Pestemal Sizes Guide: Standard Turkish Towel Dimensions and Uses
The standard pestemal size is about 100 × 180 cm (39 × 71 in). Other common sizes are 90 × 170 cm, hand towels of about 50 × 90 cm, and oversized pestemals of about 150 × 200 cm or 200 × 240 cm. All sizes can be customised.
The standard pestemal size is about 100 × 180 cm (39 × 71 in), which works as a bath, beach and hammam towel. Other common sizes are 90 × 170 cm for a slightly smaller body towel, around 50 × 90 cm for hand and gym towels, and oversized pestemals of about 150 × 200 cm or 200 × 240 cm for beach, picnic and throw use. Sizes are usually measured without fringe, and all dimensions can be customised in production.
What is the standard pestemal size?
The classic pestemal is roughly 100 × 180 cm. It is long enough to wrap around the body in a hammam, large enough to lie on at the beach, and still light and compact to pack. If you are only choosing one size for a range, this is usually it.
Pestemal size chart
| Type | Typical size (cm) | Typical size (in) | Common uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hand / gym towel | approx. 45–50 × 90 | approx. 18–20 × 35 | Hand towel, gym, kitchen, guest towel |
| Small body towel | approx. 80 × 160 | approx. 31 × 63 | Kids, travel, spa wrap |
| Body / bath | approx. 90 × 170 | approx. 35 × 67 | Bath, hammam, spa |
| Standard pestemal | approx. 100 × 180 | approx. 39 × 71 | Bath, beach, hammam, travel |
| Oversized / XL | approx. 150 × 200 | approx. 59 × 79 | Beach for two, picnic, sofa throw |
| Extra large / bed size | approx. 200 × 240 | approx. 79 × 94 | Bed cover, throw, large beach blanket |
These are typical market sizes. Exact dimensions vary by model and weave, and can be customised for private label orders.
Are pestemal sizes measured with or without fringe?
Usually without. Hand-knotted fringe or tassels typically add a few centimetres at each short end. When you order or compare products, always confirm whether the stated length includes the fringe.
Which pestemal size is best for the beach?
The standard 100 × 180 cm size is enough for one adult. For lying down with room to spare, or for sharing, choose an oversized pestemal of about 150 × 200 cm. Lighter weights pack better in a beach bag; see pestemal GSM explained.
Which sizes do hotels and spas use?
Hotels and spas often build a set: a body-size pestemal (around 90 × 170 or 100 × 180 cm) for the hammam, sauna or pool, plus a hand or face towel in a matching design. Consistent sizing makes laundry, stacking and replacement easier. Pestemals can also be combined with bathrobes and slippers in the same pattern.
What size should I order for a private label collection?
- Start with the standard size (around 100 × 180 cm) as your core product.
- Add a hand towel to create sets and raise order value.
- Consider XL sizes (150 × 200 or 200 × 240 cm) for beach-focused or home and lifestyle brands.
- Check shipping: larger and heavier towels raise carton weight and freight costs, especially for e-commerce.
Do pestemals shrink after washing?
Cotton can shrink slightly on the first wash. Good manufacturers pre-wash or finish the fabric to limit this, so the stated size stays close after washing. For wholesale orders, agree a size tolerance (for example ±2–3%) and whether sizes are measured before or after washing.
Can pestemals be made in custom sizes?
Yes. Length can usually be changed easily; width depends on the loom. Custom sizes are common for hotels, spas and brands that want a signature product. At Pestemal.com, every size in this guide can be customised for private label orders.
Next: compare pestemal fabrics or order samples to check sizes in hand.
Cutting and sewing are done in-house at our facility in Denizli, Türkiye, so pestemal sizes can be adjusted for each order, from hand towels to extra large 200 × 240 cm pieces. We also keep a large ready stock in standard sizes, which can be customised with your own woven label or embroidered logo for faster delivery.
Frequently asked questions
What size is a Turkish towel?
The standard Turkish towel (pestemal) is about 100 × 180 cm (39 × 71 in). Hand towels are around 50 × 90 cm and oversized versions are about 150 × 200 cm or 200 × 240 cm.
Is a pestemal big enough to use as a beach towel?
Yes. A standard 100 × 180 cm pestemal fits one adult; choose an oversized 150 × 200 cm pestemal for two people.
Does the size include the fringe?
Usually not. Fringe typically adds a few centimetres at each end, so check how the size is stated.
Can a pestemal be used as a throw or bed cover?
Yes. Extra large pestemals of about 200 × 240 cm are popular as bed covers, sofa throws and picnic blankets.
Can I order pestemals in a custom size?
Yes. All sizes can be customised; length is easy to change, while width depends on the loom. Agree size and tolerance before production.