:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/MelanieRudHeadshot-82702c3bc69c47eb801a1408684c08f5.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/newprofimage2copy2-33a53356c22b4caf88223661222500f6.png)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/best-hair-towels-4770150-a07a532b16be434996814a5ce441217d.jpg)
Byrdie / Lecia Landis
After a shower, you probably toss your soggy towel around your head; an afterthought to kick-start the hair-drying process. But wait: did you know that wet, terry cloth towels can be the culprit of your breakage, static, limp curls, and flat waves?
“When hair is wet, it’s in its most fragile state and the most prone to breakage,” explains hairstylist Becca Panos. Because strands are less elastic when they’re wet, they’re more likely to snap. Giving your hair a little extra TLC with a hair towel during this often-overlooked step in your hair care routine can go a long way. Designed to be extra absorbent and gentle enough to prevent damage, these nifty towels help reduce static and speed up dry times.
We researched some of the most popular and high-quality hair towels, evaluating each on material, absorbency, value, and consumer reviews. Finally, we combined these insights with stylist recommendations to compile a list of our favorite hair towels to leave your strands silky smooth.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/volo-hero-hair-towel--d5bb06ae042c418ca80db27d44a940b3.jpg)
Highly absorbent
Softer and thicker than most
Stays in place
Sheds a little before first wash
Material: Microfiber, polyester blend | Absorbency: Super | Hair Type: All hair types | Machine Washable: Yes
Yes, this is a dedicated hair towel, but we’d really like it if the brand made it in a full-size body version—it’s one of the loveliest, plushest towels we’ve ever used. Unlike many other hair towels that can be thin and flimsy, this one is extra thick and made of an extremely absorbent microfiber—one that absorbs 10 times its weight in water. The size is ideal for long hair lengths, and the built-in loop easily creates a turban that stays in place.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/act-acre-intelligent-hair-towel-5ce3c65f003f4bd2aed473c636b875b0.jpg)
Very effective
Waffle weave is pretty
Gentle on hair
Could be bigger
Material: Microfiber, polyester blend | Absorbency: Super | Hair Type: All hair types | Machine Washable: Yes
“Light and super absorbent, this is a great option that helps reduce hair breakage,” says Panos. Act+Acre claims the towel's waffle weave texture cuts dry time in half and helps to protect hair when it’s in its most vulnerable state. We just wish it was slightly bigger since some people point out it can be a bit small for those with thicker and/or longer hair.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/crown-affair-the-hair-towel--9f692be799eb472382d38fc67ce4f9fc.jpg)
Elegant waffle weave microfiber
Has loop to hold it in place
Great for reducing breakage and static
A bit on the short side
Elastic headband will stretch out if hung incorrectly
Material: Microfiber, polyester and nylon blend | Absorbency: Super | Hair Type: All hair types | Machine Washable: Yes (do not hang to dry by elastic band)
Yes, Crown Affair's The Hair Towel is a bit of a splurge, but this elegant option has garnered loyalty from users who say it’s a game-changer for preventing damage and keeping hair smooth and soft. It dries hair quickly while being extra-gentle on damaged strands, thanks to both its pretty waffle weave construction and microfiber material. Our one wish is that it was a touch longer, as this towel may prove a bit short for those with mermaid-length manes.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/turbie-twist-towels-6725f0f121ac43929b06a0ae62524180.jpg)
Least expensive on our list per towel
Has a tried-and-true history
Comes in a four-pack
Material can feel a bit thin
Material: Microfiber, polyester, polyamide blend | Absorbency: Super | Hair Type: All hair types | Machine Washable: Yes
“Life-changing,” “simple to use,” and “effective” are just a few of the words happy online reviewers use to describe this extra wallet-friendly pick. If you’re thinking this towel sounds familiar, you’re right—it was a major infomercial player back in the day. It’s clearly stood the test of time and Amazon shoppers give it five-star ratings over and over again. Plus, you get a four-in-one pack, so you’ll always have a hair towel on hand.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/youlertex-microfiber-hair-towel-wrap-5d636e8bae2047f89a314321f41c8855.jpg)
