Personal preference, not objective quality. Both have advantages.
White Towels
Advantages
- Signals cleanliness (see that they're clean)
- Can be bleached
- Classic, spa-like aesthetic
- Never goes out of style
- Easy to match
Disadvantages
- Shows every stain
- Can yellow over time
- Shows makeup, hair dye
- Requires more careful washing
- May look institutional
Coloured Towels
Advantages
- Hides stains and wear
- Decorative options
- Less visible makeup/product transfer
- Personal expression
- May feel less clinical
Disadvantages
- Can't bleach safely
- Colours may fade
- Matching replacements harder
- Some dyes less stable
Practical Considerations
Face towels: Consider white (or separate) to avoid makeup stain visibility on body towels.
Guest bathrooms: White reads as "clean and fresh" to guests.
Family bathrooms: Coloured may be more practical with children.
Rental properties: White is industry standard (bleachable, replaceable).
Care Differences
| Aspect | White | Coloured |
|---|---|---|
| Bleaching | Yes | No |
| Wash temp | Hot (60°C) | Cooler (40°C) |
| Fading risk | Yellowing | Colour loss |
| Stain visibility | High | Lower |
Mixing
Many households mix:
- White for guests and master bath
- Coloured for children/everyday
- Different colours per person (easy identification)
The Verdict
No right answer. White for classic cleanliness signal, coloured for practicality and aesthetics. Choose what you prefer.