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The 7 best microfiber towels in 2024?

by Laura

microfiber_towel
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Small and lightweight, microfiber towels fit easily into any bag or backpack. They also absorb moisture effectively – whether you are drying yourself, your camping harness or even your dog.

The best is yet to come:

Microfiber towels also dry very quickly. Thanks to their properties, they are suitable for practically any occasion, for example for sports, camping or trekking.

How to find the right microfiber towel:

The selection of microfiber towels is huge. BeyondSurfing has put together a detailed buying guide for you with the best microfiber towels 2024.

Microfiber Towel Checklist

  • Weight: Microfiber towels are lighter and more compact than cotton towels.
  • Benefits: Although they are very thin, microfiber towels are very absorbent and absorb many times their weight in water.
  • Application: Microfiber towels are versatile, especially for sports and outdoor activities.

Also interesting: The most popular swim bags reviewed.

These are the top 7 microfiber towels in 2024

How do we rate? Our experts thoroughly research and evaluate each recommendation. We take into account the most important product features, adherence to quality standards, prices, customer reviews, our own experiences, and much more. Learn more about our process.

1. fit-flip microfiber towel

Advantages

  • 8 different sizes in 12 colors
  • Particularly hard-wearing seams
  • Antibacterial fibers

Disadvantages

  • Haptics take some getting used to
  • May rub off at first

Summary

Fit-Flip is a small family business from Germany that specializes in microfiber products. They offer their towel in 8 different sizes and up to 12 colors.

The antibacterial fibers counteract unpleasant odors and make the towel suitable even for sensitive skin. It is also highly absorbent and quick-drying.

The seams are made of particularly robust and very finely stitched thread. The corners are sewn round to make the towel even more durable. It can be flexibly hung on poles, branches or rucksacks with a press stud loop.

The towel can be folded up compactly and stored in the mesh bag supplied to save space. The high-quality material is also up to 60% lighter than a cotton towel.

Conclusion

A high-quality and extremely hard-wearing microfiber towel with a choice of different sizes.

Product details

Number of pieces in set: 1 | Size: 30 x 50 cm to 100 x 200 cm | Weight: 35 g to 405 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 95% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The microfiber towel is light, compact and surprisingly absorbent. You can dry yourself well with it. It dries very quickly afterwards. Even with frequent use, it does not absorb any unpleasant odors. The flexible eyelet for hanging is also very practical.

Around 3% are neutral about the product, while 2% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

The feel of the towel takes some getting used to, as it is thinner than normal towels and feels different. It stains strongly, especially in dark colors, and must be washed separately several times at the beginning. It is also comparatively heavy for microfiber.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Do the towels develop an unpleasant odor when they are wet?
No, thanks to the antibacterial fibers, no unpleasant odor develops.
Do the towels fluff?
No, the towels do not fluff.

2. 2-pack VACNITE microfiber travel towel

Advantages

  • Set of 2 with bath and face towel
  • Antibacterial properties and soft feel
  • 2 carrying bags for easy transportation

Disadvantages

  • Towels may fluff at first
  • Light color very sensitive to dirt

Summary

The set consists of a large bath towel and a smaller face towel, which is also ideal for trekking or fitness. Both towels are soft and very gentle on the skin thanks to the high thread count, even on children’s sensitive skin.

The antibacterial properties of the material prevent the formation of unpleasant odors, even after repeated use. The towels are absorbent and dry up to 10 times faster than cotton towels after use.

The pack size of these microfiber towels is four times smaller than terry towels of the same size. Each of the two towels comes with a practical mesh bag for transportation.

The towels are available in 3 colors. They are each provided with an elastic loop for hanging. They can be machine washed at up to 40°, although the manufacturer recommends hand washing as it is gentler on the material.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a good quality towel set with a great price-performance ratio, this is the place to go.

Product details

Number of pieces in set: 2 | Size: 152 x 80 cm and 80 x 34 cm | Weight: N/A

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 95% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The soft towel feels pleasant on the skin. It is highly absorbent and dries the body in a short time. As the towels dry quickly, they can be packed up again soon after use. They take up little space. You can either hold them together with the loop or use the bag supplied. The design is simple but elegant.

Around 1% are neutral about the product, while 4% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

Some customers complained about lint on the towel. The color does not always match the picture and stains are quickly visible on the light-colored variants. The towel soaks up water quickly and is then no longer suitable for drying.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Does the towel stain during washing?
No, the towel does not stain. To be on the safe side, however, it is always advisable to wash it separately before using it for the first time.
Do the towels have a hanger?
Yes, each towel is provided with a loop. This can also be used to hold the towel together when folded.

