Why are Turkish towels so expensive and are they worth it?

Why are Turkish towels so expensive and are they worth it?

Yes, yes and yes!!  In our humble opinion, real Turkish towels are artisanal pieces that represent a sound investment in a simpler, less wasteful and more authentic life. No fast fashion here!  

What is so special about Turkish towels?

Turkish cotton is considered superior to other cottons as far as towelling goes. The extra long fibres make 100% Turkish cotton towels typically softer, more absorbent and more durable than standard towels. The thin weave of Turkish towels also means they don't hold sand or become smelly or heavy when damp. 

Sunsalt towels are woven on semi automatic machines by the Turkish family we collaborate with. Turkish towels cost a little more because they are not mass produced items. Some of the towels are still loomed on old shuttle-looms; true, traditional artisanship.  What we appreciate most about this style of manufacturing is the love and tradition that gets woven and knotted into these towels that have could be in our lives for decades. 

As a result of this looming style, the towels may hold slight irregularities, making each one unique. 

How to tell if my Turkish towel is authentic : 

It is important to source Turkish towels that are loomed in Türkiye, made with 100% Turkish cotton.  Check the tags; cheaper towels are often sourced in China or India and are not made using Turkish cotton.

Why aren't my Turkish towels absorbent? 

Before using your towel, we recommend that you soak it in cold water in a bucket/sink/bathtub for at least 12 hours. Soaking your thirsty towel prior to first use allows the extra long fibres to fully expand and become extremely absorbent.  Soaking will also rinse out any dust gathered on the long journey between Türkiye and Byron Bay!!

After your towel has soaked, wring it out and dry in the shade. The sun can cause towels to fade.  Air dying allows towels to remain soft and supple. The more these towels are used, the softer and more absorbent they become. 

 

How often should I wash my Turkish towels?

We recommend you simply rinse them if needed and wash no more than every 3 to 4 uses.  When towels need a proper wash, use cold water and minimal detergent. We don't recommend using bleach or fabric softener.  If the towel dries looking a bit wrinkly and it bothers you....simply give it an iron on a cool-medium setting and it will come up as new!! It is just cotton.

Dealing with Loose threads.

Loose threads on your towel due to catching on sharp objects such as jewellery can be restored.  Firstly, try to pull the fabric taut and easing the offending thread back into the weave. If a stubborn loop or loose thread remains after this, simply cut off the affected thread!  Due to the weaving techniques used, the towel will not unravel if a thread is cut.

We hope that  our Sunsalt towels will enhance your lives for years to come! Thank you.

The Sunsalt Byron Bay team x

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

'

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Back to blog

Leave a comment