Bed & Bath Linens

Hand Towel

A hand towel is a medium-sized towel, typically measuring approximately 16 by 28 inches, designed specifically for drying hands after washing at bathroom and kitchen sinks. As one of the most visible and frequently used textiles in the home, hand towels serve an important dual purpose: functional drying and decorative accent. A well-chosen hand towel can reinforce the design theme of a bathroom or kitchen while providing a hygienic alternative to shared cloth towels or disposable paper products. The placement and presentation of hand towels has become a point of design emphasis in bathroom styling. Neatly folded or artfully draped hand towels communicate attention to detail and hospitality, particularly in guest bathrooms and powder rooms. Many homeowners maintain two sets of hand towels: everyday towels for personal use and decorative guest towels that are displayed for visitors. The frequency with which hand towels are used means they should be laundered every two to three days to maintain hygiene, making durability and color-fastness important selection criteria.

Key Characteristics

  • Standard size approximately 16 by 28 inches
  • Most frequently used bathroom textile
  • Serves both functional and decorative purposes
  • Should be laundered every two to three days
  • Available in coordinating sets with bath towels
  • Key design element in powder rooms and guest baths

Types & Variations

Standard terry hand towel
Fingertip towel for guests
Monogrammed hand towel
Embroidered decorative towel
Waffle weave hand towel

Common Materials

Cotton terryTurkish cottonLinenCotton-linen blendBamboo cottonOrganic cotton

Works Well With These Styles

Placement & Usage Tips

Hang hand towels on a ring or bar positioned within easy reach of the sink at approximately hip height. In powder rooms, fold decorative hand towels in a fan or pocket fold for visual interest. Replace hand towels before guests arrive for a fresh, welcoming impression.

💡 Pro Tip

For guest bathrooms, keep a small basket of rolled fingertip towels beside the sink as an alternative to a hanging hand towel. Guests often feel uncomfortable using a neatly displayed hand towel, but a basket of individual towels communicates that they are meant to be used and can be placed in a hamper after a single use.