How to Choose the Best Bath Towels in Australia: Bamboo vs Cotton, GSM and What Really Matters

There is nothing quite like stepping out of a shower and wrapping yourself in a beautifully soft, luxurious bath towel. But with so many options available, how do you know which bath towels are actually worth buying?

From plush hotel-style towels to lightweight quick-drying options, choosing the right towel involves more than just picking a colour you love.

The material, absorbency, weight, size and quality of construction all make a difference.

If you're looking for the best bath towels in Australia, here's what you need to know before investing in your next set of towels.

Bamboo vs cotton towels: which is better?

One of the most common questions when shopping for luxury bath towels is whether bamboo or cotton is the better choice.

Both materials have their advantages, but bamboo and cotton blend towels offer an interesting combination of qualities.

One of the standout features of Baksana bamboo towels is their exceptional absorbency. Baksana states that its bamboo towels are four times more absorbent than 100% cotton towels, combining the softness of bamboo-derived fibres with the familiar qualities of cotton.

Cotton towels

Cotton has been a popular choice for bathroom towels for generations. It is durable, absorbent and available in a wide range of weights and finishes.

However, not all cotton towels feel the same. The quality of the cotton, the construction of the towel and its GSM all influence how soft, absorbent and durable it will be.

Bamboo towels

Bamboo-derived fibres are valued for their silky softness and smooth feel against the skin.

They are often blended with cotton to combine the softness associated with bamboo with the familiar structure and durability of cotton.

Bamboo and cotton blend towels

For shoppers wanting a balance of softness, absorbency and a luxurious feel, a bamboo and cotton blend is worth considering.

Our eco-friendly Baksana bamboo bath towels are finely woven from 60% OEKO-TEX® Certified cotton and 40% OEKO-TEX® Certified bamboo, combining the two fibres in a substantial, premium-weight towel.

The result is a wonderfully soft towel that feels luxurious against your skin.

What makes Baksana bamboo towels different?

Not all bamboo towels are created equal. The quality of the fibres, manufacturing process and finishing techniques all contribute to the final product.

There are several things that make the Baksana bamboo towel collection stand out.

Exceptional absorbency
One of the most impressive features of the Baksana range is its absorbency. Baksana states that its bamboo towels are four times more absorbent than 100% cotton towels.

Natural antibacterial properties
Bamboo's natural anti-bacterial properties and softness mean Baksana bamboo towels are a treat for sensitive skin. This is another appealing feature for shoppers looking for thoughtfully designed bathroom textiles.

Hydro-filtered for a beautifully soft finish
Baksana towels undergo a hydro-filtering process and are finished without dressing. This finishing process is designed to remove dust and impurities from the finished fabric, contributing to their smooth, luxurious feel.

Woven construction
Baksana towels are woven rather than knitted. This offers a practical advantage: if you happen to snag a loop, it can simply be cut off without the towel unravelling.

What does GSM mean when buying bath towels?

If you've been shopping for luxury towels, you've probably noticed the term GSM.

GSM stands for grams per square metre. It measures the weight and density of the towel fabric.

Generally, the higher the GSM, the heavier and plusher the towel will feel.

Here's a useful guide:

• 300–400 GSM: Lightweight towels that are generally quicker to dry.
• 400–500 GSM: Everyday towels offering a balance of weight and practicality.
• 500–600 GSM: A thicker, more luxurious feel with good everyday versatility.
• 600–700 GSM: Plush, substantial towels with a premium, hotel-style feel.
• 700+ GSM: Very thick and indulgent towels, which may take longer to dry.

Our Baksana bamboo towels have a substantial 700 GSM construction, delivering a plush, premium feel. Even the matching bath mats are generously weighted at 1,300 GSM, adding another layer of luxury to your bathroom.

There isn't one perfect GSM for everyone. Your choice depends on whether you prefer a lightweight towel that dries quickly or a thick, luxurious towel that feels like a treat every time you step out of the shower.

Our tip: If you love the feeling of wrapping yourself in a thick, plush towel, look for something around 600–700 GSM.

Our Baksana bamboo bath towels have a substantial 700 GSM weight, making them a beautiful option for anyone who loves a premium towel.

What size bath towel should you buy?

Towel size is another important consideration, particularly if you love having plenty of fabric to wrap around yourself.

There are three main sizes to consider.

Bath towels
A traditional bath towel is designed for everyday use. It provides good coverage, is easy to hang and generally fits comfortably on a standard towel rail.

Our Baksana bamboo bath towels measure 70cm x 147cm.

Bath sheets
If you prefer a little extra luxury, a bath sheet is a wonderful upgrade.

