Turkish towels - traditional peshtemals - offer a distinctly different experience from Western terry towels. This ancient towel style is experiencing a global revival.
What Is a Turkish Towel?
The traditional peshtemal is:
- Flat-woven (no looped pile)
- Thin and lightweight (200-350 GSM)
- 100% cotton (typically Turkish cotton)
- Large (90x170cm or bigger)
- Quick-drying
- Multipurpose
History
Peshtemals originated in Turkish hammam (bath) culture centuries ago. The flat weave suited steam room conditions - quick drying and easy wrapping.
The word "peshtemal" comes from Persian, meaning "covering."
How They Differ from Terry
| Turkish (Peshtemal) | Terry |
|---|---|
| Flat weave | Looped pile |
| Thin | Thick |
| 200-350 GSM | 400-700+ GSM |
| Quick dry | Slow dry |
| Lightweight | Heavy |
| Multipurpose | Single purpose |
Advantages
Quick Drying
Flat weave dries in hours, not overnight. Critical for:
- Travel
- Humid climates
- Beach use
- Frequent washing
Lightweight
Fraction of terry weight - ideal for:
- Travel
- Beach bags
- Limited storage
- Backpacking
Compact
Packs much smaller than equivalent terry towel.
Versatile
Beyond drying, works as:
- Sarong/wrap
- Beach blanket
- Picnic blanket
- Scarf
- Tablecloth
- Throw
Sand Resistance
Flat weave doesn't trap sand like terry loops.
Gets Softer
Unlike terry, peshtemals soften significantly with washing.
Disadvantages
Different Feel
Not the plush experience of terry. Some find this insufficient; others prefer it.
Less Absorbent (Per Pass)
Won't soak up as much water in one pass as thick terry. May need more drying motion.
Takes Getting Used To
If you've only used terry, peshtemals may feel inadequate initially.
How to Use
For drying: More rubbing motion than wrapping. The thin fabric absorbs well, just differently.
For beach: Lay flat, use as towel and mat combined.
For travel: Roll or fold compactly. Dries overnight on hotel rail.
Buying Tips
Look for:
- Turkish cotton (long staple)
- Tight, even weave
- No loose threads
- 100% cotton (avoid synthetic blends)
- Hand-tied fringe (quality sign)
Avoid:
- Poly blends (different feel)
- Very cheap versions (quality varies)
- Machine-made fringe
Authentication
True handmade peshtemals are becoming rare. Most are now machine-woven but still high quality. "Handwoven" commands premium and should be verified.
Care
- Machine wash cold or warm
- Tumble dry low or line dry
- Soften dramatically after several washes
- No fabric softener needed
Where to Buy
- Specialty Turkish importers
- Beach/travel shops
- Online retailers
- Directly from Turkey