When it comes to daily essentials, towels are often overlooked, but they play a crucial role in comfort, hygiene, and even home aesthetics. Whether you’re stepping out of the shower, drying your hands, or lounging by the pool, a high-quality towel can make all the difference. For those seeking American craftsmanship, the good news is that there are still several exceptional brands that make towels in the USA. This guide will walk you through what to look for in the best towel, the types of towels available, and the most common materials used- so that you can make an informed purchase while supporting American manufacturing.

The Best Towels Made in the USA: What to Look For and Why It Matters

What to Look for in the Best Towel

When shopping for towels, especially those made in the USA, keep these factors in mind:

  • Absorbency: A towel should quickly and efficiently soak up moisture. Look for dense, looped cotton fibers that hold water well.
  • Softness: High-quality towels feel plush against the skin, even after repeated washes. The softness often comes from the type of cotton and the weave used.
  • Durability: Towels are washed frequently, so they need to stand up to wear. Reinforced edges and quality stitching can prevent fraying.
  • Drying Time: While thick towels are cozy, they shouldn’t take forever to dry. A well-balanced towel offers both comfort and convenience.
  • Size and Weight: Towels are measured by GSM (grams per square meter). A higher GSM means a thicker, heavier towel—typically 600 GSM or above for premium bath towels.

Types of Towels

Not all towels serve the same purpose. Here are the most common types and what they're best used for:

  • Bath Towels: The standard towel size for drying off after a shower or bath. These range from 27″ x 52″ to 30″ x 58″.
  • Bath Sheets: Larger than bath towels, bath sheets (around 35″ x 60″ or larger) offer more surface area and a spa-like feel.
  • Hand Towels: Typically placed near sinks for drying hands, these are smaller but still made with the same quality as larger towels.
  • Washcloths: Used for face and body cleansing, washcloths are compact and durable.
  • Beach Towels: Designed for sun and sand, these are larger, often more colorful, and dry quickly.
  • Kitchen Towels: Not just for drying dishes—they also serve as handy cleanup tools and decorative elements in the kitchen.

Materials Towels Are Made From

The material a towel is made from plays a huge role in how it feels and functions. Towels made in the USA often use high-quality, responsibly sourced cotton:

  • Cotton: The most common towel material. Long-staple cotton varieties like Supima and Pima cotton are prized for their strength, softness, and absorbency.
  • Organic Cotton: Grown without pesticides or synthetic fertilizers, organic cotton is a sustainable choice for eco-conscious buyers.
  • Bamboo-Cotton Blends: Some towels blend bamboo fibers with cotton to enhance softness and antimicrobial properties, though 100% cotton remains the gold standard for American-made towels.
  • Microfiber: While not as common in American-made options, microfiber towels are lightweight, quick-drying, and good for specific uses like sports or travel.
  • Linen: Rare for towels, but sometimes used in kitchen or decorative hand towels for a natural, textured finish.

Why Choose Towels Made in the USA?

Choosing American-made towels supports domestic manufacturing, fair labor practices, and often superior quality control. Many U.S. brands are committed to sustainable practices and traceable sourcing, giving you peace of mind about your purchase. In addition, American textile mills have a long-standing tradition of producing durable and luxurious goods using time-tested methods.

When shopping for your next set of towels, consider more than just color and price. Pay attention to the details—materials, size, and intended use—especially if you're looking for the best towels made in the USA. From ultra-absorbent bath sheets to soft and durable hand towels, there's a perfect American-made towel to suit every lifestyle and preference.

Best Towels Made in USA

Towels That Are NOT Made in USA

  • 1888 Mills closed their US factory in 2024.
  • American Soft Linen towels are made in Turkey.

Have you visited our Made in USA Shopping District? It is the place to start your shopping when you want to find the best of American-made.

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Made in USA Towels: The Ultimate Source List featuring bath towels, hand towels, organic towels and more! #usalovelisted #bathroom #bath #towels #americanmade #madeinUSA

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