3. fit-flip microfiber cooling towel

Advantages

  • Immediate cooling effect
  • Oeko-Tex certified for skin friendliness
  • Waterproof carrying bag included in delivery

Disadvantages

  • Cooling effect not comparable with ice pack
  • Unpleasant chemical odor before the first wash
  • Storage bag not very hard-wearing

Summary

The Fit-Flip microfiber towel was developed as a cooling towel for sports and hot temperatures. The so-called evaporative cooling technology ensures an immediate cooling effect through evaporation. All you have to do is wet the towel and shake it out a few times.

As long as the towel is wet, the cooling effect can be reactivated at any time by shaking it out again and lasts for up to 2 hours.

The microfiber (composed of polyamide and polyester) feels soft on the skin. It has been tested for skin-friendliness in accordance with Oeko-Tex and also protects against UV radiation up to SPF 30.

A waterproof bag is included in the delivery. The towel can also be transported in it when wet. Versatile folding instructions are also included. The manufacturer Fit-Flip gives a 5-year guarantee on the product.

Conclusion

Do you do a lot of sport or want to cool down in the summer heat without having to carry a lot of weight? Then this microfiber cooling towel is perfect for you.

Product details

Number of pieces in set: 1 | Size: 100 x 30 cm | Weight: 50 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 94% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The towel provides an effective cooling effect that ideally lasts up to 2 hours. It is also easy to carry. This makes it perfect for sports and heat. The good material shows no signs of wear even after repeated use.

Around 3% are neutral about the product, while 3% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

Some customers are disappointed by the cooling effect and find it no better than when an ordinary towel is immersed in water – with the only difference being that this product is lighter and does not scratch. The cooling effect is sometimes quickly lost. Initially, the towel smells unpleasantly of chemicals. The storage bag can break quickly.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Is the towel also suitable for absorbing sweat during sport?
Yes, the towel is very absorbent and therefore absorbs sweat well.
Is the towel machine washable?
Yes, the towel can be machine washed at up to 40°.

4. mountain brother microfiber towel

Advantages

  • Different sizes and color variations available
  • Double stitched for longer durability
  • Push-button loop for hanging

Disadvantages

  • Skin feel takes some getting used to
  • Towel only fits exactly folded back into carrying bag
  • May smell unpleasant at first

Summary

This multifunctional microfiber towel has the brand quality of a renowned German company. The microfiber fabric is high-quality, hard-wearing and dirt-repellent.

The towel is double-stitched so that the seam cannot simply come undone. The towels with colorful nylon borders and subtle colors do not stain. The skin-friendly and antibacterial material is soft to the touch.

The towels absorb eight times more water than comparable cotton models and then air dry up to four times faster. They can be hung up anywhere with the press stud loop.

The microfiber towel is available in different sizes. All versions are ultra-light and compact and can be washed in the washing machine at 30-40°. A practical carrying bag is included.

Conclusion

Are you looking for a high-quality microfiber towel with an elegant but understated design? This model offers you all this in various sizes and formats at a reasonable price.

Product details

Number of pieces in set: 1 | Size: 80 x 40 cm to 180 x 90 cm | Weight: 65 g to 345 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 96% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The towel is absorbent and quick-drying. It also feels pleasant on the skin. The storage bag is very sturdy. The towel also has a practical loop. The workmanship and stitching are of high quality. The design is discreet, but still unique thanks to the colored edges.

Around 2% are neutral about the product, while 2% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

The skin feel of microfiber takes some getting used to. After use, the towel must be folded precisely to fit back into the bag. Some customers initially complained about an unpleasant odor.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Can the towel also be used in the sauna?
Yes, the towel can be used for the sauna. However, as it is thinner than cotton towels, it may be less comfortable to sit on.
Does the edge of the towel fray after repeated washing?
No, the edge is double-stitched and does not fray.

5. nirvana shape microfiber towel

Advantages

  • Developed by athletes and backpackers for maximum functionality
  • Corner pocket with zipper for valuables
  • Press studs for attaching to fitness equipment
  • Available in different colors and sizes

Disadvantages

  • Hanger scratches when drying
  • Towel heats up strongly
  • Heavy discoloration during the first few washes

Summary

The microfiber towel was developed by athletes and backpackers and impresses with its functionality.

It is equipped with a zippered pocket on one corner. Small items such as cell phones and keys can be easily stowed away. The zipper is covered with soft fabric to prevent scratching when drying.

The towel has a press stud loop for hanging up. Additional press studs at the corners allow the microfiber cloth to be attached to sports equipment in the gym, for example. The corners themselves are rounded so that the continuous and color-contrasting hem prevents fraying.