Bath sheets are larger than standard bath towels, offering more coverage and plenty of fabric to wrap yourself in.

Our Baksana bamboo bath sheets measure an impressive 98cm x 183cm.

They're particularly lovely if you enjoy wrapping yourself up after a long shower or relaxing bath.

Hand towels, face cloths and bath mats
Don't forget the smaller details when refreshing your bathroom.

Matching hand towels, face cloths and bath mats help create a coordinated look and make everyday bathroom essentials feel a little more luxurious.

What makes a really absorbent bath towel?

A good bath towel should absorb moisture effectively rather than simply move water around your skin.

Absorbency is influenced by several factors, including:

• The type and quality of fibres used.
• The construction and density of the towel.
• The length and structure of its loops.
• The towel's weight and thickness.
• How the towel is washed and cared for.

It's worth remembering that the thickest towel isn't automatically the most absorbent.

A well-made towel needs the right combination of fibre quality and construction.

Our Baksana bamboo and cotton blend towels are designed to combine the absorbency and softness of bamboo with the structure of cotton. Baksana bamboo towels are four times more absorbent than 100% cotton towels. And with a substantial 700 GSM construction (1,300 GSM for bath mats), they are a lovely option for anyone looking for a more luxurious everyday towel.

Are expensive luxury towels worth it?

It's tempting to choose the cheapest towels available, particularly when you're buying for the whole family.

But a towel is something you'll use every day, often multiple times.

When comparing towels, consider:

• How soft does the towel feel?
• Does it have a substantial, quality construction?
• Is it absorbent?
• Does it maintain its feel after regular washing?
• Is the material composition clearly stated?
• Is it made to a quality that justifies the price?

A quality towel can make a surprisingly big difference to your everyday bathroom experience.

If you love the feeling of a luxury hotel bathroom, investing in a premium towel is one of the simplest ways to recreate that experience at home.

How to care for bamboo and cotton towels

Even the best quality towels need the right care to maintain their softness and absorbency.

Here are a few simple tips based on Baksana's care recommendations:

• Wash before first use: Aways wash new towels before using them.
• Wash at 40°C: Use a delicate machine wash cycle.
• Avoid fabric softeners: These can leave a coating on towel fibres, reducing their ability to absorb moisture.
• Use an appropriate detergent: Avoid detergents containing optical brightening agents, particularly for coloured towels.
• Dry gently: Line drying is recommended. If using a tumble dryer, choose low to medium heat.
• Don't worry about a snagged loop: Because Baksana towels are woven rather than knitted, a pulled loop can simply be cut off with sharp scissors without causing the towel to unravel.

With the right care, quality towels can remain a beautiful part of your bathroom for years.

Our pick: Baksana luxury bamboo bath towels

If you're looking to upgrade your bathroom with a beautiful premium towel, we'd love you to discover our Baksana bamboo towel collection.

As an Australian stockist of Baksana, we offer a carefully selected range of premium bamboo and cotton blend towels.

Here's what makes Baksana towels special:

• 60% OEKO-TEX® Certified cotton/40% OEKO-TEX® Certified bamboo: A luxurious combination of two natural fibres.
• 700 GSM construction: Thick, plush and beautifully substantial.
• Four times more absorbent: Compared with 100% cotton towels.
• Natural antibacterial qualities: Bamboo's natural antibacterial properties and softness are a treat for sensitive skin.
• Hydro-filtered finish: Finished without dressing and hydro-filtered to help remove dust.
• Woven construction: A snagged loop can be cut off without the towel unravelling.
• Generous sizing: From everyday bath towels to oversized bath sheets.
• Matching accessories: Complete the look with coordinating hand towels, face cloths and bath mats.

Whether you're refreshing your own bathroom or looking for a thoughtful housewarming or wedding gift, these towels bring a little everyday luxury into the home.

Shop our collection:

• Discover our Baksana Bamboo Bath Towels
• Explore our Luxury Bamboo Bath Sheets
• Shop Bamboo Hand Towels
• Browse our range of Bamboo Face Cloths
• Find matching Bamboo Bath Mats

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Bath Towels

What are the best bath towels to buy in Australia?

The best bath towels depend on your preferences for softness, absorbency, thickness and drying time. For a luxurious, plush feel, look for quality towels around 600–700 GSM. Bamboo and cotton blends are worth considering if you enjoy a soft feel combined with a substantial towel construction.

Are bamboo towels better than cotton towels?

Bamboo and cotton each have different characteristics. Bamboo-derived fibres are known for their silky softness, while cotton is valued for its durability and absorbency. A bamboo and cotton blend combines the two materials and can be an excellent choice for a luxurious everyday towel.

