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One of my favorite parts of the hotel experience is getting to slip into one of those fluffy white bathrobes that come with the room, ideally after a very hot shower. On the rare occasion I visit a spa, I enjoy all of its luxurious little touches, but it’s the robes that truly signal to me that this is a place of relaxation. The funny thing is that a bathrobe is one of the most accessible parts of these experiences, and something you actually can have at home. A bathrobe won’t change the water pressure in your bathroom or give you a massage, but it will upgrade your daily routine into something that’s just a bit more pleasurable.
You don’t need to save your robe strictly for post-bathing, although many of our best picks are functional, too. Made from absorbent materials, these bathrobes dry you off while also doubling as a cover-up (and a hug). Instead of adding another item to the laundry pile, they replace a standard towel and are often made of similar fabrics so you can stick to the texture you like best. Other picks are simply a practical, soft layer for mornings and evenings at home. While I appreciate the comfort of my favorite robe, it’s not just an indulgence; robes can be particularly useful if you share a bathroom with others, as they provide extra coverage in a secure format, and they provide meaningful warmth in colder weather.
Whether you prefer a thick plush style, a slimmer terry cloth robe or a vibrantly colored layer, I’m confident you’ll find the perfect fit for you on this list of the best bathrobes available.
What to consider when buying a bathrobe
Material
If you’re planning to use your bathrobe as a replacement towel, then it’s critical to look for products that are made of absorbent materials such as cotton. Turkish and Egyptian cotton are favorite materials of many shoppers and industry experts, including Heidi Luber, president and owner of Lubertex International. “I personally feel the best bathrobes are made from 100% cotton,” she says. “They're softer, smoother and more absorbent, which feels like a higher-quality experience.”
Others may prioritize the weave of the textile. For instance, terry cloth is especially absorbent while still being soft on the skin. For anyone who plans to use their robe as an extra layer during colder weather, I recommend looking for cozy materials like fleece or flannel, whereas those in warm climates might want to consider linen or silk. One thing to keep in mind is how easy the material is to wash: If you want to wear a robe regularly, then you don’t want to be restricted by dry cleaning schedules.
Design
There are several key areas where robe designs differ, but your choice will mostly come down to personal preference. Length and sleeve length vary across different products, so keep in mind whether you like to have your wrists and ankles exposed or covered. Your decision might depend on the time of year: Some robes feature a shawl collar while others go for a flat kimono style. Similarly, some robes have pockets while others don’t, so consider if this is important to you and choose accordingly.
While most robes are available in white and other neutral colors, some brands offer a wider color range or even focus on signature prints. Some nice-to-have design details include inside ties for a more secure fit, breast pockets for extra storage and extra belt loops to accommodate different frames. There is no right or wrong look for a robe, so go for what you like best and what will be most practical for you.
Price
As with most things, there is a wide range of price points when it comes to bathrobes. The main factors are the type of material, the method of craftsmanship and the brand name attached. It’s easy to find decent options under $100, but more luxurious products — especially ones that feature extra details like monogramming — can cost you twice as much. For something you’ll wear regularly, it may be worth it to you to spend a bit more. On the other hand, you may want to save on something you only wear inside your home.
Our top picks for the best bathrobes
Best soft bathrobe: Kashwéré Kapua Cotton Velour Robe
Best soft bathrobe
Kashwéré Kapua Cotton Velour Robe
If you’re pulling on a bathrobe right after showering, you want the material to feel soft and gentle on your skin. Kashwéré’s Kapua Cotton Velour Robe combines an absorbent cotton interior with a velour exterior that’s incredibly soft to the touch, so you can get dry while keeping cozy. The mix of fabrics allows you to get the best of both worlds, while still being easy to care for; Kashwéré CEO Merri Glecker tells me that “our fabric is specifically designed to be machine washable and dryable, so you can easily add it into your usual laundry routine.”
If you think this robe feels familiar, you may be right: The Kapua Cotton Velour Robe is a popular choice for five-star hotels and spas around the world, so there’s a chance you’ve already enjoyed its softness before. The style is also classic, with a shawl collar, front pockets and a mid-calf length, so it should fit most frames comfortably. The downside is that to bring this little piece of luxury into your own bathroom you’ll have to pay $180, which is more than most of the robes on this list, and you’ll also be restricted to a single color, classic white.
Specifications:
- Best for: Post-bathing, lounging, getting the hotel feel.
- Sizes: XS, S/M, L, XL, XXL.
- Material: 50% Turkish cotton, 50% velour.
- Design: Shawl collar, tie waist, front pockets, mid-calf length.
- Colors: One.
- Price on publish: $180.