The absorbent microfiber absorbs eight times more water than an ordinary terry towel. It also dries five times faster outdoors. The material is odor-inhibiting and the weight and pack size are small.

The towel is available in various color combinations. It can be washed in the washing machine.

Conclusion

The best choice for all athletes! The many functional details make this towel the ideal companion in the gym.

Product details

Number of pieces in set: 2 | Size: 140 x 70 cm and 60 x 40 cm | Weight: 222 g and 60 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 97% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The towel is both stylish and functional. The corner pocket is perfect for storing small items such as a locker key. The towel can be transported in the supplied bag to save space. The material and workmanship are of high quality. Customers particularly praise its good absorbency.

Around 2% are neutral about the product, while 2% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

The hanger is made of a harder material than the towel and scratches when drying. The towel can heat up quickly in the sauna or on the beach in the sun. It discolors strongly during the first few washes.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Do I have to wash the towels before using them for the first time?
Yes, it is recommended to wash the towels before using them for the first time. This is best done separately, as the towels may stain the first time you wash them.
Can I put the towels in the dryer?
This is generally possible as long as the gentle cycle is used. However, this puts a lot of strain on the material, which shortens the life of the towel.

6. be-maxx microfiber towel

Special Offer

Advantages

  • Bath towel and cooling towel set
  • Bath towel with hanger and corner pocket
  • Dries very quickly

Disadvantages

  • Contradictory washing instructions
  • Staining possible on first wash

Summary

The set of 2 microfiber towels contains a large bath towel and a small cooling towel. Both are compact and lightweight. The bath towel can be folded approx. four times smaller than a terry towel of the same size.

The towel can absorb three to four times its weight in water. Afterwards it dries ten times faster than cotton. The bath towel has a hanger and a corner pocket with a zipper for storing valuables.

The breathable cooling towel has a highly absorbent fiber weave technology. This enables it to regulate and store the water inside. To activate the cooling effect, the towel is made wet.

Simply wring out the excess water and then shake out the cloth a few times. If it is now placed around the neck, shoulders or arms, it immediately has a cooling effect. The cooling towel is also sweat-absorbent.

Conclusion

A very good combination of bath towel and cooling towel, with which you are perfectly equipped for various outdoor activities.

Product details

Number of pieces in set: 2 | Size: 140 x 70 cm and 70 x 40 cm | Weight: 285 g

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 98% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

The bath towel feels pleasantly soft on the skin. The hanger and the corner pocket prove to be practical. It dries quickly and can be folded up compactly. The cooling cloth absorbs perspiration well. Both towels are lightweight and made of high-quality material.

Around 2% are neutral about the product, while 0% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.

The washing instructions on the bag and the towel itself are contradictory. The towel discolors after the first wash. As the towel absorbs water when drying off, it is not suitable for wrapping yourself in afterwards. The warming effect of cotton towels is absent.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Can the towel also be used in the sauna?
Yes, the larger bath towel is suitable for the sauna.

7. cokwel travel towel set

Advantages

  • Set of 3 towels in different sizes
  • Absorbent and quick-drying
  • Each towel with hanging loop and carrying bag

Disadvantages

  • Seams can come loose
  • Hanger can come off
  • Thinner and less absorbent than other microfiber towels

Summary

The set consists of 3 microfiber towels in different sizes. The small towel is ideal for visits to the gym or as a tea towel. The medium towel is perfect for camping and trekking. The large bath towel can be used for the beach or lake.

All three towels are extremely absorbent. They can each absorb three to four times their weight in water. Nevertheless, they remain light.

The towels dry up to ten times faster than towels made of cotton or terry cloth. This means they can be used several times a day without any problems.

A mesh bag is supplied for the towels, in which they can be transported to save space. Each towel is also provided with a loop for hanging.

Conclusion

Do you want to stock up on microfiber towels right away? With this set you get 3 practical sizes. So you have the right towel for every occasion.

Product details

Number of pieces in the set: 3 | Size: 152 x 80 cm; 80 x 34 cm and 38 x 38 cm | Weight: 360 g (entire set)

Customer ratings

What customers say
A full 84% of all customers rate the product as good to very good with four to five stars.

Customers rate the towels as very practical. They hardly weigh anything and don’t take up any space in your luggage. They can be attached to the rucksack using the loop. They absorb moisture effectively and dry quickly afterwards. Overall, the towels are of good quality and workmanship.

Around 9% are neutral about the product, while 7% rate the product as poor and inadequate.

For some customers, the seams came loose or the hanging loops fell off. The material is very thin, even for microfiber, and therefore absorbs less well than comparable products.

