Terry Cloth
Cotton fabric woven with loops on one or both sides, creating a soft, highly absorbent pile. The standard fabric for towels, bathrobes, and poolside coverups. Some terry is knit rather than woven.
Score Breakdown
How long the fabric lasts with regular use
Softness, feel against skin, wearability
Air flow and ventilation
Heat retention and insulation
Ability to pull sweat away from skin
Environmental impact of production and disposal
How easy it is to wash, dry, and maintain
Best For
Excellent comfort (75) and easy care (80) for daily wear
Good durability (60) and comfort (75) for office wear
Good comfort (75) and breathability (65) for sleeping
Detailed Use Case Scores
Pros
- ✓ Extremely absorbent — the gold standard for drying
- ✓ Soft and comfortable against skin
- ✓ Easy to wash and maintain — gets softer with each wash
- ✓ Affordable and widely available
Cons
- ✗ Heavy when wet — retains a lot of water weight
- ✗ Can harbor bacteria if not dried properly
- ✗ Loops can snag and pull — not the most durable weave
- ✗ Bulky — takes up storage space and takes long to dry
Care Guide
Special Notes
• Do not use fabric softener — reduces absorbency
• Use vinegar every few washes to restore absorbency
Additional Care Tips
- • Machine wash warm (40°C/105°F) — hot water for white towels
- • Tumble dry on medium heat — heat keeps loops fluffy
- • Do not use fabric softener — coats loops and reduces absorbency
- • Use white vinegar every 4-5 washes to remove buildup and restore absorbency
- • Wash towels separately from clothes with hooks/zippers to prevent snagging
Cost
$$$$$
Budget-friendly
Shrinkage
May shrink 2-5% — wash cold
Eco Rating
Moderate impact — consider eco alternatives