Choosing towel GSM for your property

GSM (grams per square metre) is the single most useful number on a towel specification. It describes the weight of the terry, which in turn drives absorbency, drying time, laundry cost and how the towel feels in the guest's hand.

For city and business hotels with high occupancy and fast turnarounds, 450 to 550 GSM is usually the sweet spot. The towel still feels generous, dries quickly between wash cycles and takes less energy through the tunnel finisher.

Resorts, spas and suites benefit from 600 to 750 GSM. The extra loop length reads as luxury immediately, but plan for longer drying times and a slightly larger par stock so linen rooms are never short.

Whatever weight you choose, specify combed cotton, double-stitched hems and a dobby border. Those three details decide whether a towel survives 200 industrial washes looking like it should.