Image: Mytour / Jaclyn MastropasquaWhether you're settling into a new, minimalist home or simply refreshing your linen collection, towels are both essential and indulgent. As a resident of a beach town, I frequently find myself going through my towel stash, constantly tossing them into the wash. Saltwater, sweat, sand, and other elements keep them in constant circulation. Over time, even the plushest towels break down and become ragged.
Fortunately, dermatologists recently revealed an intriguing secret to help us better manage our towel inventory: Waffle weave towels last longer between washes. Due to their unique texture, these towels dry much faster than others, making them more durable for frequent use. The waffle weave design also extends their lifespan, especially in humid climates like mine.
From Brooklinen to Target, and from luxurious to simple, the market is filled with a wide range of waffle towel options. We’ve compiled fifteen of our top picks to keep you comfortable throughout the summer—and all year round.
Best Waffle Weave Towels Under $150
- Cozy Earth Waffle Bath Sheets, $98 (was $140)
- Brooklinen Waffle Bath Towels, $72 (was $89)
- Boll & Branch Single Waffle Terry Towel, $49
- Onsen Waffle Bath Sheet Set, $105 (was $114)
- The Citizenry Imabari Waffle Face Towel, $47 (was $58)
- Figment Kitchen Towel, $3
- Polyte Oversized 6-Piece Bath Towel Set, $37 (was $39)
- Bed Threads Petrol French Flax Linen Bath Towel, $68 (was $80)
Cozy Earth Waffle Bath Sheets
Cozy EarthMade from bamboo-sourced viscose, this set of two oversized waffle weave bath towels from the eco-conscious brand Cozy Earth features a unique reversible design. One side showcases a mini textured waffle weave, while the other side offers a cozy ribbed terry. Personally, I love the generous, swaddle-worthy size, as it combines the plush comfort of spa towels with the quick-drying efficiency of the waffle weave.
Brooklinen Waffle Bath Towels
BrooklinenThese Brooklinen bath towels, available in six beautiful color options, from soft violet to timeless black, are crafted from 100% long-staple Turkish cotton. Their unique honeycomb weave effectively traps water, helping the towels dry faster. Each towel in the two-piece set is pre-washed for instant softness, and the material will only become even softer over time.
Boll & Branch Single Waffle Terry Bath Towel
Boll and BranchBedding and bath brand Boll & Branch is renowned for luxury linens that not only feel great on your skin but are also reasonably priced. If you're hesitant to fully dive into the waffle experience, this midweight towel features dual sides: one side with micro-sized waffling, and the other with absorbent terry cloth. The material is Made in Green Oeko-Tex Certified, ensuring the towels are free from harmful chemicals. P.S. If you're feeling indulgent, consider adding the brand’s vintage-inspired linen sheets to your collection.
Onsen Waffle Bath Sheet Set
OnsenOnsen’s Memorial Day sale offers up to 40% off sitewide, making it the perfect time to upgrade your towels. According to the brand, this waffle bath sheet set lasts 45% longer than regular cotton towels, and it only gets softer and more absorbent with time. Personally, we're drawn to the ten stunning color options, especially the rich ochre hue. The bundle is a great deal, with each set including a bath towel, hand towel, and face towel—all 25% off this weekend only.
The Citizenry Imabari Waffle Face Towel
CitizenryDon't forget to add smaller hand and facial towels to complete your waffle collection. Ethical marketplace The Citizenry offers more than just home décor, including beautifully crafted waffle towels made from ultra-soft Pima cotton, loomed in the oldest family-run mill in Japan. These towels are lightweight, gentle, and feature a stylish flat-run border. To keep them looking their best (they’ll naturally soften with use), the brand suggests washing them in cold water and hanging them on a rack, rather than a hook, to preserve their shape.
Figment Kitchen Towel
TargetWhenever I’ve relocated (which has been often), I’ve always stocked up on affordable yet stylish towels from Target, starting at just $3. These waffle weave towels, made from 100% terry cotton, are especially handy in the kitchen for quickly absorbing spills, drying dishes, and more—without any lingering dampness. One shopper even said, 'These towels are the best I’ve purchased so far. They’re thick, absorbent, and look stunning in my kitchen. Plus, the price can’t be beat.'
Polyte Oversized 6-Piece Bath Towel Set
AmazonUpgrade your linen closet with this best-selling set of waffle weave towels from Amazon, featuring over 1,400 five-star reviews. Shoppers rave about its lint-free quality, with one reviewer saying they'd buy multiple sets. This six-piece set includes two bath towels, two hand towels, and two face towels, all made from 400gsm for a thick and durable texture.
Bed Threads Petrol French Flax Linen Bath Towel
Bed ThreadsWaffle texture doesn't have to mean cotton only. Linen is a great option year-round, offering temperature regulation—it keeps you warm in cool weather and light during warmer days. These towels, measuring 35.4 by 66.9 inches, are described as heavyweight and 'lightly exfoliating' by the brand. They come in seven colors, from soft Oatmeal to vibrant shades like Petrol and Turmeric. Expect some shedding initially, but it should stop after a few washes.