Comes in a two-pack
Great size
Helps dry hair faster
Material can feel a bit thin
Material: Microfiber, polyester | Absorbency: Super | Hair Type: All hair types | Machine Washable: Yes
Because it’s innately quick-drying, microfiber is easily the most common hair towel material. This one is an especially great choice—it’s an Amazon standout, with over 43,000 (yes, you read that correctly) glowing five-star ratings. The size is great for all lengths of hair, and the price can’t be beaten. Even more so considering this comes in a pack of two towels, with more than 15 colors to choose from.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/duracomfort-essentials-anti-frizz-microfiber-hair-towel-dda372f705be4a4188c0c8d5dfa300ce.jpg)
Good for all hair types
Cotton microfiber material
Gentle on hair
Could be longer
Material: Microfiber, cotton | Absorbency: Super | Hair Type: All hair types | Machine Washable: Yes
A great option for all hair types—even super coarse and thick, which is the most prone to frizz—this towel both sops up tons of water and doesn’t rough up the cuticle (which, spoiler alert, can lead to static). Reviewers repeatedly point out that it speeds up dry time in a big way and is super effective at smoothing and taming frustrating static.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/hopeshine-microfiber-hair-drying-towel-turban-3-pack-fd8b78334de84b969de2001c86222391.jpg)
Very absorbent
Comes in a three-pack
Helps dry hair faster
Could be longer
Material: Microfiber, polyester, polyamide blend | Absorbency: Super | Hair Type: All hair types | Machine Washable: Yes
To be fair, all hair towels will help dry your hair faster than a standard towel, but this one definitely excels. It’s made of soft, super-absorbent microfiber and comes in a unique kite shape with a button fastener that makes wrapping it around your hair and head easy and comfortable. Our go-to move is to wrap it into a turban and go about our makeup or skincare routine; by the time we’re done, our hair is noticeably drier. Plus, it comes in a pack of three so you don’t need to worry about constantly washing or reusing one towel.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/devacurl-devatowel-anti-frizz-microfiber-towel-c93d6b6a90104b9c9239a21f982db325.jpg)
Soft and fluffy
Great, large size
Smooths staticky hair
Only comes in a pack of one
Material: Microfiber | Absorbency: Moderate | Hair Type: Curly and wavy | Machine Washable: Yes
Curly hair types are more prone to friction, making a dedicated hair towel even more important. Panos says this is her favorite for the curly-haired crowd. Along with helping to smooth, it also reduces the likelihood of static cling and cuts down on dry time, too, of course. Designed by DevaCurl, a brand dedicated to all things curly hair, you can trust that this hair towel will keep your curls intact and looking their best.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/luxe-beauty-essentials-microfiber-hair-towel-wrap-plush-microfiber-towel-for-hair--absorbent-microfiber-hair-towels-for-women-with-curly-long-thick-hair-60cbe482405846b09cac5efb0e2e80b8.jpg)
The largest towel on this list
Ultra-absorbent
Keeps long hair in place
Reviewers say it could be more absorbent
Material: Microfiber | Absorbency: Super | Hair Type: All hair types | Machine Washable: Yes
As anyone with long hair will tell you, having your wet ends sticking out of a turban can leave you with annoyingly soggy tips. Enter this oversized option, one of the biggest we’ve seen—20 inches by 40 inches, to be exact—making it a breeze to wrap up every last inch of your hair (and still have room to spare). And, of course, you still get all of those static-fighting and speed-drying benefits.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Aquis-Hair-Drying-Towel-716c946e22814c6aa466c9f73a65a44a.jpg)
Very absorbent and effective
Non-bulky
Washes and lasts well
Could be longer
Material: Microfiber, polyester, nylon blend | Absorbency: Super | Hair Type: All hair types | Machine Washable: Yes
If you have short hair, you’ve probably experienced a big towel falling frustratingly off your head. This compact towel is here to save your neck from the weight and save your hair from the slippage. “This is a great towel because it really does reduce drying time,” says Panos of one of her favorites. It’s made of a proprietary material, a super-soft microfiber blend that’s also extremely lightweight and not bulky in the least. To that point, the towel itself also dries super quickly.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tee-owel-t-shirt-towel-13d08a9d8e654e5db28333f2621524ab.jpg)