Are bamboo towels more absorbent than cotton towels?

Baksana states that its 60% cotton and 40% bamboo towels are four times more absorbent than 100% cotton towels. The blend combines bamboo-derived fibres with cotton to create a soft, substantial towel.

Are bamboo towels naturally antibacterial?

Bamboo has natural antibacterial properties, which Baksana highlights as a feature of its bamboo towel range. Coupled with the extraordinary softness of bamboo fibres, this makes bamboo towels a great choice for sensitive skin.

What GSM is best for luxury bath towels?

For a plush, hotel-style towel, 600–700 GSM is a good range to consider. Higher GSM towels are generally heavier and thicker, although they can take longer to dry.

What is the difference between a bath towel and a bath sheet?

A bath sheet is larger than a standard bath towel. It offers more coverage and is ideal for people who enjoy wrapping themselves in a larger, more generous towel after bathing.

How do you keep bamboo towels soft and absorbent?

We recommend washing Baksana towels at 40°C on a delicate cycle. Avoid fabric softeners, use an appropriate detergent and line dry where possible. If tumble drying, use low to medium heat.

Ready to give your bathroom a little luxury?

Explore the Bamboo Instyle collection of beautifully soft Baksana bamboo towels and discover the difference a quality towel can make to your everyday routine.

Shop Bamboo Instyle

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate luxury towel in Australia, chances are you’ve come across the name Baksana. Known for their premium, hotel-quality weight and incredible softness, they have earned a massive following.

But at a premium price point, are they actually worth the investment?

As an official Australian stockist of Baksana, we’ve put these towels to the test over years of daily use and washing. Here is our honest review of the Baksana Bamboo/Cotton Blend Towels, what makes them unique, and whether they deserve a spot in your bathroom.

The Specs: What Makes Baksana Towels Different?

Most standard department store towels sit around 400 to 500 GSM (Grams per Square Metre). They feel thin, wear out quickly, and lose their fluffiness after a few spins in the washing machine.

Baksana does things differently. Here is how they stack up:

• Weight: A hefty, ultra-plush 700 GSM for the bath towels (1000 GSM for the bath mats).
• Blend: 60% Cotton and 40% Bamboo.
• Craftsmanship: Made ethically in Turkey.
• Safety: OEKO-TEX® Certified, meaning they are guaranteed free from harmful chemicals and completely safe for sensitive skin.

The Big Advantage: Why the Blend Beats 100% Bamboo

A common complaint about 100% bamboo towels is that they can warp, snag easily, sag on the clothesline, and take days to dry in the winter.

Baksana solved this by cleverly engineering a premium blend of 40% bamboo and 60% cotton bath towel.

This gives you the absolute best of both worlds. You get the incredible, silky softness of bamboo against your skin and 4x the absorbency of 100% cotton towels.

Pros: What We Absolutely Love

1. Incredible Absorbency
Because of the bamboo loops, these towels don't just push water around your skin. They drink it up instantly. They are hydro-filtered during manufacturing, meaning they are highly absorbent from the very first use.

2. Hotel-Luxury Weight
At 700 GSM, wrapping yourself in a Baksana towel feels like stepping out of a spa at a 5-star resort. They are thick, heavy, and incredibly cozy.

3. Great for Sensitive Skin and Eczema
Thanks to the natural hypoallergenic and antimicrobial properties of bamboo (combined with the OEKO-TEX certification) these towels are incredibly gentle on easily irritated skin.

4. Snag-Resistant Woven Loops
Unlike cheap towels that completely unravel if they catch on a ring or a sharp nail, Baksana towels feature a secure woven loop. If you ever get a snag, you can simply snip the loose thread off with scissors, and the towel won't unravel.

Cons: What to Keep in Mind

To keep this review balanced, there are two things you should note before you buy.

Drying Time: Because these towels are so thick and heavy (700 GSM), they will take slightly longer to dry than a thin, cheaper towel. On a rainy winter day, they appreciate a quick spin in the dryer or a breezy spot on the line.

Care Instructions: Do not use regular supermarket fabric softeners or detergents with optical brighteners on these. Softeners coat the bamboo fibres in a chemical film, which actually ruins their natural absorbency.

The Verdict: Are They Worth It?

If you are looking for cheap, thin towels to throw in a gym bag, these are not it.

But if you want to invest in your home, value sustainable manufacturing, and want a durable, incredibly plush towel that stays soft wash after wash, Baksana Bamboo Towels are absolutely worth the investment. They elevate your daily shower into a luxury ritual and outlast standard towels by years.

Ready to upgrade your bathroom?

