What are Turkish Towels?

Turkish towels, also known as peshtemals or hammam towels, are traditional towels made from cotton or linen. They’re lightweight, highly absorbent, and quick-drying, making them ideal for travel, the beach, or the gym. Their flat-woven texture often features beautiful patterns and colors, and they can also double as a blanket or sarong. Because they’re so versatile and stylish, they’ve become popular worldwide beyond their original uses in Turkish baths.

What Are They and How Are They Different?

Turkish towels, or peshtemals, are traditional woven towels originating from Turkey, primarily used in hammams (Turkish baths). Here’s how they differ from regular towels:

1. Material

Turkish Towels: Typically made from high-quality cotton or linen. This natural fiber makes them softer and more absorbent.
Regular Towels: Often made from thicker terry cloth, which can feel bulkier.

2. Design and Weave

Turkish Towels: Flat-woven, which means they have a smooth texture without the loops found in terry towels. They often feature intricate patterns and can be quite stylish.
Regular Towels: Usually looped, which gives them a plush feel but can make them heavier.

3. Size and Weight

Turkish Towels: Generally larger, lighter, and more compact. They’re easy to fold and carry, making them ideal for travel.
Regular Towels: Heavier and bulkier, which can take up more space in your bag.

4. Absorbency and Drying Time

Turkish Towels: Highly absorbent despite their lighter weight, and they dry quickly, reducing the chance of mildew.
Regular Towels: While they’re also absorbent, they can take longer to dry due to their thickness.

5. Versatility

Turkish Towels: Versatile enough to be used as a beach towel, picnic blanket, sarong, or even a throw.
Regular Towels: Primarily designed for drying off after a shower or swim.

6. Aesthetic Appeal

Turkish Towels: Often come in a variety of colors and patterns, making them more decorative.
Regular Towels: Usually more utilitarian in design.

Overall, Turkish towels offer a combination of style and practicality, making them a popular choice for those who appreciate both form and function.

How are Turkish towels produced?

Turkish towels are produced through a traditional weaving process that emphasizes quality and craftsmanship. Here’s an overview of how they are made:

1. Material Selection

Cotton or Linen: High-quality, long-staple cotton or linen is chosen for its durability, softness, and absorbency. Organic cotton is also popular.

2. Spinning

The selected fibers are spun into yarn. The spinning process can affect the texture and strength of the final product, with a focus on creating fine, strong threads.

3. Dyeing

Natural Dyes: Many producers use natural dyes to color the yarns, ensuring vibrant and long-lasting hues. Some manufacturers opt for synthetic dyes for a wider color palette.

4. Weaving

Traditional Looms: The yarn is woven on handlooms or modern looms. The flat-weave technique distinguishes Turkish towels from terry towels, resulting in a smooth texture.
Patterns: Various patterns, like stripes or checks, can be incorporated into the design, showcasing skilled craftsmanship.

5. Finishing

Once woven, the towels are washed to soften the fabric and enhance absorbency. This step may also involve a process to remove any impurities.

6. Trimming and Quality Control

The towels are trimmed to the desired size and undergo quality checks to ensure consistency and quality in weaving, color, and texture.

7. Final Touches

Edges are often finished with fringes or hems, adding to the towel’s aesthetic appeal.

8. Packaging

The finished towels are folded, packaged, and prepared for distribution, often highlighting their artisanal quality.

This traditional production process not only ensures a high-quality product but also supports local artisans and preserves cultural heritage.

Where can you find the best Turkish towels?

You can find high-quality Turkish towels in a variety of places. Here are some options:

1. Specialty Stores

Look for stores that focus on home goods, textiles, or wellness products. Many of these stores carry authentic Turkish towels.

2. Online Retailers

Websites like Etsy and Amazon offer a wide range of options, including handmade and artisanal towels.
Dedicated sites like Turkish Towel Company, Bamboo Cotton, and Peshtemal often have a great selection.

3. Local Markets

If you’re in Turkey or in areas with a large Turkish community, local bazaars and markets often sell traditional peshtemals.

4. Home Goods Stores

Larger retailers like Target, West Elm, or Bed Bath & Beyond may carry Turkish towels among their home textiles.

5. Wellness Spas

Some spas or wellness centers sell Turkish towels as part of their products, especially those focusing on hammam or spa experiences.

6. Boutique Shops

High-end boutiques often stock premium Turkish towels, offering unique designs and colors.

When shopping, look for information on the material, weaving technique, and reviews to ensure you’re getting a quality product.