The 7 Best Odor-Resistant Bath Towels

In terms of odor resistance, this Supima cotton towel gets great marks, thanks to a patented Polygiene treatment — a technology used by major sports and outdoor brands that keeps fabrics smelling fresh. What’s more, it offers a top-of-the-line feel; American-grown Supima cotton features extra-long staple fibers, which result in a material with superior softness, strength, and color retention. Breathable and plush, the towel has a wide-ribbed design for a spa-like aesthetic.

According to a reviewer: “Honestly I have been searching for odor resistant towels forever. I had been buying quick dry towels thinking that was why my towels had an odor after one use. I had tried washing them with baking soda, vinegar, unstoppables, dryer sheets, etc. Nothing worked. I’d walk into the bathroom and there was that musty smell. Then I found these towels! Truly amazing! My bathroom always smells fresh & I’m always smelling the towel to see if I smell anything bad…NO!”

• Available colors: 4

• Also available on Miracle, $35

Another great Supima cotton towel, this one is infused with antimicrobial silver ions to resist odor and germ growth, and it offers a thick, plush feel for anyone who prefers to feel like they’re wrapping up in a cozy blanket post-shower. This towel has a more traditional look than the above option, but it’s similarly soft, durable, and fade-resistant.

According to a reviewer: “It’s sooooo fluffy and plush and soft. It’s not the cheapest towel on the market, but when you hold it in your hands and use it, you can feel how high quality it is! What I also love about this towel is that it it dries very quickly in between uses and doesn’t get that musty/wet smell which I hate. I would honestly recommend these to everyone looking for high quality towels.”

• Available colors: 3

• Also available on Walmart, $27

Made from 90% bamboo viscose and 10% cotton, these bamboo bath towels are thicker than many bamboo options, and they’re soft and naturally odor-resistant. Plus, bamboo is a sustainable crop, which means this is an eco-conscious pick. Although they may not as durable as some of the other options on the list, the fact that they’re sold in a set of two makes this a budget-friendly buy.

According to a reviewer: “I live in a high humidity state and most of my towels tend to get mildewy within a day or two of use. These towels retain their freshness, are soft and comfortable, and come in beautiful colors. Love them!”

• Available colors: 10

• Also available on Cariloha, $44, and Walmart, $42

The best luxury towel, this bamboo and Turkish cotton bath sheet is perfect for anyone who wants a generously sized option to wrap up in when they step out of the bath. Naturally odor-resistant, the plush towel is softer than towels made with pure cotton, and since bamboo is a sustainable resource, it’s an environmentally responsible option. Plus, it’s OEKO-TEX-certified to be free of any potentially harmful chemicals, making it a good choice for anyone with sensitive skin or allergies.

According to a reviewer: “First of all this towel is huge! And the best part is you don't have to use the entire towel to dry yourself. Only using a corner of it for my entire soaked body dry. The smell of it is real nice and doesn't get any moldy or musky scent even with months of use. The fibers are extremely soft and make your skin feel like a baby once you're dry.”

• Available colors: 2

• Also available on Walmart, $25

If you’re a frequent traveler, this microfiber option is one of the most absorbent towels on the list, not to mention fast-drying, odor-resistant, and packable. Vastly different than the others options on the list, the soft, shammy-style towels are moisture-wicking and perfect for people who prefer to pat themselves dry, as opposed to toweling off. What’s more, microfiber is gentler on hair than cotton, so you can also use them to absorb water and speed up drying time before styling.

According to a reviewer: “Replace all your towels with this. No more mildew smell from towels that take forever to dry. I can use it for wet hair which tends to soak traditional towels and makes it very heavy but this towel stays light and dries overnight!”

• Available colors and styles: 45

• Also available on Walmart, $32

Two editors on the Bustle team vouch for this Turkish cotton towel that’s thin, fast-drying, and soft as a blanket. A chic pick, it boasts the classic stripes and fringe that are characteristic of Turkish cotton towels and comes in a wide range of 35 colors. Like the above option, it’s lightweight, packable, and doubles as a beach towel.

According to a reviewer: “Bought 5 of these towels got our beach vacation and they were perfect - so lightweight, absorbent and quick drying. I was able to pack five towels in the same space two towels fit previously. A traveler's dream! And they were still large enough that no one felt like they fully covered.”

• Also available on Overstock, $38

This towel set is a great choice for anyone who’s also looking for hand towels and washcloths. Made from 100% combed cotton, the thin but soft towels dry quickly to resist odor, and the subtle popcorn texture offers a unique design element. They’re OEKO-TEX-certified to be free of any potentially harmful chemicals, making them a good option for anyone with sensitivities.

According to a reviewer: “This is the best set of towels I ever bought! This waffle design has no fraying is more absorbent and stays fresh longer. This company is my towel of choice from now on! Just bought a second set now that I know how high-quality this brand is.”

• Available colors: 30