Onsen Towel Review: is this finally the towel that doesn’t stink?

If you are like us, you hate towels that stink. But on the same hand, you can’t imagine spending $50 on a towel. Well, we bought the $50 Onsen Towel to try it out and give you our honest Onsen Towel Review. Is it worth it? Read on for our review.

Quick Note: We bought the Onsen Bath Towel in October 2018, before we even started writing reviews. We noticed that we hadn’t written an Onsen Bath Towel review and decided we needed to fix that ASAP. We were not provided this towel for free to review, we actually bought this towel in hopes that it would get rid of the musty smell.

Onsen Towel Review: What is it?

Well, besides a $50 cotton bath towel, here’s what Onsen says about their towel (from their founder, Shane):

“I used to hate getting out of the shower and using a towel I didn’t like. I founded Onsen to make a towel that was stronger, softer, and dried faster than any other towel I’ve ever used. And now I can’t wait to reach for it every day after a shower (or bath). My terry towels weren’t doing their job anymore. When I reached for them after a shower they were either still wet, smelled musty, or a terrible combination of the two. Inspired by the lighter, thinner, quick-drying towels popular in Japan, I asked myself what the sole job of a towel was, and how I could improve it.”

Shane (Onsen Towel Founder)

In short, they are towels that are supposed to do a better job of drying themselves than other towels. They are supposed to not get as musty as easily.

History and Inspiration Behind Japanese Waffle Weave Towels

The waffle weave design has been a staple in Japanese bath culture for decades. It is renowned for its blend of functionality and minimalism.

Lightweight and quick-drying, these towels mirror traditional Japanese values of simplicity and efficiency. Their popularity grew as more people sought effective, space-saving solutions. This was inspired by the practical design seen in Japanese bathing habits.

The origin of waffle weave towels in Japan can be traced back to their bathhouses. Here, both efficiency and comfort are key.

Japanese bath towels, known as futa, emphasize high absorbency without sacrificing space. The lightweight design follows traditions, emphasizing fast drying while conserving fabric. The minimalistic design in Japanese homes greatly influences their bath towels’ function and style. Minimalism isn’t just an aesthetic choice but reflects a cultural value on efficiency, space, and functionality.

Waffle weave towels align perfectly with this ethos, offering a solution that blends function with style, showcasing a balance of utility and elegance. Emphasizing simplicity and efficiency, these designs represent an appreciation for quality over quantity, making each item in the space serve a distinct purpose.

The waffle weave’s practical elegance not only increases functionality but also complements the aesthetic of compact, curated spaces in Japanese homes, which often don’t favor excess.

Over time, the integration of Western influences saw the evolution of these towels. This allowed them to adapt to modern aesthetics and global tastes.

Japanese bath culture highlights relaxation and rejuvenation. Public bathhouses, or sento, and hot springs, known as onsen, emphasize simple elegance. This minimalism is echoed in the waffle weave towel, designed to dry quickly and fit well into small spaces, embodying the Japanese ethos of efficiency.

In Japan, bathing is both a ritual and an art form, rooted in centuries of tradition. The focus is not just on cleansing the body but also on mental and spiritual relaxation. Towels designed with the waffle weave pattern, inspired by this culture, encourage a soothing bathing experience. They complement the minimalist interiors of Japanese homes, where less is truly more, and each item serves a purpose beyond its surface value.

What we were looking for in our Onsen Towel Review

Even though we live in Colorado, where it is very dry, we would occasionally get the musty towel smell. Mr. We Tried It is super sensitive to smells (he can smell what chapstick someone is putting on 10 feet away) and he HATES the musty smell.

Even worse, if you just get out of the shower and you clean yourself with a musty towel, you smell musty and dirty. If you don’t have time to take another shower, then you go around all day smelling like that. That’s terrible!

In short: we were looking for a towel that would finally eliminate the musty smell if it wasn’t hung just right or didn’t fully dry from one use to another.

Onsen Towel Review: What makes the Onsen Towel Different

Before we embarked on this journey to give you the Onsen Towel Review, we had no idea there was anything different. We had no idea there were different ways to make a towel. We just thought you bought the softest ones you could touch at Target. But that’s not the case.

Onsen Towel says that their unique cotton waffle weave on the bath towel makes it super-lightweight but still absorbs water.

It’s just not AS soft as something like a terry towel.

A terry towel is softer (it’s also made from cotton), but it also takes a TON of time to dry. That’s what leads a terry towel to be mustier.

SUPIMA cotton, celebrated for its superior quality, originated in the early 20th century in the U.S. Only about 1% of the world’s cotton is SUPIMA, making it particularly sought after. Its extra-long fibers contribute to the towel’s durability and softness. This makes it ideal for luxury items like the Onsen Towel.

