Kitchen towels may not seem like an “essential” item – until you get your hands on a truly excellent set. And the preferably Kitchen towels are especially worthwhile: They’re incredibly absorbent and durable, often with a touch of style that elevates your entire cooking area. Our top pick, the Williams Sonoma Classic Stripe Towels, are loved by chefs and caterers across the country for their high quality and good looks—both of which they retain even after multiple washes.
The best kitchen towels are absorbent and durable, with a touch of style that will enhance your entire … (+)
“Kitchen towels are more than just utilitarian items; they serve as accents that can complement the design of the kitchen,” says Natane Boudreau, founder and interior designer at Studio Boudreau. “I like to hang them strategically where they’ll add a pop of color or texture.” When you’re looking for a brand new set of kitchen towels, it’s important to consider exactly what you’ll use them for. Sturdy towels can tackle big stains; others offer the opportunity to showcase your personal style. Below, we’ve rounded up options that will fit every need—all of the above and more.
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This is how we selected the best kitchen towels
To find the best kitchen towels, we researched the most popular brands, consulted experts, and used our own personal experience to narrow down our selection.
- We looked at the top-rated kitchen towels from trusted brands known for their quality and durability, including Williams Sonoma and Zeppoli, both of which come highly recommended by professional chefs.
- We also interviewed chefs Wayne Homsi and Jessica Randhawa and interior designer Natane Boudreau to get their professional opinion on what makes a great kitchen towel.
- We evaluated the material, size, absorbency and durability of each towel to ensure they will perform well in the home kitchen and withstand heavy use.
- We’ve included towels to suit different needs and preferences, from budget-friendly options to towels designed for specific tasks.
- We focused on products with positive customer feedback and limited ourselves to towels with an average rating of 4 stars or more.
What to look for in the best kitchen towels
material
Cotton is king when it comes to kitchen towels. Both chefs and interior designers agree that you should always buy 100% cotton towels as they are highly absorbent, durable and gentle on all surfaces. They can also be washed frequently and remain effective for a long time. Avoid synthetic materials as they tend to be less absorbent and can even melt in high heat.
absorbency
A good kitchen towel should be able to absorb a lot of liquid without becoming too soggy. Towels with weaves such as waffle or terry cloth have a larger surface area, making them more absorbent. Homsi points out that good towels dry large quantities of dishes and glasses without needing to be replaced and that they don’t leave behind lint.
durability
Durability is key, especially if you use your towels for heavy-duty tasks like mopping up hot pots or cleaning up large spills. Look for towels with strong, hemmed edges to prevent fraying and tearing. High-quality cotton towels will withstand frequent washing and heavy use while maintaining their shape and effectiveness.
Size and thickness
The size and thickness of the towel are also important. Larger towels cover a larger area and provide better protection, which is ideal when handling hot items. Thicker towels absorb more liquid and provide extra padding when needed. Homsi prefers towels that are large and thick enough to fold over for extra protection.
Style and design
Kitchen towels can also add some personality to your kitchen. Interior designer Natane Boudreau recommends choosing towels that match your kitchen’s color palette and design. Bold colors and patterns can pop in a neutral kitchen, while more muted tones can balance out a colorful space. Think about towels that add some texture or pattern to complete the look of your kitchen.
What is the best material for kitchen towels?
The best material for kitchen towels is 100% cotton. “No synthetic fibers or fabrics—synthetics are less absorbent,” explains Homsi. “And these towels can melt in high heat.” Cotton can do any job: it’s highly absorbent, soft, and durable, making it perfect for mopping up spills, drying dishes, and handling hot pots and pans. It can also easily be washed frequently and is gentle enough for use on all surfaces.
What kind of kitchen towels do chefs use?
Both chefs we spoke with use Williams Sonoma towels, particularly the Classic Stripe Towels. These towels are durable, absorbent, and look great in any home kitchen. The Zeppoli Classic Dish Towels are also popular in professional kitchens because they’re affordable, come in bulk, and hold up well to heavy use. In general, Homsi looks for towels that are absorbent, quick-drying, lint-free, and durable enough for hot dishes. He also appreciates towels that are soft and appealing, so he knows they’ll be up to the task and look good doing it.
