All the Ways to Use a Peshtemal (That Might Surprise You)
Over the past year, we’ve had the joy of sharing our Peshtemal Collection towels with customers, friends, and family—at markets, pop-ups, and right here on our online store. Along the way, we’ve been asked lots of great questions:
“What exactly is a peshtemal?”
“Is it really absorbent?”
“Isn’t it too thin to be a towel?”
“They’re so beautiful—can I use them as home decor?”
We love these questions. They show curiosity and care, and they’re exactly why we wanted to write this article—to walk you through all the wonderful ways a peshtemal can be used.
So, what is a peshtemal?
Originally used in Turkish bathhouses (hammams) to provide comfort and modesty, the peshtemal has a long and beautiful history. Today, it's become a modern essential—lightweight, stylish, and wonderfully functional.
At Peshtemal Collection, all our towels are woven from 100% organic Turkish cotton on ethically operated looms in Türkiye. That means no synthetics, no shortcuts—just natural cotton fibers that get softer and more absorbent with each wash. Yes, even though they’re thinner than traditional towels, they dry you off better (and faster).
So, how can you use them?
Home Decor
The larger peshtemals (around 79” x 94”) are perfect as a soft throw on your couch or bed. They also work beautifully as lightweight blankets or even wall hangings.
Soft, breathable, and easy to pack, peshtemals are the perfect beach companion. They dry quickly, shake off sand easily, and fold up small in your bag.
Yoga Towel
Their grippy texture and portability make peshtemals ideal for yoga. Just roll it up, toss it in your bag, and go.
Creative Ideas
Some of our customers have even turned them into bags or scarves by tying the ends. The possibilities are endless—and we’d love to see yours.
The best part? Peshtemals only get better with time. The more you wash them, the softer and more absorbent they become. They’re built to last, and designed to be loved.
Do you use yours in a unique way? Leave us a note—we may just feature your idea in our next post.