Explore our curated range of Baksana Bamboo Towels in a variety of gorgeous, earthy tones.

Shop the Baksana Bamboo Towel Range here >>>

Frequently Asked Questions About Baksana Towels

Are Baksana towels 100% bamboo?

No. Baksana towels are a premium blend of 60% cotton and 40% bamboo. This prevents the towel from stretching out of shape while maintaining maximum softness and absorbency.

Where are Baksana towels made?

Baksana towels are designed in New Zealand and ethically manufactured in Turkey, which is world-renowned for its high-quality, durable textile craftsmanship.

Are Baksana towels good for eczema and sensitive skin?

Yes. Because they are OEKO-TEX® certified, they are guaranteed to be free from harmful chemicals and toxic dyes. The natural hypoallergenic and antimicrobial properties of the bamboo fibres make them incredibly gentle on irritated skin or eczema.

Why are my Baksana towels not absorbing water?

If your towels are losing absorbency, it is likely due to the use of fabric softeners or detergents with optical brighteners. These products coat the natural bamboo fibres in a chemical film. To restore absorbency, try washing them in warm water with a cup of white vinegar and no detergent.

Start the new year by making a few easy sustainable changes to help you look after the environment (and your wallet) better.

1. Carry reusable bags

Single use and plastic bags may be convenient, but we all know how costly they are to the environment. If you haven't already, now is the time to ditch lame, single use plastic and start carrying reusable bags in your handbag or car so you've always got one with you when you need it. They are relatively cheap, and come in a multitude of fashionable prints, colours and styles.

2. Use reusable water bottles and coffee cups

Plastic water bottles and single use coffee cups are still used everywhere. It's scary how many are thrown away each day! Bring your own coffee cup to the café and instead of buying water, fill your own reusable water bottle. Not only is it kinder to the planet - it also saves you money in the longer term.

3. Hang your washing to dry

This is the year to embrace the clothes line! Tumble dryers are expensive to run and use a lot of energy, so it's no surprise they aren't great for the environment. Air drying clothes is more environmentally friendly, saves money, and reduces wrinkles and creases (and ironing). And as it's less harsh on your garments, it also increases the lifespan of your clothes.

4. Reduce your home's standby power use

Many plugged-in appliances still continue to draw electricity even though they are turned off. And if you have a lot of these inefficient appliances in your home, you could be paying hundreds of dollars or more per year for unnecessary power and contributing more than 1,000 kilograms of greenhouse gases to the environment (source:  Choice). So to reduce the impact of these voltage vampires, make sure you switch off devices and appliances at the power point when they're not in use.

5. Use natural or eco-friendly cleaning products

Buying eco-friendly cleaning products, or trying natural alternatives, is another change you can make to go easier on the environment. Lemon, vinegar and baking soda are well known natural cleaning agents with endless applications to get your home sparkling. Or there are plenty of options in the supermarket to go greener and eliminate toxic chemicals to make your home safer.

6. Upcycle or donate

Doing a little new year spring cleaning? Instead of throwing away your unwanted items, try giving them a new lease on life! Can that unwanted item be repurposed into a fun craft project for the kids? Or is there a way to get creative and prolong the life of unwanted clothing? Cutting off jeans into shorts, or shortening a dress are ways to give your old garments a new lease on life. If it really is time to say goodbye, you can donate your pre-loved items in good condition. Donating keeps them out of the landfill and can benefit the local community.

7. Buy eco-friendly

If you're keen to cut down your fast fashion consumption and make your wardrobe a little more eco-friendly, there are so many amazing brands offering sustainable clothing and homewares these days. Here at Bamboo Instyle, we offer a range of earth friendly bamboo women's clothing, bamboo men's clothing and bamboo bath towels.

By making these few easy and eco-friendly choices over the course of the year, you could make a real impact to the environment - and save money along the way.

Bamboo and cotton are both popular materials when it comes to making fabric for clothing and homewares. But, what is the better choice? Stick with us for some facts...

Bamboo needs less water

Cotton is well known as a thirsty crop. Bamboo uses one third the amount of water as cotton to grow, and can thrive in poor soil conditions. One acre of bamboo can produce up to ten times more harvestable material than cotton, making it a sustainable choice for the environment.

No pesticides

Bamboo also creates its own natural defense against pests, so there's no need for chemical pesticides. Pest-friendly!

Bamboo produces more oxygen

Bamboo is the fastest growing plant on Earth, with a growth rate of up to 1 metre per day. Bamboo grows 12 times faster than trees, producing 30% more oxygen than trees. Breathe in...

