About Egyption Bathroom Towels

Process

• Egyptian cotton grows in Egypt's warm climate of the Nile River Valley. The fibers of Egyptian cotton are silkier, softer and longer than other cotton, ranging from 1 1/2 to 2 1/4 inches long. Farmers handle the cotton by hand -- without machines -- during harvest, resulting in the soft, velvety feel of Egyptian cotton. It is also grown without applications of pesticides or chemicals. The longer fibers produce extended, more continuous yarns or threads, culminating in a stronger fabric.

Thread Count

• Thread count is an important component of a towel because a higher thread count indicates a stronger fabric that is more absorbent and longer lasting. The number of threads per square inch or grams per square meter (GSM) determine a fabric's thread count. According to the Egyptian Linens Outlet, poor- quality towels have a GSM ranging from 200 to 300 while superior-quality towels have a GSM ranging from 400 to 600. Egyptian cotton towels fall into the superior-quality GSM range.

Benefits

• A high thread count makes Egyptian towels stronger, breathable, absorbent and longer lasting than other towels, possibly lasting over a decade with proper care. Egyptian cotton towels become softer, cuddlier and lose less lint after repeated washings. Conventional cotton towels commonly lose their quality and begin pilling and shedding cotton with every wash. Prices for Egyptian towels have come down, making them more affordable.

Variety

• Available in an assortment of colors, styles and sizes, Egyptian towels will complement any bath decor. The naturally thirsty quality found in Egyptian cotton towels makes them easily abosorbent to dyes, providing an abundance of available color choices. Commonly, an Egyptian cotton bath towel is about 30 x 54 inches, supplying a generous, snuggly wrap when stepping out of the shower. Bath, hand and face towels can often be purchased as a matching set, providing continuity and reduced costs.