Soft and slightly stretchy
Comes in various colors
Helps tame static
No button/loop to hold in place
Material: Cotton | Absorbency: Super | Hair Type: All hair types | Machine Washable: Yes
No hair towel handy? True story, you can use a plain old cotton T-shirt and reap many of the same benefits, says Panos. Or you can try this pick, which works for all hair types but is especially great for static prevention in curly hair. It’s made of cotton but is just ever-so-slightly stretchy enough to give you the best wrap and hold. It comes in a variety of colors and two different sizes for different hair lengths. But, be aware that it doesn’t have a loop or button to hold it in place, so it may be more prone to slip off for those with very short or very long hair.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/volo-scrunchie-89330ca4943c4ad3a2b7253e373f0221.jpg)
Multipurpose
Doesn't tug
Keeps hair in place
Doesn't dry hair like a towel
Material: Microfiber, polyester blend | Absorbency: Super | Hair Type: All hair types | Machine Washable: Yes
Don’t feel like rocking a towel turban? In our humble opinion, these towel-inspired scrunchies are a brilliant invention. They’re thicker than a standard scrunchie and made from a similar microfiber material to the brand’s towel (the one we loved so much we named it our overall winner).
Of course, the small surface area of this scrunchie means it will only be able to absorb moisture from the parts of your hair it touches. But reviewers have been pleasantly surprised by how much water it absorbs, and it will certainly hold your hair safely out of your face—without causing breakage—while you do your makeup. You get a pack of two, and, top tip, they’re not only great for post-hair-washing but also to use during sweaty workouts or a day at the beach. They’re also extremely gentle on hair, never pulling or tugging.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/kitsch-microfiber-hair-towel-wrap-d49fd36080cc490d888ab817510426f3.jpg)
Made from super absorbent microfiber
Elastic trim for easy hair tuck
Comes in fun prints and colors
Only comes in one size
Material: Microfiber | Absorbency: Super | Hair Type: All hair types | Machine Washable: Yes
Although you’d think wrapping your hair in a towel should be foolproof, there’s a knack for getting it right (scroll down for tips from our expert). This turban-style wrap from Kitsch makes the whole process seamless thanks to its curved shape, which gently cradles wet strands, elasticated edge, which keeps hair from falling loose, and loop-to-button fastening at the nape of the neck to keep the whole thing secure. Made from 100% microfiber, it efficiently wicks moisture without robbing your hair of its natural oils, drying strands while leaving them hydrated and healthy looking.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/aquis-flip-pearl-02755d3a6abc465da646c4c79d03f163.jpg)
Includes antimicrobial copper
Fastens securely without tugging
Helps define waves and curls
Reduces static
Some reviewers say it didn’t decrease drying time by much
Material: 70% recycled polyester, 25% nylon, 5% copper | Absorbency: Super | Hair Type: All hair types | Machine Washable: Yes
Dry, damaged hair can use all the help it can get—and that includes a drying routine that preserves hydration and hair health as much as possible. Enter the Aquis Flip Pearl, a unique towel made from recycled polyester and nylon to absorb water without friction, plus antimicrobial copper to keep the fabric bacteria-free. In clinical trials, participants who regularly bleached their hair found that using the Aquis Flip Pearl left their strands five times stronger than heat drying. The clever design stays secure around the hairline without tugging and can be left open for faster air drying.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/coco--eve-microfibre-hair-towel-wrap-bde97f89d3334d91a548536aba495bdb.jpg)
Made from moisture-wicking fabric
Helps reduce static
Can be used overnight with a hair mask
Works on long, thick hair
Doesn’t come with instructions on how to fasten it
Material: 75% Polyester, 25% Polyamide | Absorbency: Super | Hair Type: All hair types | Machine Washable: No. Hand wash only.