Click here to go directly to the customer reviews “

FAQ

Is it difficult to get the towels back into the bags?
No, folding the towels is not difficult. They fit easily back into the pockets.
Are the towels antibacterial?
The towels have not been specially treated with antibacterial agents. However, the composition of the microfiber is naturally dirt-repellent, so that bacteria have little breeding ground.

Bestsellers: The most popular microfiber towels

What do others buy? In our bestseller list, we present the TOP 11 most purchased offers. The selection is updated daily.

(**Last update 2024-09-16)

Buy microfiber towels:
How to make the right decision

microfiber_towel_test

All microfiber towels combine certain properties. They are compact, highly absorbent and dry quickly. To find out which towel is best for you, you need to go beyond these characteristics.

This means:

In the following buying guide, BeyondSurfing shows you what distinguishes microfiber towels and what differences you need to pay particular attention to. Bad buys are a thing of the past!

What you need to consider when buying a microfiber towel

When buying a microfiber towel, you should consider the following properties:

  • Comfort
  • Size
  • Transport properties
  • Absorbency
  • Time to dry
  • Price

Comfort of microfiber towels

Microfiber is usually compared to the feel of suede or suede leather. This means that microfiber feels different from cotton.

What many people don’t know:

Many people therefore initially find the skin feeling unpleasant. But after a little getting used to it, most people quickly find the feel of microfiber towels appealing.

The following features ensure optimum comfort
  1. The skin should feel soft and velvety

    Microfiber may lack cuddliness, but you shouldn’t skimp on softness. Nothing should scratch or feel uncomfortable.

  2. Pay attention to skin friendliness

    Good towels are not only antibacterial, but also skin-friendly. Especially if you have sensitive skin, you should avoid products with allergenic ingredients or chemical colors.

  3. Pay attention to antimicrobial properties

    Microfiber towels are often used for sports or camping. They come into contact with a lot of sweat without necessarily having to be washed after every use. To keep odor-causing bacteria at bay, the microfiber towel should therefore have antimicrobial properties.

Pro tip: Certificates such as Ökotex 100 prove that a product has been tested for skin friendliness and is harmless.
An antimicrobial effect can be achieved in various ways

Manufacturers use the following methods to make their towels antibacterial:

  • Use of silver ions
  • Use of materials with natural antimicrobial properties
  • Antimicrobial treatments

These methods restrict the growth of bacteria. This also prevents bad odors from forming and the towel from stinking.

Good to know: The antimicrobial effect of all methods diminishes over time.

The right microfiber towel size

Microfiber towels are very versatile. As a result, they are available in many different sizes.

Which size for which purpose?

A smaller size is sufficient for use as a dish towel or hand towel than for drying off or as a beach towel on vacation.

The purpose and recommended size for the microfiber towel at a glance:

PurposeSize
Face or hand towel40 x 60 cm
Dish towel50 x 100 cm
Sports towel30 x 120 cm
Bath towel for drying off75 x 150 cm
Beach towel to lie on100 x 180 cm
XL beach towels150 x 200 cm

Please note: a larger towel is always heavier and less compact.

This is particularly important if you are carrying the towel over long distances, such as when trekking or camping. However, if you are traveling by car, a little more volume will hardly matter.

How easy is it to transport a microfiber towel?

Microfiber is basically very light and compact. In this respect, there are usually only minor differences between the various manufacturers.

But:

If you are taking the towel backpacking, it may still be worth paying attention to the weight specifications. After all, every gram counts on a trip like this.

A separate carrier bag should be included:

Since microfiber towels are designed for easy transport, they are almost always supplied with their own small bag. They can either be rolled up or folded and stowed away to save space.

Which is particularly practical:

The bag should be able to be attached to rucksacks using carabiners or loops.

Exception: Cooling towels can be a little heavier

Some microfiber towels are specially designed as cooling towels. They have to be transported wet to have a cooling effect. This makes them somewhat heavier than normal microfiber towels.

The following applies: Cooling Towels belong in waterproof carrier bags to protect your luggage from getting wet.

How absorbent is the microfiber towel?

Microfiber is a combination of polyester and polyamide. It is therefore very absorbent despite its low thickness.

Did you know?

A good microfiber towel can absorb three to seven times its own weight in water.

In principle, the following applies:

The more absorbent the towel is, the faster and more effectively you can dry yourself with it.

The right technique for drying with microfiber

Water absorption works slightly differently with microfiber than with cotton. The water is stored and held between the fibers.

To dry yourself effectively, you should therefore always dab yourself with a towel. If you rub yourself with it, you will dry very slowly.

How quickly does the microfiber towel dry?

