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A bath towel is something that you use every day, so while it might not be something you ever think twice about, it's worth keeping comfort and durability in mind.
At the end of the day, "a towel is a deeply personal decision," says Emily Forrest, the director of communications and resident towel expert at the wedding registry site Zola.
Things to consider according to Forrest are size, material (Egyptian, Pima, and Supima cotton are all very fluffy), and also grams per square meter (GSM), which will define how weighty, luxurious, and to some extent how durable the towel is. Our testing and selection concerned a variety of textures, weights, and budgets.
Read more about our methodology here, and learn more about how Insider Reviews tests and researches home products.
Best towel overall: Kassatex Atelier Bath Towel, $17 at Neiman MarcusKassatex's Atelier Towels are the densest and most absorbent of all the towels we tried. They remain soft after several washes, and the hanging loops are a thoughtful touch.
Best quick-dry towel: Hydrocotton Organic Bath Towel, from $1.99 at Pottery BarnThe Hydrocotton Organic Bath Towel from Pottery Barn has a soft, extra fluffy, and substantial feel and it dries surprisingly quickly despite its weight.
Best Turkish towel: Mediterranean Organic Towel, from $12 at CoyuchiThe Coyuchi Mediterranean Organic Towel is a lightweight, tightly woven towel made from organic Turkish cotton that not only looks great but also ticks all the boxes for comfort, absorption, and thoughtful production standards.
Best waffle towel: Onsen Bath Towel, $50 at AmazonThe Onsen Bath Towel is a lightweight and resilient waffle-weave option that absorbs water well but doesn't drag or hang heavy like other waffle towels.