When your hair needs some TLC, reach for Coco & Eve’s Hair Towel Wrap. The beloved haircare brand suggests slathering on a nourishing hair mask, securing the towel, and letting the product do its thing overnight before washing your hair again in the morning. Your strands will be softer and your bedsheets will remain clean. Of course, you can use this turban any time to aid in the drying process while reducing static, and we’re more than a little obsessed with the tropical leaf print. Some reviewers complained that the towel doesn’t come with instructions, but as long as you keep the button at the nape of your neck, twist the towel around your hair, and fasten it with the loop, you can’t go wrong.
What to Look for in a Hair Towel
- Material: When it comes to hair towels, hairstylist Michelle O’Connor says the first feature to look at is the material to ensure it won’t damage your hair. And whatever you do, avoid traditional terry cloth. “Whether you have curly or straight hair, terry cloth tends to rough up the hair shaft, which causes static and may even contribute to split ends,” she says. A good rule of thumb? If it feels nice and soft on your face, it’ll be nice and soft on your hair, too.
- Buttons or Fasteners: Another feature O’Connor recommends looking for is a towel that can button or fasten to stay on your head. “These will allow you to twist and wrap functionally and easily,” she says. Nobody wants to have to constantly rewrap their towel, especially if you’re drying your hair while getting dressed or doing your makeup, so products that are designed to stay put will make the process much less of a hassle.
- Size: O’Connor also recommends looking for a product that’s the right size for your hair length and thickness. “Larger towels are always going to have a greater function for thicker and longer lengths, as you want to have your hair fully encapsulated and covered while soaking up excess water,” she says. Those with shorter hair won’t need all of that extra fabric and can opt for smaller designs.
Why Trust Byrdie
Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, writing for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. While working on this article she consulted two experts:
- Becca Panos is a stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago. She’s known for outstanding long haircuts, as well as being a bridal hair expert.
- Michelle O’Connor is an award-winning professional hairstylist and the Artistic Director at Matrix as well as a hair educator.
This article was updated by Byrdie contributors Natalie Rahhal, who has nearly a decade of experience covering health and wellness, and Esme Benjamin, a freelance writer, editor, and podcaster based in New York.
According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find enough hair towels from Black-owned and/or Black-founded businesses to meet this percentage. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com and we will evaluate the product ASAP.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/BYRDIE-11-best-microfiber-hair-towels-4799961-primary-55cfca750bd948dba979b5d7a87b4eed.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/toweldry-3bf04e64be7145548c06045cffba77b2.png)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/hair-styling-tools-tout-3d69ec6020e74e7abfd252c76402d189.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/deep-conditioners-tout-9bdd4b85984642a9a9629757a9b94539.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/professional-hair-dryers-tout-7c7ea66342d342c9b09e470c6093cfe9.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/slickflyaways-fb6d1d333e504e439e8917ca1f3a3ad0.png)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/drugstore-conditioners-tout-326dd3bf60a94c65863e2979b373b10c.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/byr-primary-heat-protectant-spray-lalmeida-0349-9ccf93981880429a89b1540f3dccfe54.jpeg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/howtodryhair_recirc-78665cadd86844258b47d4c48507d73a.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/byr-heatless-curlers-test-silke-london-riddley-schirm-7-b277ccc431c144e58c8ead1da2c823a6.jpeg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/HERO-268af178f61e4f1aaf03d1b9a39efa71.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/hair-masks-tout-e76ecad63fec41cea3ce7deacafd8e98.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/best-shampoos-for-colored-hair-4582708-74bb2513bce0453aab8171ae99ad5bfe.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/byr-product-hot-tools-black-gold-digital-salon-jthompson-0094-1-aabfcd47611043c8af834619d525718c.jpeg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/blowdryer-tout-75cf891f8ca24f339d28aa96e7fba719.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Best-Leave-in-Conditioners-for-Curly-Hair-of-2023-tout-693c99de53a6475aa97c6ee1ea6184c2.jpg)