Towel colour is largely personal preference, but different colours have practical implications.
White Towels
Advantages
- Can be bleached for maximum hygiene
- Always matches bathroom décor
- Shows when truly clean
- Classic, hotel-like appearance
- Easiest to wash (hottest temperatures)
Disadvantages
- Shows every stain
- Makeup, fake tan, hair dye visible
- Can look dingy if not maintained
- Requires more careful washing
Best for: Those who prioritise hygiene, want hotel aesthetic, don't use staining products.
Dark Towels
Advantages
- Hide some stains
- Dramatic appearance
- Don't show dirt as quickly
Disadvantages
- Show lint and dust
- Fade over time
- Can't use bleach
- Makeup/products still show (differently)
Best for: Modern bathrooms, those who dislike the stark white look.
Mid-Tone Colours
Advantages
- Balance between showing and hiding
- More forgiving than white or black
- Many décor options
Disadvantages
- Dye fading visible over time
- Limited by bathroom colour scheme
Best for: Most households, coordinating with décor.
Practical Considerations
Makeup and Products
Benzoyl peroxide, fake tan, and hair dye can bleach coloured towels. If you use these products, consider:
- White towels (already white)
- Designated "face towels" in a sacrificial colour
- Dark towels (spots less visible)
Household
- Multiple people: consider colour-coding
- Children: patterns hide stains
- Rentals/Airbnb: white (professional, bleachable)
Fade Factor
All coloured towels fade eventually. Darker colours show this more noticeably.
Our Recommendation
For most people: white or light neutral tones. They're practical, classic, and easy to maintain.
Have a separate set in a darker colour for face/makeup use if needed.