What we like:
- The mix of cotton and velour allows for ultra-absorbency and incredible softness.
- Lets you bring hotel/spa luxury into your home; this robe is often found at five-star hotels.
- Designed to be easily machine washable and suitable for tumble drying.
- As useful post-bathing as it is for lounging around the house.
What we don’t like:
- Only one color is available.
- More expensive than most of the robes on this list.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
For the ultimate hotel robe experience in the comfort of your home, the classic style of the Kapua robe is a compelling choice.
Get it here: Kashwéré Kapua Cotton Velour Robe
Best affordable bathrobe: Brooklinen Super-Plush Robe
Best affordable bathrobe
Brooklinen Super-Plush Robe Women's size XS in Graphite
If you enjoy a plush robe that’s as useful post-shower as it is on a cold morning, then consider the Brooklinen Super-Plush Robe. For under $100, you can enjoy a classic hotel-style robe that’s made from 100% Turkish cotton for maximum absorbency. I particularly enjoy how warm and soft the fabric feels on bare skin, but this is a great layer over pajamas as well. The design is quite traditional, with a shawl collar and mid-calf length, but also features thoughtful details such as two front pockets and adjustable cuffed sleeves.
Although the size range is limited to XS through XL, Brooklinen has made its Super-Plush Robe available in 12 different colors. It’s also unisex in design and the tie waist allows for a custom fit, so it appeals to all heights and body types. This is the quintessential cozy bathrobe, which feels more expensive than its true price tag.
Specifications:
- Best for: Drying off, staying warm and cozy.
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL.
- Material: 100% Turkish cotton.
- Design: Shawl collar, tie waist, long adjustable-cuff sleeves, pockets, mid-calf length.
- Colors: 12.
- Price on publish: $99.
What we like:
- High-quality materials and thoughtful details, for under $100.
- Extra plush cotton weave that feels indulgent and absorbs water effectively.
- Unisex fit allows for lots of adjustments, from cuffs to the tie waist.
- A large range of colors to suit different tastes.
What we don’t like:
- Slightly limited size range.
- Might be too thick for warmer weather.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Brooklinen Super-Plush Robe is thick, cozy and absorbent, making it the ideal choice post-bathing or simply on colder mornings, for under $100.
Get it here: Brooklinen Super-Plush Robe
Best cotton bathrobe: Coyuchi Unisex Cloud Loom Organic Robe
Best cotton bathrobe
Coyuchi Unisex Cloud Loom Organic Sleepwear Robe Small/Medium Cherry Blossom
If you’re going to invest in a single robe, then you want it to be wearable year-round. The Coyuchi Unisex Cloud Loom Organic Robe is just the right amount of thickness to be comfortable and luxurious on the skin, yet breathable enough for all-weather wear. This midweight fabric is made from certified organic cotton that is untreated by pesticides or toxins, so you can also feel good about your sustainable purchase.
I enjoy how Coyuchi has been able to balance indulgence with lightness so you don’t feel swamped with fabric, even though this is a full-length design. The silhouette is generally loose and relaxed, which makes this a truly unisex product that is easily customized to the desired tightness around the waist. You will spend quite a lot on this robe, but in return, you get quality craftsmanship and details like two front pockets. Just be careful about proper maintenance of your robe; some customers have reported fraying if it’s not cleaned properly.
Specifications:
- Best for: Post-bathing, lounging.
- Sizes: XS/S, S/M, M/L, L/XL.
- Material: 100% Turkish cotton.
- Design: Shawl collar, ankle length, tie waist, front pockets.
- Colors: Six.
- Price on publish: $178.
What we like:
- The 100% Turkish cotton balances a cozy feel with breathability.
- Absorbent fibers ensure it’s effective at drying your skin, while being fast-drying itself.
- Suitable for year-round wear, thanks to its midweight.
- The looser silhouette allows for more flexible sizing and a custom fit.
- Sustainably produced, with certified-organic fibers and toxin-free production.
What we don’t like:
- One of the more expensive options on this list.
- Poor care can lead to fraying of fibers.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Coyuchi Unisex Cloud Loom Organic Robe turns sustainable design and organic cotton into a midweight yet luxurious robe that you can wear year-round.
Get it here: Coyuchi Unisex Cloud Loom Organic Robe
Best bathrobe for women: Cozy Earth Waffle Bath Robe
Best bathrobe for women
Waffle Bath Robe in Charcoal (Size: X-Large) - Cozy Earth
Waffle weaves are popular for their lighter weight, breathability, quick drying and absorbency — ideal qualities in a bathrobe. The Cozy Earth Waffle Bath Robe is one of the best examples of this, thanks to its blend of ethically sourced cotton and bamboo viscose that is woven into a unique, dual-sided texture. The outer waffle layer is ultra-absorbent and airy, while the inner, ribbed terry cloth feels smooth to the touch. The result is a slim yet substantial design that drapes nicely, dries effectively and keeps you at the ideal temperature.
