Let's discuss how to choose towels and bath towels for your hotel (GSM, yarn count, and size).

Let's first discuss the different types of towels.

What is GSM? Why is it so important?

How to choose GSM by hotel star rating?

Yarn Count: 16S, 32S... What do these numbers mean? How do you choose?

Common Sizes

How to Plan Stocking? (What is Par Level?)

Cleaning Tip: Keeping Towels This Way Makes Them Last Longer

Final Pre-Purchase Checklist:

Let's discuss how to choose towels and bath towels for your hotel (GSM, yarn count, and size).

Purchasing towels and bath towels for a hotel isn't just about buying the most expensive. You need to consider two key factors: guest comfort (soft, absorbent, and pleasant to the touch) and operational costs (drying speed, durability, and ease of washing). This article will help you identify the most practical factors, including GSM (weight), yarn count (like 16S/32S), size, and inventory. We'll also provide a guide based on the hotel's star rating to ensure you have a clear understanding.

Let's first discuss the different types of towels.

Hotel bathrooms typically use the following types of towels: face towels (small for rubbing your face), hand towels (medium-sized for wiping your hands), bath towels (large towels for wrapping yourself after a shower), and bath sheets/bath sheets (large, suitable for both blanketing and covering yourself). Towels used in different locations have different requirements for absorbency and drying speed, so consider each individually when purchasing.

What is GSM? Why is it so important?

GSM (grams per square meter) simply refers to the towel's "thickness." The higher the number, the thicker and more absorbent the towel, and the fluffier it feels. However, the downside is that it dries more slowly and consumes more electricity and water to wash. The industry generally categorizes towels into three grades based on GSM:

300–400: Thin and fast-drying, suitable for pools, gyms, or budget hotels;

400–600: Medium, offering a perfect balance between absorbency and cost, and many hotels prefer this range;

600–900: Thick and luxurious, but more expensive to wash, and generally more commonly used by high-end hotels.

How to choose GSM by hotel star rating?

Five-star hotels: We recommend 600 GSM or higher, aiming for a premium feel. However, many high-end hotels also choose yarns between 500 and 700 GSM, which are both practical and durable.

Four-star hotels: We recommend 500-600 GSM, which looks impressive without slowing down turnover.

Three-star and budget hotels: 350-500 GSM is sufficient, with washability and quick drying being key. Public areas like swimming pools and gyms can use 300-400 GSM.

Yarn Count: 16S, 32S... What do these numbers mean? How do you choose?

Think of yarn count as the "fineness" of the yarn: the higher the number, the finer the yarn; the lower the number, the coarser the yarn. For example, 32S is finer than 16S, resulting in a softer and more delicate towel. However, if the GSM is the same, finer yarns require plying or a special weave for strength.

So, we generally recommend the following:

For strength and durability, choose a high GSM (e.g., 500–650) with a finer yarn (e.g., 30S-40S) or a double weave.

For durability and quick drying (e.g., gym/pool towels), a coarser yarn like 300–450 GSM and 16S/20S is more suitable. It's washable!

Common Sizes

Face Towel: 30×30 cm

Hand Towel: 40×60 cm

Bath Towel: 70×140 cm (Regular Size)

Bath Sheet: 90×160 cm (Extra Large, often found in high-end guest rooms)

How to Plan Stocking? (What is Par Level?)

Hotels generally stock towels according to the "par level," often referring to three sets per room: one for guest use, one in the laundry, and one for backup or emergencies. This way, even if the room is full, you can stay organized.

Cleaning Tip: Keeping Towels This Way Makes Them Last Longer

It's best to wash new towels yourself the first time you wash them. Tumble dry on low heat or hang them out to dry to remove loose fibers and starch.

Try to avoid using fabric softener, as it won't absorb water.

Use bleach sparingly, and if necessary, dilute it.

For normal washing, wash at 40–60°C. For high-temperature disinfection, refer to the fabric's instructions.

Final Pre-Purchase Checklist:

First, determine the hotel level and budget → Select the appropriate GSM range;

While considering the GSM, consider the yarn count (even with the same weight, different yarns can have a significantly different feel);

Determine the size and stock quantity (we recommend stocking with a par of 3);

Be sure to ask the manufacturer for samples! Test them for water absorption, shrinkage, color fading, and seam quality.