Originally cultivated in the American Southwest, SUPIMA cotton has become synonymous with high-end textiles. This cotton is prized for its sustainability practices and minimal environmental footprint. Farmers adhere to strict guidelines to ensure water conservation and pesticide reduction. This allows eco-conscious consumers to enjoy luxury without compromise. The choice of SUPIMA cotton in Onsen towels reflects a commitment to quality and environmental responsibility.

Farmers cultivating SUPIMA cotton follow sustainable practices to reduce environmental impact. These include precision agriculture techniques that use water more efficiently, minimizing waste. Together with reduced pesticide reliance, these methods support a healthier ecosystem and produce high-quality cotton.

The cultivation of SUPIMA cotton is closely linked to environmental care. Innovative methods like crop rotation and cover cropping keep soil nutrients intact, fostering sustainable agriculture. These strategies encourage natural biodiversity and decrease pesticide use, protecting both ecosystem integrity and product excellence.

Origin and Features of SUPIMA Cotton

SUPIMA cotton has a rich heritage, traceable back to the early 1900s. Grown in the U.S., its name is an abbreviation of “Superior Pima.” Recognized for having extra-long fibers, SUPIMA cotton is about 35% longer and 45% stronger than regular cotton.

This results in smoother and more durable textiles. It’s not just about strength; SUPIMA’s ability to absorb dyes better ensures vivid colors. Sustainability is a key feature too. SUPIMA farms adhere to environmentally responsible practices by monitoring water usage and minimizing chemical inputs. This makes it an eco-friendly choice for conscious consumers looking for high-quality textiles.

SUPIMA cotton’s heritage is significant, tracing back over a century in American agriculture. Its cultivation began in the southwestern U.S., where growing conditions are ideal due to the warm climate and long growing season.

The fibers harvested are renowned for their strength, enabling the production of high-quality textiles that are both soft and resilient. Furthermore, products made from SUPIMA cotton maintain their integrity over numerous washes, a clear sign of their enduring quality. Consumers around the world now recognize SUPIMA as a mark of excellence, synonymous with luxury and durability in cotton goods.

Comparison with Other Towel Materials

While waffle weave towels dry rapidly, terry towels are popular for their plushness and softness. However, terry cloth’s dense loops often trap moisture, leading to musty odors.

Microfiber towels, on the other hand, excel in absorbency and quick-drying but tend to lack the luxurious feel of cotton options. Each has its pros and cons. For those prioritizing fast drying and odor resistance, waffle weave stands out.

Comparison with Other Towel Materials

Linen towels, like waffle weave towels, are praised for quick-drying and durability. They offer a different texture compared to cotton, often rougher yet highly absorbent. Linen’s natural fibers soften over time with washing, providing a fresher feel.

While not as plush as some prefer, both linen and waffle weave towels excel in air circulation and moisture management, resulting in a fresh-smelling experience. Linen towels are durable, long-lasting, and known for hypoallergenic properties. Perfect for sensitive skin, linen’s fibers are breathable, preventing mold growth.

This feature mirrors the benefits of waffle weave towels, promoting quick drying and odor resistance. Both options cater to consumers seeking innovative fabrics for a healthier home.

Pros and Cons of Waffle Weave Towels

Waffle weave towels excel in quick drying and efficient moisture management. This feature helps them avoid lingering dampness that leads to odor. However, they might not feel as plush as terry towels, which some users find comforting. Their texture is a trade-off for their superior quick-dry ability, promoting a cleaner feel after each use.

While waffle weave towels are less plush, they offer a rejuvenating feel that enhances circulation and skin stimulation. Their design also resists the wear and tear traditional towels might face, such as fraying edges and loss of absorbency over time. This durability often results in longer-lasting products, reducing the need for frequent replacements and contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.

Detailed Benefits of Waffle Weave Design

The waffle weave design of Onsen towels is more than just a functional choice. Its unique structure increases the surface area, allowing for rapid evaporation and a swift drying process. This means that even in humid conditions, the towel doesn’t harbor moisture for long, reducing the chance of a musty smell.

Moreover, the design enhances fabric strength, offering resistance against wear and tear. Unlike tighter weaves, waffle weave fabrics maintain breathability while still absorbing water efficiently.

This balance creates a fabric both lightweight and durable, ideal for everyday use and travel. The waffle weave pattern is also key in moisture management. It enables efficient air circulation within the fabric, promoting quick water evaporation.

This capacity not only keeps towels fresh but also makes them ideal for continuous use in environments like gyms or spas. The structure’s compact drying efficiency is complemented by its minimalistic elegance, introducing a touch of simplicity and sophistication to any bathroom decor.