I personally really enjoy the waffle aesthetic, as well as the mid-calf length, double pockets and classic shawl collar. While there is a limited color range of just three neutral shades, these will hit the mark for the majority of wearers. I also appreciate that Cozy Earth is committed to sustainable production practices; it makes the price tag feel like a worthy and appropriate investment.
Specifications:
- Best for: Post-bathing, lounging.
- Sizes: XS to XXL.
- Material: 60% cotton, 40% viscose from bamboo.
- Design: Shawl collar, mid-calf length, long sleeves, tie waist, front pockets.
- Colors: Three.
- Price on publish: $127.50.
What we like:
- Clever combination of outer waffle knit and inner terry cloth, for softness and absorbency.
- Cotton and bamboo materials are ethically sourced and high quality.
- The unisex design hits a flattering length on different builds.
- Midweight to support year-round wear, both post-shower and for casual wear.
What we don’t like:
- Only three colors available.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
If you like a waffle knit and prioritize ethically sourced materials, the Cozy Earth Waffle Bath Robe is a great product that is effective at drying and soft against the skin.
Get it here: Cozy Earth Waffle Bath Robe
Best kids bathrobe: The Company Store Kids Robe
Best kids bathrobe
The Company Store Kids Robe
Robes are not just for adults. In fact, their cozy layering makes them perfect for keeping children warm post-bath and pre-bedtime, as well as early in the morning. The Company Store Kids Robe takes the brand’s beloved adult robe and shrinks it down into an affordably priced, brightly-hued cover-up that’s perfect for little ones. There’s also a new hood detail, large pockets and more flexible sizing to better accommodate growing bodies.
This is one of the few products on this list that isn’t made from a natural material like cotton, but the 100% polyester weave is extra-plush and soft against delicate skin — and lower priced. With eight colors available, every kid can find their preferred shade and then the whole family can match, thanks to the Company Store’s full collection of robes. Sizing goes from two years to 16 years, so you’ll be able to keep your kid in their favorite robe throughout their childhood.
Specifications:
- Best for: Post-bath, keeping warm and cozy.
- Sizes: 2T-4T, 5/6, 7/8, 10/12, 14/16.
- Material: 100% polyester.
- Design: Hood, tie waist, knee-length, long sleeves, pockets.
- Colors: Eight.
- Price on publish: $41.
What we like:
- An affordable price and flexible sizing make this ideal for growing kids.
- Fun colors ensure every child can find their favorite.
- The hood detail is cute and cozy, while the plush texture is perfect for bedtime.
- There are corresponding adult sizes so the whole family can match.
What we don’t like:
- The material is polyester, rather than cotton, so not quite as breathable.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Kids will love this robe thanks to its wide color range, hood detail and extra-plush feel, while parents will love the affordable price and flexible sizing.
Get it here: The Company Store Kids Robe
Best personalized bathrobe: Hill House Home The Hotel Robe
Best personalized bathrobe
Hill House Home The Hotel Robe
Hill House Home is known for its signature feminine prints and its Hotel Robe is no exception. Available in two botanical designs, as well as two white options with different colored trims, the Hotel Robe is a great choice for anyone who finds plain white a little boring. And the fun doesn’t stop there: Hill House Home includes the option to personalize each robe for an extra $15, with six different fonts and 13 thread colors to choose from. This range is one of the largest I’ve seen, allowing you to truly make this robe your own.
The Hotel Robe itself is also simply a great garment, made from 100% zero-twist micro cotton that is deliciously plush and soft, yet still absorbent enough for post-bathing wear. The silhouette is quite loose so Hill House Home only offers three sizing options, but these extend up to 3XL, which is more inclusive than most brands I looked at. If you go for the personalization then this robe will cost you over $150, but this will get you something truly individual and tailored to you. Personally, that feels worth it.
Specifications:
- Best for: A little extra luxury, print lovers, post-bathing, cold mornings.
- Sizes: S/M, L/XL, 2XL/3XL.
- Material: 100% zero-twist micro cotton.
- Design: Shawl collar, mid-calf length, front pockets, tie waist, cuffed sleeves, piped trim
- Colors: Four.
- Price on publish: $148 + $15 for monogramming.
What we like:
- Two print options make this a great choice for people who want some color.
- Monogramming includes a choice of six fonts and 13 colors for maximum personalization.
