The towel is one of the first things a guest touches — and often one of the most defining elements of a hotel or property’s sense of luxury. A soft, thick towel exudes care and quality; a rough or worn one gives the opposite impression.
But, for every hospitality professional, there is a dilemma: how can we maintain the sense of luxury without sacrificing durability and practicality?
In today's article, Crist Linen , top Greek linen manufacturer , explains how to find the “golden balance” in hotels towels and invest smartly in quality that lasts.
Why towels play such an important role in hospitality
Towels aren’t just a disposable item; they’re part of the experience your space offers. From the first wipe after a shower, to the spa or pool, the texture, absorbency, and appearance of a towel reflect the level of your property.
A good towel should:
- Absorbs water immediately without leaving moisture on the skin
- Feels soft and dense to the touch
- Maintains its shape and color after dozens of washes
- Withstands high temperatures and frequent use
- Contributes to the aesthetic coherence of the brand (e.g. white, colored or with embroidered logo)
The Dilemma: Luxury vs. Durability
✨ Luxury
Luxury towels stand out for their fiber density ( GSM ) , natural cotton composition and deep, “fluffy” texture . They give the visitor a spa experience , ideal for boutiques hotels and luxury resorts .
However, they have some challenges:
- They take longer to dry.
- They are more sensitive to incorrect washing
- They have a higher initial cost
💪 Endurance
The most durable towels are usually medium GSM (400–500) or made from poly - cotton blends , which retain their shape and withstand washing. They are ideal for high-traffic areas (e.g. large hotels, Airbnbs , gyms).
They offer:
- Quick drying and easy maintenance
- Long-term durability
- Best cost per use
The role of GSM : What do the numbers on towels mean?
The GSM ( grams per second) per square meter ) measures the density of the fabric.
The higher the GSM , the heavier, more absorbent and “luxurious” the towel is.
|
GSM range |
Towel Type |
Use |
|
300–400 GSM |
Light, thin |
Gyms, spas, daily use |
|
450–550 GSM |
Balance of luxury & durability |
Hotels, Airbnb, swimming pools |
|
600–800 GSM |
Dense, fluffy, luxurious |
Luxury resorts, suites, spas |
💡 Tip Christ Linen : For most hotels, the ideal is around 500 GSM — rich enough for a luxurious feel, but also durable for professional use.
Material and weave: the “ DNA ” of the towel 🧵 100% Cotton Offers natural softness, high absorbency and a sense of luxury. Ideal for bath and spa towels collections .
🌿 Poly - Cotton blends offer excellent durability and faster drying — suitable for large units or frequent use areas .
🌀 Ring - Spun & Combed Cotton These production techniques create finer and stronger fibers, giving the towel a softer texture and longer life.
Practical tips for maximum lifespan Wash at 40–60° C with neutral detergents – avoid bleach.
Don't overload the washing machine; towels need space to be properly cleaned.
Tumble dry at medium temperature to maintain softness.
Don't use fabric softeners frequently — they reduce absorbency.
Choose linens with double stitching for better edge durability.
How many towels does each room need? To ensure a flawless housekeeping flow :
2 large bath towels per person
1 face towel per person
1 bath mat per room
1 spa or pool towel , if provided
➡️ Ideally, calculate 3 sets per room (in use, in washing, in reserve), as Crist suggests Linen in hotels linen management her guides.
The importance of aesthetics A towel is not just a functional object; it is an element of identity. White towels highlight cleanliness, while custom colors or embroidered logos enhance your branding.
Crist Linen offers personalized options with embroidery, colored borders and eco - friendly certifications, so that every detail exudes consistency and care.
Christ Linen — the guarantee of quality and durability Crist Linen manufactures and supplies hotel towels , luxury bed sheets , restaurant tablecloths and yachts linens , with an emphasis on quality, durability and sustainability.
From sustainable From linens to custom - made collections, our solutions serve hotels, resorts and hospitality venues that want to offer a lasting luxury experience.
✨ Trust Crist Linen to find the golden balance between elegance and durability — and give your guests the feeling of care they deserve.