Carrying a wet towel around with you is unpleasant and has numerous disadvantages:

  • it is heavier than when dry
  • the moisture promotes the growth of bacteria and mold
  • Unpleasant odors develop
  • other items get wet when they are transported together

How can you tell if the microfiber towel dries quickly?

✓ Simply wringing them out can help:
As water is held between the fibers in the microfiber towel, simply wringing it out is very effective. A large part of the water is already pressed out of the towel.

Afterwards, the towel dries fastest when it is in the fresh air.

✓ Useful extras support the drying process:
A hanger on the towel, which can be used to attach it to branches or poles, speeds up the drying process. Finally, the towel can be hung in the most convenient place for drying.

Carrier bags with a net are also practical. These are hung on the rucksack and the towel continues to dry thanks to the draught on the way.

How expensive is a microfiber towel?

On average, microfiber towels range in price from 5 to 20 $.

Towels can be even cheaper at discount stores such as Aldi or Lidl and online. Decathlon also occasionally has good deals.

What does the price depend on?

The following factors have the greatest impact on the price:

  • Size
  • Manufacturer
  • Quality
  • Color

Does high quality mean a high price?

Expensive branded towels are often of higher quality and therefore more durable. Well-known manufacturers include, among others:


Fit-Flip, Bergbruder, AmazonBasics, WildHorn Outfitters


Cheaper products are often just as functional and high quality as branded products, but may not last as long.

Cooling towels are the exception. Here BeyondSurfing recommends choosing the slightly higher-priced products in order to get good quality.

Good to know: Consumer Reports or Öko-Test have not yet published any test reports on microfiber towels.

The right way to clean and care for microfiber towels

microfiber_towel_wash

Most microfiber towels are machine washable at 30-40°. However, to avoid damaging the material, higher temperatures should not be used:

  1. Wash separately at the beginning

    Microfiber towels often stain strongly during the first wash. This is especially true for dark or bright colors.

    In addition, the towels may smell a little unpleasant before the first wash. It is therefore advisable to always wash them separately before using them for the first time and a few times afterwards.

  2. Hand washing is gentler

    Even if a towel can withstand machine washing according to the manufacturer, hand washing is always gentler on the material. This can extend the life of the towel.

  3. Air drying makes the towel last longer

    The same applies to the dryer. Some models can be dried on a gentle cycle, but this will damage the material.

    Air drying is gentle on the towel and it will last longer.

Important: Fabric softener or other harsh chemicals should always be avoided.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers

What is a microfiber towel?

Microfiber is a mixture of polyester and polyamide. Towels made from this material are thinner and lighter than ordinary towels. They are therefore particularly popular for sports, camping and traveling.

What is the advantage of microfiber towels?

Microfiber towels weigh less than cotton towels and are more compact. They also dry much faster and are very absorbent.

How do you clean microfiber towels?

Many microfiber towels can be machine washed in cold or lukewarm water. Some, however, require hand washing. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Are microfiber towels suitable for the dryer?

No, dryers damage the material of microfiber towels in the long term and thus reduce their durability.

Where can you buy a microfiber towel?

Microfiber towels are available at discount stores and occasionally at Tchibo. They are also stocked by sporting goods and outdoor stores. However, online retailers such as Amazon still offer the largest selection.

What should I look out for when buying microfiber towels?

The most important thing is to choose the right size for your purposes. Also look out for practical extras such as carrier bags and hangers.

Which microfiber towels are good?

If you want a long-lasting towel, look for good workmanship and a soft feel on the skin.

Which microfiber towel size is best?

This depends on the intended use. A bath towel should be approx. 75 x 150 cm, less is sufficient for a sports towel or dish towel for camping.

Conclusion: The most popular microfiber towels reviewed

A microfiber towel is a versatile companion for travel, sports and outdoor activities. With the BeyondSurfing buying guide, you are guaranteed to find the right towel for your needs.

Specialist literature, sources & further links

You can find more information on this topic here:

  • How backpackers pack properly: https://www.n-tv.de/ratgeber/So-packen-Backpacker-richtig-article21182191.html

Note: BeyondSurfing is not responsible and is not liable for the content of external websites.

Editor's note: The opinions expressed here are those of the author alone. The content has not been endorsed, reviewed, approved, or in any way financially supported by any advertiser. We only include products we believe to be useful. How we work

*Price includes VAT, plus shipping. Customer reviews, prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. By linking to selected online shops and partners, we may receive a small affiliate commission. There are no additional costs for you.

Laura

Beach and snorkeling expert
Laura lives in Greece and couldn't imagine a day without the sea on her doorstep. When she's not writing for BeyondSurfing, she likes to spend her free time on the beach or in the water with snorkeling gear.

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