Why Pet Towels Are Different

If you’ve ever tried to dry a soaking-wet dog after a bath, or clean muddy paws after a rainy walk, you know that your regular bath towels just don’t cut it. Pet towels are designed specifically for the needs of dogs, cats, and other furry friends: they dry faster, absorb more water, resist odors, and are durable enough to handle claws and fur.

Unlike human towels, pet towels are built for heavy use and easy cleaning. Investing in the right set can make grooming less stressful for you and more comfortable for your pet.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best pet towel options by material, size, and use case, compare budget vs. premium choices, and share care tips so your towels last.

Quick Take: What Makes a Great Pet Towel

Here are a few of the key features that make for a great pet towel, so you know what to look out for: 

• High Absorbency – Microfiber or Turkish cotton for fast drying.
  
  

• Durability – Strong stitching, resistant to tearing or fraying.
  
  

• Odor & Stain Resistance – Materials that wash clean easily.
  
  

• Sand & Dirt Resistance – Especially important for dogs at the beach or park.
  
  

• Easy Care – Machine-washable, quick-dry fabric.
  
  

• Pet-Friendly Features – Hooded towels, mitt-style gloves, or blanket sizes.
  
  

Explore Hencely’s Towel Collection for versatile cotton and microfiber options that double as pet-friendly towels.

Who Needs Pet Towels?

From everyday owners to professionals, quick-dry, absorbent towels make grooming, cleaning, and travel easier for you and your pets. Here are the types of people who would benefit from pet towels: 

• Dog Owners – From tiny Chihuahuas to big Golden Retrievers, pets need quick-dry options after baths, swims, or rainy walks.
  
  

• Cat Owners – Cats rarely love baths, but when they do need cleaning, soft and gentle towels reduce stress.
  
  

• Pet Groomers – Professional groomers rely on highly absorbent, fast-drying towels to handle multiple pets daily.
  
  

• Veterinarians & Shelters – Bulk towels are essential for hygiene and comfort.
  
  

• Families on the Go – Towels in the car save seats from muddy paws and wet fur.

Materials: Which Towels Work Best for Pets?

With several materials to consider, it can feel confusing knowing which one to pick. Here are the best towel materials and what they offer so you can decide on what’s best for your pets:

1. Microfiber Towels 

Pros:

• Ultra-absorbent, dries fur quickly.
  
  

• Lightweight and compact.
  
  

• Sand and dirt shake off easily.
  
  

Cons:

• Synthetic feel may not suit every pet.
  
  

Best For: Dogs that swim, outdoor adventures, and quick cleanups.

2. Turkish Cotton Towels

Pros:

• Naturally soft and gentle on skin/fur.
  
  

• Long-lasting and durable.
  
  

• Doubles as a beach or travel towel.
  
  

Cons:

• Slower to dry than microfiber.
  
  

Best For: Owners who want towels that work for both pets and people.

3. Bamboo Towels 

Pros:

• Eco-friendly and sustainable.
  
  

• Naturally odor- and bacteria-resistant.
  
  

• Soft, hypoallergenic fibers.
  
  

Cons:

• Higher price point.
  
  

Best For: Families with sensitive pets or eco-conscious buyers.

4. Cotton Terry Towels 

Pros:

• Plush and familiar texture.
  
  

• Comfortable for wrapping pets.
  
  

• Affordable and widely available.
  
  

Cons:

• Traps fur and odors.
  
  

• Slower to dry.
  
  

Best For: Indoor-only pets, light grooming use.

Comparison Table: Pet Towel Materials

Sizes & Styles for Pet Towels

Knowing what size and style to choose for your pet is crucial for making the right decision. Here are the different sizes and styles, and what they’re best for: 

• Small Towels (20" x 30") – Perfect for paws and small breeds.
  
  

• Medium Towels (30" x 50") – Great for cats or medium-sized dogs.
  
  

• Large Towels (35" x 70"+) – Best for big breeds like Labradors or Shepherds.
  
  

• Hooded Towels – Keep pets warm after baths.
  
  

• Towel Mitts/Gloves – Control wriggly pets while drying.
  
  

• Blanket-Style Towels – Protect car seats or couches.
  
  

Best Pet Towel Recommendations

To help make your decision as easy as possible, here are our best pet towel recommendations. 

1. Best Overall: Microfiber Dog Towel with Carry Bag
   Quick-dry, sand-resistant, great for cars.
   
   

2. Best for Large Dogs: Oversized Turkish Cotton Towel
   Doubles as a blanket, durable enough for daily use.
   
   

3. Best Eco-Friendly: Bamboo-Cotton Blend Pet Towel
   Soft, hypoallergenic, sustainable.
   
   

4. Best Value Pack: 6-Pack Microfiber Towels
   Ideal for groomers or multi-pet households.
   
   

5. Best for Travel: Compact Roll-Up Microfiber Towel
   Lightweight, fits in a backpack or glove box.
   
   
   

   

   
   
   

Care & Maintenance Tips

To ensure your pet towels maintain their quality for longer, follow the care and maintenance tips below:

• Wash before first use to remove residues
  
  

• Skip fabric softeners, as they reduce absorbency
  
  

• Use a vinegar rinse to keep towels odor-free
  
  

• Dry on low heat or line dry
  
  

• Rotate sets to reduce wear

FAQs About Pet Towels

Q: Can I use regular bath towels for pets?
A: You can, but pet towels are more absorbent, durable, and odor-resistant.

Q: How many towels does a dog owner need?
A: At least 2–3 per pet (one in use, one drying, one backup).

Q: Are microfiber towels safe for pets?
A: Yes, they’re widely used and effective. Just choose soft, high-quality ones.

Q: Do pet towels help with shedding?
A: Yes, microfiber especially traps loose fur during drying.

Q: Can I use the same towel for multiple pets?
A: Better to have separate towels for hygiene reasons.

Make Caring for Your Pets Easier with the Right Towels

Pets bring joy, but muddy paws, wet fur, and bath days can be messy. The right towels make all the difference, keeping your furry friends comfortable, your home cleaner, and your life easier.

Whether you choose quick-dry microfiber, long-lasting Turkish cotton, or bamboo, investing in towels for pets saves time and stress.

Explore Hencely’s Towel Collection for premium towels that work just as well for pets as they do for people.