Terry cloth is a woven fabric with loops projecting from one or both surfaces. In a towel, these loops form the pile you can see and feel.
Why loops help absorption
Loops increase the exposed surface area of cotton. Water is drawn along and between fibres through capillary action, while the open pile gives water more contact points than a flat weave.
Why cotton is commonly used
Cotton is comfortable against skin and naturally suited to absorbing moisture. Fibre quality, yarn preparation, twist, pile construction and finishing all affect the final towel; “100% cotton” alone does not describe performance.
What GSM tells you—and what it does not
GSM means grams per square metre. It describes fabric mass over area, not the exact weight of every towel and not a complete quality score. A higher GSM towel generally feels fuller and holds more water, but can take longer to wash and dry.
| Range | Typical feel | Useful for |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Less bulky, quicker drying | Travel, gym, frequent washing |
| Medium | Balanced absorbency and drying | Everyday bath and family use |
| Heavy | Plush, substantial | Spa-like feel where drying time is manageable |
Is terry cotton skin friendly?
A well-finished cotton terry towel can be soft and comfortable for everyday skin contact. Wash before first use, keep the towel clean and dry, and avoid aggressive rubbing—especially on sensitive skin.
How to assess a towel
Look beyond a single claim. Check fibre, dimensions, GSM or weight, loop coverage, hem and side stitching, colour fastness, care guidance and whether the construction suits the use case.
Frequently asked questions
Is terry cotton the same as 100% cotton?
Terry describes the looped fabric construction; cotton describes the fibre. A towel can be cotton terry, blended terry or made from another fibre.
Does higher GSM always mean a better towel?
No. Higher GSM usually means a heavier, fuller towel, but the best choice depends on drying time, climate, washing routine, yarn and construction.
Why are hotel towels different from beach towels?
Hospitality towels are designed around repeated commercial laundering and standardised specifications, while beach towels may prioritise dimensions, colour and outdoor use.
Looking for product-specific information? Check the material, size, care and delivery sections on the relevant product page, or send a specification-led bulk enquiry.