How to Know if a Turkish Towel Is Real
Spot the difference between authentic and imitation towels.
Turkish towels are known for being lightweight, absorbent, quick-drying, and beautiful. But not all of them are the real deal. With so many lookalikes out there, how can you tell if you're getting a true Turkish towel?
Here are a few simple ways to find out:
1. Check the Label
Real Turkish towels are made with 100% Turkish cotton. This special cotton has long fibers, which makes the towel soft, strong, and more absorbent. If it says “cotton blend,” “bamboo,” or includes synthetic fibers like polyester—it’s not the real thing.
2. Look at the Weave
Authentic Turkish towels come in two traditional styles: flat-woven and thick-looped (terry weave). Flat towels are lightweight and quick-drying, while thick-looped ones are made by weaving a second thread into the fabric to create soft loops—resulting in a plush, absorbent feel. Handwoven towels often show small variations in the weave or fringe—beautiful signs of craftsmanship. If the towel looks too perfect, identical to others, or has a synthetic feel, it’s likely machine-made.
3. Fringe Matters
Real towels often have hand-tied fringe at the ends. If the tassels look too perfect or are sewn on by machine, that’s a clue the towel may be mass-produced.
4. Feel the Fabric
Genuine Turkish towels feel soft, light, and a little airy. They get even softer with use. If the towel feels stiff or heavy, it may not be made with the right cotton or may be over-treated with chemicals.
5. Check Where It’s Made
It should be made in Turkey. That’s where the tradition comes from! Brands that work directly with Turkish weavers will usually tell you that clearly. If the towel is made elsewhere, it might not follow the same standards.
6. Look for Character
Handwoven towels have small, beautiful differences—like slight pattern shifts or natural-looking edges. These aren’t flaws—they’re signs that someone made your towel by hand.
Why Buy Authentic?
When you choose a real Turkish towel, you’re getting more than just a towel. You’re supporting traditional artisans, sustainable practices, and lasting quality.
At Lavender Road, all of our towels are handwoven in Turkey by skilled artisans using time-honored methods. We only carry what we truly love—and we believe you’ll love them too.
Shop our authentic Turkish towels here.
Real towels. Real tradition. Really beautiful.