatile, they’re also super soft and wonderfully absorbent. If luxurious comfort (that doesn’t break the bank) is best for you, check out Allswell’s 100% organic terry cloth towels.

Cons of Terry Cloth Towels

Everything has a price. With better absorbency comes a heavier, bulkier towel that can take longer to dry.

Wrapping It All Up...

Waffle-weave towels are lighter, they fold up smaller, and dry quicker, but they aren't as cozy as terry cloth. Terry cloth towels provide a softer, plusher feel, offer great absorbency, and can be found pretty much anywhere, but can take longer to dry.

Waffle-Weave Towels Are Best for You If...

• You don’t have a lot of storage space
• You take a lot of showers (and need your towel to dry fast!)
• Your bathroom lacks great ventilation
• You like the textured, modern look

Terry Cloth Towels Are Best for You If...

• You want that luxurious spa day feeling
• You want a super absorbent towel
• Storage and ventilation aren’t a problem
• You want a classic look

Both options are great, but the best towel for you will depend on your style preferences, usage, and specific needs. Whichever you choose, prepare to wrap yourself in affordable luxury with Allswell towels!

SHOP ALL ALLSWELL TOWELS

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this blog article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for the advice of a medical professional.