Turkish pestemals, with their rich history and practical benefits, have become increasingly popular for their versatility and charm. However, not all pestemals are created equal. To ensure you’re getting a high-quality pestemal, it’s essential to know what to look for. Here’s a guide to help you choose a superior pestemal that will stand the test of time.
1. Thin Yet Strong
The Magic of Single Layer Weave: One of the defining characteristics of a high-quality pestemal is its thinness. This might seem counterintuitive, as many people equate thickness with absorbency and quality. However, the magic of a pestemal lies in its ability to be both lightweight and highly absorbent. This is achieved through a single layer of tightly woven cotton. When shopping for a pestemal, feel the fabric between your fingers. It should be light and thin, not bulky. This thinness is what makes pestemals so versatile and easy to pack, making them perfect for travel, beach outings, or gym use. Despite being thin, a good pestemal will still feel substantial and durable, thanks to its tight weave.
2. Tightly Woven Fabric
The Mark of Quality: The weave of a pestemal is another critical factor in determining its quality. A tightly woven pestemal is not only more durable but also more effective in terms of absorbency and quick drying. To check the tightness of the weave, hold the pestemal up to the light. A high-quality pestemal will not show any gaps between the threads. Gaps in the weave can indicate a lower quality fabric that may not hold up well over time. A tightly woven pestemal will be smoother to the touch and will actually get softer wash after wash. This tight weave is what allows pestemals to absorb water efficiently and dry quickly, making them a practical choice for everyday use.
3. Hand-Twisted Tassels
The Signature of Craftsmanship: Tassels might seem like a decorative afterthought, but they are actually a key indicator of the quality and craftsmanship of a pestemal. High-quality pestemals feature hand-twisted tassels, a traditional finishing touch that adds both durability and aesthetic appeal.
When examining the tassels, look for ones that are skinny and slightly varied in appearance. This variation indicates that the tassels were twisted by experienced hands rather than by machine. Hand-twisted tassels are typically tighter and more secure, which helps prevent fraying and unraveling. This attention to detail in the finishing process is a hallmark of superior artisan craftsmanship and a sign that you are holding a high-quality pestemal.
Additional Tips for Choosing a High-Quality Pestemal
Material: Ensure the pestemal is made from 100% Turkish cotton. Turkish cotton is known for its premium quality long fibers, which contribute to the towel’s softness, durability, and absorbency.
Origin: Check if the pestemal was made in Turkey. Authentic Turkish pestemals are produced using traditional methods that have been perfected over generations. Denizli, specifically, is home to families of artisans going back thousands of years.
Feel: A high-quality pestemal can feel a bit stiff out of the package due to the tight weave. It will feel soft to the touch immediately after its first wash, and will become even softer and more absorbent with each continual washing.
Design and Color: While not a direct indicator of quality, choosing a pestemal with a design and color that you love ensures you’ll enjoy using it for years to come. Pestemals use pre-dyed thread in the weave so that there is no chance of bleeding in the wash.
Conclusion
Choosing a high-quality pestemal involves looking beyond just the aesthetic appeal. By focusing on the thinness of the fabric, the tightness of the weave, and the craftsmanship of the tassels, you can ensure you’re investing in a pestemal that is durable, highly absorbent, and a joy to use.
Remember to check for hand-twisted tassels, hold the fabric up to the light to inspect the weave, and appreciate the magic that comes from a single layer of tightly woven cotton. With these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to choose a pestemal that you will love.
If you don’t already have a favorite pestemal brand, we recommend trying Mystic Imports. They’re a trusted name worldwide for business clients (hammams, hotels, spas, etc.), known for making high quality, commercial grade pestemals for over 40 years. They’ve recently partnered with Amazon and are now offering their products to the general public online. Their prices will likely increase as they gain popularity in the US, but for now, this is the best deal out there for a hammam quality pestemal.