The lightweight nature of this weave also aids in compact storage, making waffle weave towels a preferred choice for travelers and those with limited space.

Is it really absorbant?

It is SUPER absorbent. I know it’s hard to think this waffle weave design could work, but it does.

I would say that it’s even more absorbent than a terry towel.

What is the Onsen Bath Towel made from?

This is really, super easy: 100% SUPIMA COTTON

Onsen bath towels are made entirely from extra-long-staple Supima cotton, which is among the softest and finest in the world.

SUPIMA cotton sets itself apart with extra-long fibers, resulting in stronger and smoother threads. This type of cotton is grown in the United States and is known for its durability and resistance to pilling.

It offers a softer feel compared to standard cotton, enhancing the towel experience while maintaining long-lasting quality.

Onsen Towel Review: Lightweight but works?

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Customers often praise Onsen Towels for their consistent performance over time. Reviews highlight the rapid drying time and absence of unpleasant odors.

Many appreciate the lightweight feel, though some miss the plushness of traditional terry towels. Regardless, the general opinion emphasizes the benefits of investing in a towel that remains fresh and functional.

Have any questions or comments about our Onsen Towel Review? Let us know in the comments below!

Yes, the Onsen Towel is very lightweight. Even on their website, Onsen says that you can see through the “airy weave if you hold it up to the light.” It’s one of the things that reviewers on Amazon dig on the Onsen Towel for.

We will say this: the Onsen towel does get you dry, but the towel doesn’t feel the same as other towels. It’s lightweight but it also seems to hold on to the water rapidly when you are drying yourself. So, when you are done drying yourself, the towel feels wetter than a normal towel that is typically plusher.

Lightweight towels shine especially for travelers or those with limited storage. They pack down small and dry out rapidly. Quick drying helps prevent the musty smell.

The compactness makes them ideal for sports or travel, where every inch of space counts. Yet, durability remains key.

Why does this work?

Onsen says “thanks to its open weave, it dries out quickly after you use it, so you’ll never reach for a wet, musty towel after a shower ever again.”

The Onsen Towel is also about 30% lighter and 50% less bulky versus the average terry towel.

The $50 Question: Does the towel smell musty?

No!

We’ve been using the Onsen towel for over 2 years now — the same two towels (one for Mr. We Tried It, the other for Mrs. We Tried It) in our bathroom, and they do not smell musty. We use them at least once a day, sometimes twice a day during the summer.

The Onsen Towel has never had that musty smell that we’d frequently get with plusher, less expensive towels. We wash the towels about 1x/week, and we pretty much only use these towels. It’s usually the first item in — and out — of our laundry.

This waffle towel is quick drying and doesn’t smell musty – even after several showers.

What else should I know about the Onsen Towel?

As we mentioned earlier, it is super lightweight. It almost looks too lightweight to even work. But it does. It also doesn’t feel as soft as a “typical” towel due to its unique construction.

To be honest, it just takes a little getting used to. If your number one priority is to make sure your towels are NOT musty — then check out the Onsen Towel.

Investing in quality towels like Onsen may seem costly initially, but offers long-term savings. Their durability reduces frequent replacement needs, quickly adding up with cheaper, less durable options. Onsen towels withstand regular washing without losing odor resistance, making them a practical choice for those seeking value over time.

The economic benefits of Onsen towels are evident in longevity and performance. Their resistance to odors and integrity over time means fewer purchases, translating into savings. Investing in durable towels reduces waste and frequent replacement needs, making Onsen a smart financial choice.

Global Availability and Distribution

Onsen Towels are gaining popularity across several international markets. While primarily available online, they are distributed through a variety of global e-commerce platforms, making them accessible to customers worldwide.

In regions like North America and Europe, demand has grown significantly. This growth is attributed to rising consumer interest in sustainable and innovative towel solutions. Additionally, global shipping options ensure that those appreciating a durable and quick-drying towel can easily obtain them, regardless of their location.

Whether you are in bustling urban areas or remote locations, Onsen Towels can be within your reach with a few clicks.

What about returns?

Onsen even has a 60-day trial if you are on the fence about trying the towels.

We chose the white towels because they are slightly easier to clean and you don’t have to worry about getting anything that would dis-color the towels.

Other colors available for the Onsen Bath Towel

The Onsen Bath Towel comes in a variety of colors: from simple white to cinder grey to denim and even “Ochre” (which is kinda almost a chartreuse color).

These are available as an individual bath towel and a towel set.

Either-way these make a great towel, worthing of the great 5 star rating and reviews.

