Terry vs. Waffle – Bath Textiles Compared
Short answer: Terry and waffle are the two main weaves in bath textiles. Terry has a pile of small loops that absorb a lot of water and feel thick and warm, while waffle fabric is light, dries quickly and takes up less space. In bamboo both become extra soft and stay fresh for longer.
Terry: loops that absorb
Terry is woven with small loops of thread on both sides of the fabric. The loops create a large surface, which is why a terry towel absorbs a lot of water quickly. It feels thick, soft and warm when you wrap up after a shower. On the other hand it takes more cupboard space and dries more slowly.
Waffle: light and quick drying
Waffle fabric has a pattern of small hollows that looks like a waffle. The structure brings air into the fabric, so it is light and dries quickly, even in a small bathroom with little ventilation. A waffle towel takes up little space and is easy to pack for travel, the gym bag or a weekend away.
Two answers to the same task
Terry and waffle solve the same task in their own way. Terry gives maximum absorbency and a warm, luxurious feel, while waffle gives lightness and fast drying. Many choose terry for the daily shower at home and waffle for travel, the beach or the guest room. There is no single right answer, only the one that suits your routine.
Why bamboo in bath textiles?
Bamboo viscose makes a towel softer and more pleasant against the skin. The fibre absorbs moisture well and helps keep the textile fresh, so it is less likely to get the sour smell damp towels can pick up. Browse our bamboo towels, where you will find different sizes for hands, body and guests. Read more in the article on bamboo in the home.
From bath to bathrobe
The same logic applies to the bathrobe. A terry robe gives that warm winter feel and dries you after the shower, while lighter qualities suit summer and travel. Find yours among our bamboo bathrobes for women or bamboo bathrobes for men, and choose by how much warmth and absorbency you need.
Keeping towels soft
Wash bamboo towels at 40 degrees with a mild detergent and skip the fabric softener. Softener leaves a film on the fibres that makes them less absorbent. Shake the towel well before hanging it up, so the loops lift again. If you tumble dry, use low heat and take the towels out while they are still slightly damp.
Hang them up properly
A towel left folded on a hook dries slowly and can start to smell. Instead, hang it out at full width on a rail or rack, so the air can reach it. This matters most for terry, which holds more water. Waffle fabric is more forgiving, but it also benefits from room to dry.
A whole home in the same softness
Towels and bathrobes are only part of it. Many people like the textiles at home to feel the same, from the bathroom to the sofa and the bed. Explore the full range for home and homewear in bamboo, where you will find everything from towels to relaxed clothing made for quiet days indoors.
Frequently asked questions
Which absorbs better, terry or waffle?
Terry usually absorbs the most, because the loops create a large surface. Waffle fabric also absorbs well, but it is thinner and in return dries much faster on the hook.
Why do my towels go stiff?
Stiff towels are often caused by limescale, too much detergent or fabric softener. Use less detergent, skip the softener and shake the towels well before you hang them to dry.
Is waffle good for travel?
Yes, waffle fabric is light, takes up little space and dries quickly, so it fits well in a suitcase or gym bag. It can also dry overnight in a hotel room.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
