Once used exclusively in the ancient Turkish bathhouses known as hammams, the peshtemal (also spelled pestemal) has evolved far beyond its humble beginnings. Today, it graces five-star resorts, chic beach clubs, and the bathrooms of design-savvy homes around the world. So how did this centuries-old towel become such a modern-day essential?
Let’s take a journey from tradition to trend—and discover what makes the peshtemal a timeless classic with serious staying power.
A Brief History of the Peshtemal
The peshtemal has its roots deep in Ottoman culture, where it was originally woven by artisans and used by men and women in Turkish hammams. Lightweight, absorbent, and quick-drying, it was the perfect towel for the steamy ritual of communal bathing.
But this wasn’t just a functional item. The peshtemal was (and still is) often made on hand-guided looms using natural cotton, with distinctive regional patterns that signaled where someone was from—like a woven passport. Many families passed them down through generations, making them part of the fabric of everyday life—literally.
The Global Comeback: Beach, Bath, and Beyond
Over the past couple of decades, interior designers, travelers, and eco-conscious shoppers have rediscovered the peshtemal—and fallen in love.
Here’s why:
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Super versatile: Use it as a bath towel, beach towel, scarf, wrap, picnic blanket, baby swaddle, or even a throw.
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Eco-friendly: Because it’s thin yet absorbent, it uses less water and energy to wash and dry.
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Travel-friendly: Folds flat, weighs almost nothing, and dries quickly—no musty suitcase smells.
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Stylish: The minimalist stripes and soft fringe look at home anywhere—from a coastal New England bathroom to a rooftop pool in Miami.
And let’s be honest: there’s something about casually draping a Turkish towel over a beach chair that just feels a little more luxe.
From Tradition to Trend (Without Losing Its Soul)
While the peshtemal has definitely had a glow-up, the best ones—like those from The Turkish Towel Company—stay true to their roots. That means:
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Loomed in Turkey by skilled artisans
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Made from premium, long-staple cotton
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Free from harmful chemicals (look for OEKO-TEX® certification)
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Designed to last for years, not just seasons
So when you wrap yourself in a peshtemal, you’re not just drying off. You’re connecting to a rich textile tradition that’s been refined over centuries—and now reimagined for today’s world.
Why You’ll Love Owning One (Or Three)
If you haven’t tried a peshtemal yet, now’s the time. It’s not just a towel—it’s a lifestyle upgrade. Whether you’re lounging in your backyard, jetting off to Europe, or simply stepping out of a warm shower, a peshtemal wraps you in comfort, history, and effortless style.
And once you try one, trust us… you’ll never go back to bulky terry towels again.
Ready to make the switch?
Explore our collection of authentic Turkish peshtemals.