“Turkish towel” can refer to more than one construction. Plush terry towels and flat-woven peshtemals can both be Turkish textile products, but they feel and perform differently because their structures are different.
What Is a Turkish Terry Towel?
A terry towel uses loops on the fabric surface. These loops increase surface area and create the familiar plush feel associated with bath towels, bath sheets and many hotel towels.
What Is a Peshtemal?
A peshtemal is a flat-woven towel style traditionally associated with Turkish bathing culture. It has a flatter construction than terry and is often chosen when lower bulk and easier packing are priorities.
Terry vs Peshtemal: Key Differences
| Feature | Terry Towel | Peshtemal |
|---|---|---|
| Surface | Looped | Flat-woven |
| Feel | Plusher | Flatter and lighter |
| Bulk | Higher | Lower |
| Typical use | Bath, guest bathroom, spa | Travel, beach, light everyday use |
| Packing | Takes more space | Easier to fold compactly |
Which One Is Better for the Bathroom?
If you prefer a plush, traditional bath-towel feel, terry is usually the more familiar choice. If compact storage and lower bulk matter more, a flat-woven towel may suit you better.
Which One Works Better for Travel or the Beach?
A peshtemal can be convenient when you want a towel that packs smaller. A terry bath sheet may be preferable when you prioritize a fuller, plusher feel and more wraparound coverage.
How Does SALBAKOS Fit In?
SALBAKOS offers Turkish cotton bath towels and bath sheets, including terry formats for everyday bathroom use and larger-coverage options. Browse our Turkish Towels or compare larger sizes in our Oversized Bath Sheets.
Quick Answer
Are all Turkish towels peshtemals?
No. Turkish towels can include flat-woven peshtemals as well as plush terry bath towels and bath sheets.


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