Other ways to keep your towels from smelling musty

The best way to keep your towel, regardless of it is a Onsen Bath Towel or a cheap target towel is to make sure they dry in-between uses. Not just “kinda dry” — but 100% dry.

The best way to do this is by hanging them up with a towel rod — like this:

Not like this:

By letting the towel dry flat, it allows it to dry more uniformly. Our bathroom doesn’t have room for a full towel rack, so its part of the reason that we always had musty smells.

How to care for the Onsen Towels

Onsen says that you should wash the Onsen Towels on a gentle cycle every 3-4 days. Then they say to shake the towel gently and tumble dry. Don’t use a fabric softener. We never use fabric softeners, however, we typically use The Laundress detergent (see our The Laundress Review).

While we don’t purposely use bleach on the towels, we have used bleach a couple of times on the Onsen towels. That’s because they were simply mixed in with other whites that needed to be cleaned.

Care Instructions for Maximizing Towel Longevity

Keeping your Onsen towels in top shape involves a few simple steps. Wash them on a gentle cycle using mild detergent, steering clear of bleach, which can weaken fibers over time.

It’s also important to avoid using fabric softeners, as they coat the fibers, reducing absorbency. For drying, tumble dry on low heat and shake out the towel to maintain its loft. By doing so, you help preserve the towel’s structure and functionality.

Washing towels in cold water preserves their color and prevents shrinkage. Hanging them in well-ventilated spaces ensures more even drying and reduces musty odors. Regular maintenance and proper storage can significantly extend a towel’s life and keep them fresh and feeling new.

To extend the life of your towels, avoid overcrowding the washer to ensure even cleaning. Light detergents maintain fiber softness, while overuse of harsher chemicals can cause wear. Air drying towels, when possible, prolongs their lifespan and reduces energy use.

These practices help keep your towels in great condition, ensuring they remain as fresh and functional as the first day.

Have no fear: dryer balls are here

Onsen also makes dryer balls to help fluff up the cotton towels.

We’ve had no problems with the Onsen Towels holding up — even after using them every day for the past 3+ years! That’s pretty impressive!

Environmental Impact of Towel Production

Towel production can impact our environment, from the water consumption during cotton growing to the energy used in manufacturing. Onsen emphasizes using SUPIMA cotton, which is grown with sustainable farming practices.

This includes monitoring water usage and reducing chemical fertilizers, aiming to lessen their ecological footprint while producing high-quality products.

The production process of towels like Onsen’s involves selecting high-quality SUPIMA cotton. This cotton is responsibly sourced and grown with eco-friendly practices.

This choice not only ensures superior product durability but also contributes to a smaller environmental footprint. By reducing the need for frequent replacements, these towels minimize waste. This practice aligns with sustainable consumption practices.

As consumers become more eco-conscious, such considerations gain importance.

Onsen towels’ use of SUPIMA cotton aligns with certifications like OEKO-TEX Standard 100. This reassures customers the towels meet high safety and sustainability standards. While SUPIMA doesn’t carry a standalone certification, its reputation and adherence to stringent quality checks highlight Onsen’s commitment to eco-friendly practices.

Onsen’s dedication to sustainable manufacturing extends beyond SUPIMA cotton. Their processes are frequently audited to align with global environmental standards, ensuring practices that support sustainable development. Users can feel confident that each towel not only maintains personal hygiene but also upholds environmental stewardship. This sets a benchmark for responsible production.

What else does Onsen Make?

Besides different sizes of the Onsen Bath Towel (they also make what is called a “Bath Sheet” – a larger bath towel), bath towel sets, a face towel, a hand towel, Onsen also make bathrobes with the same cottonwaffle weave.

This waffle weave may not be as soft as terry towels, but it is still soft cotton that will dry you off quickly! The waffle design really does work!

They haven’t gone crazy and gone into dish towels or anything like that, don’t worry. At the same time, we wish they made ever more with this great fabric!

We even ordered a second set to make sure we were not without a fresh second set!

Onsen Towel Review: The Final Verdict

It’s it funny how we complain about spending $50 on something like a towel that we use every single day. But just 1 day, it can smell musty and we go berserk? Here’s the simple truth about Onsen Towels: if you hate the musty smell your towel sometimes has, splurge and get the Onsen Towel. You won’t regret it.

If you don’t mind the musty smell every now and again, then don’t buy the Onsen Towel. It’s that easy.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Customers often praise Onsen Towels for their consistent performance over time. Reviews highlight the rapid drying time and absence of unpleasant odors.

Many appreciate the lightweight feel, though some miss the plushness of traditional terry towels. Regardless, the general opinion emphasizes the benefits of investing in a towel that remains fresh and functional.

Have any questions or comments about our Onsen Towel Review? Let us know in the comments below!