Towel

A towel is a piece of fabric made from fibres that absorb water quickly and is designed to dry the body, hands, hair, dishes, and other items. It is a common household item used in the bathroom, kitchen, beach, and sports facilities.

The most important property of a towel is its capacity to absorb water. This is achieved by a raised and uneven surface: the fibres are looped to form small loops, which increases the surface area in contact with water.

Materials used

Most towels are made from cotton, because cotton fibres retain large amounts of water. Mixed fabrics combining cotton and synthetic fibres such as polyester are also used, as well as newer materials like microfibre, which is lightweight and dries quickly. Some towels are made from linen (flax fibre), particularly those used in the kitchen.

Types

Common types include the large bath towel used to dry the body, the small hand towel, the very small face towel, and the washcloth or kitchen cloth for dishes. There are also beach towels with colours and patterns, and sports towels used in exercise facilities.

Use and care

A towel can harbor bacteria and fungi for a long time, which makes their growth possible if the towel is not cleaned properly. For this reason, towels should be air-dried so moisture can escape, and washed regularly. In healthcare and hospitality settings, there are protocols for washing towels in hot water to reduce germs.

Culture and history

The use of absorbent fabric for drying is an old practice linked to bathing customs. The modern towel with loops became common in the textile industry in the late nineteenth century, when weaving machines made mass production possible. In many cultures, towels are part of household practices and hospitality customs.