Bamboo fabric smells better

Bamboo is also naturally antibacterial, which means you can wash your linens without worrying about the buildup of odour-causing bacteria that can happen with other fabrics. So your clothing stays smelling fresh as a daisy!

Bamboo is super soft

Bamboo clothing is ridiculously soft, it compares to the luxurious feel of silk or cashmere. Bamboo wins over cotton by a mile when it comes to comfort.

More absorbent and breathable than cotton

Bamboo is 40% more absorbent than even organic cotton, wicking moisture and sweat away from the skin faster to keep you dry and comfortable - perfect for warmer summer months. It also keeps you warm and toasty in cooler weather.

More durable

Bamboo is stronger and more durable than cotton so it keeps its shape longer, even after years of use. Bamboo fabric is easy to care for and its antimicrobial properties make it resistant to odour-causing bacteria, meaning you don't have to wash it as frequently as cotton.

So what do you think?

If you are looking for a material for clothing, sheets or toweling that is environmentally friendly, long wearing, looks and feels great, bamboo makes a great choice.

Check out our great deals on sustainable bamboo clothing and bamboo towels.

There are so many reasons why bamboo fabric makes a great choice for clothing, towels and bedding. 

Here are eight of the features of bamboo we love most...

1. Environmentally friendly

It's well known that bamboo is one of the world’s best sustainable resources. 

But with a growth rate of up to a metre per day, bamboo also holds the record as the world's fastest growing plant.

And it’s actually not a tree, but a grass that grows new shoots after being harvested, without having to be replanted.

Planting bamboo is a great way to reduce our carbon footprint and help fight global warming - it absorbs carbon dioxide and releases 35% more oxygen into the atmosphere than an equivalent stand of trees.

Bamboo fabric is also 100% biodegradable, making it an excellent eco-friendly clothing option.

2. Naturally organic

Bamboo grows happily without the use of pesticides, fertilisers or other chemicals.

Unlike crops such as cotton, it doesn’t require irrigation to grow, helping to conserve our planet's most precious resource.

In fact, bamboo grows like a weed... it is possible for bamboo to grow a metre in 24 hours. Can you imagine it?

3. Antibacterial, hypoallergenic and anti-static

Bamboo has a unique antibacterial quality. It contains an anti-bacteria bio-agent called “bamboo kun”, found naturally in bamboo.

This means that bamboo fabric is naturally antibacterial, no matter how many times it is washed. 

And because bacteria doesn't survive well on bamboo fabric, it is odour-resistant and more hygienic than similar fabric types. This makes it a perfect choice for clothing such as socks and active wear.

Oh, and bamboo fabric is anti-static, too. Goodbye to clingy clothes!

4. Super soft AND durable

Bamboo fabric is both strong and incredibly soft.

Not only is it durable enough to throw in the washing machine, it's breathable and lightweight at the same time. 

And the feeling of bamboo fabric against your skin is just luxurious, soft and silky - it's often compared to the feeling of cashmere and silk.

5. Absorbs moisture

Another key feature of bamboo fabric is that it absorbs (or wicks) moisture away from your skin to keep you dry and comfortable.

This feature makes it a natural choice for sporting and active wear - in particular bamboo socks keep sweaty feet dry and odour-free.

6. Friendly to sensitive skin

Because bamboo fabric is so soft and naturally antibacterial, the eco-friendly bamboo fibres do not irritate the skin. 

It's a gentle fabric, making it perfect for babies and people with skin irritations and conditions such as eczema.

7. Temperature control

Because of the moisture absorbing and natural insulating properties of bamboo fibres, bamboo can help keep you cool when it's hot and warm when it’s cold.

It's great for newborn babies who are unable to regulate their body temperature - bamboo clothing and bed linen acts as a natural thermal regulation. 

It's also helpful in managing conditions that impact the body's natural temperature control, such as multiple sclerosis.

8. UV protection

Amazingly, bamboo fabric helps cut almost 98% of harmful UV rays.

This makes bamboo clothing a perfect option for protecting your skin - and your kids' skin - against Australia's harsh summer sun.

Convinced that bamboo fabric is for you? 

Check out our range of  bamboo clothing for men and women's bamboo clothing, bed linen and bath towels.

Hello :-)

Here at Bamboo Instyle, our mission is to bring you a range of high quality, stylish and earth-friendly clothing, fashion and home products.

We will be blogging on a range of related topics such as:

• Eco-fashion
• Environmental issues
• Opinion pieces, how-to's, tips and hints
• Health and wellbeing
• Home and garden

We would love your feedback so that we know what you're interested in reading more or less of. Feel free to contact us to leave us a comment.

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Thanks for stopping by and welcome to the conversation.