- The micro cotton is extra soft and absorbent, suitable to wear right out of the shower.
- Sizing goes up to 3XL, which is more inclusive than most brands.
What we don’t like:
- One of the more expensive options on this list.
- No classic plain white option, so minimalists might not enjoy.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Lovers of print and personalization will find their perfect robe in the Hill House Home The Hotel Robe, which is deliciously plush and comes with a wide range of monogramming options.
Get it here: Hill House Home The Hotel Robe
Best lightweight bathrobe: Lunya The Robe
Many bathrobes are thick and plush, which is great for keeping warm and cozy but not so suitable for hot climates. They can even feel a bit bulky. Enter: Lunya’s The Robe. Made of a lightweight blend of Pima cotton, modal and elastane, this robe is a thin, luxuriously soft layer that drapes beautifully and adds a touch of glamor to even the most mundane household tasks. Lunya has included a snap neck closure so you have the option of being fully covered up, as well as an attached belt and interior tie for added security.
Despite the slim silhouette, there are still practical pockets and I appreciate the full length, which is flattering and a little more warming. Should the temperatures drop, this robe is suitable for layering, but it’s not really designed for cold winters or bundling up. Instead, this is the robe for elegant lounging and making your routines feel special. Unsurprisingly, this is one of the most expensive robes on our list, but for some people this will be worth the infusion of luxury.
Specifications:
- Best for: Lounging, warmer weather, a touch of glamor.
- Sizes: XS/S, M, L/XL.
- Material: 48% organic Pima cotton, 48% modal, 4% elastane.
- Design: Snap neck closure, attached belt, interior tie, pockets, full length, slim shape.
- Colors: Three.
- Price on publish: $250.
What we like:
- Thoughtful details like the attached belt and interior tie ensure a consistently secure fit.
- The unique snap neck closure allows you to wear this robe open or fully covered up.
- Lightweight cotton, modal and elastane blend makes this a great layering piece.
- Slimmer silhouette is comfortable yet glamorous for more elevated lounging.
What we don’t like:
- A pricier option.
- Sizing options are a little limited.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
If you prefer a breezier robe and want to upgrade your lounging experience, Lunya’s The Robe is the perfect touch of lightweight glamor that features thoughtful details and a unique snap neck closure.
Get it here: Lunya The Robe
Best Turkish cotton bathrobe: Quince Organic Turkish Cotton Robe
Best Turkish cotton bathrobe
Quince Organic Turkish Cotton Robe
Turkish cotton is a favored material for bathrobes as it’s extremely absorbent and lightweight, making it perfect for drying off after a bath or shower. The Quince Organic Turkish Cotton Robe really lets this material shine, thanks to its streamlined silhouette and lay-flat kimono collar. I’ve found this robe to be the perfect light layer to throw on while still damp, keeping me sufficiently warm without weighing me down or getting in the way of my morning routine. Even the color selection feels high quality, with a concise yet flattering collection of neutral shades to choose from.
The best part is you’ll pay under $50 for truly premium fibers, thanks to Quince’s factory-to-consumer business model. This lower price does perhaps show through in the less indulgent feel of the robe, but some wearers will enjoy this crisper texture. There is also a limited size range that only goes up to large, which is one of the least inclusive on this list, although some reviewers report that the robes are naturally oversized in fit.
Specifications:
- Best for: Post-bathing, affordable organic cotton.
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L.
- Material: 100% organic Turkish cotton.
- Design: Lay-flat kimono collar, mid-calf length, long sleeves, pockets, tie waist.
- Colors: Four.
- Price on publish: $49.90.
What we like:
- Incredibly affordable for a robe made from 100% organic cotton.
- Lightweight and ultra-absorbent, so it’s perfect for drying off post-bathing.
- Simple design is clean and streamlined, so no excess bulk or weight.
- Attractive range of neutral colors available that feel much more expensive.
What we don’t like:
- Only goes up to a size large.
- Not as plush and luxurious as some other options.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Get all the absorbent benefits of 100% organic cotton for under $50 with this Quince Organic Turkish Cotton Robe, which looks and feels more expensive than it is.
Get it here: Quince Organic Turkish Cotton Robe
Best fluffy bathrobe: L.L.Bean Women’s Winter Fleece Robe
Best fluffy bathrobe
Women's Winter Fleece Robe, Wrap-Front Arctic Blue Medium L.L.Bean
If you’re using your robe straight after bathing, then breathability and absorbency are key. But if you’re using the bathrobe as an extra layer while at home, then your priorities are likely coziness, softness and warmth. In that case, the L.L.Bean Women’s Winter Fleece Robe is the perfect choice. For just $90, you get a huge volume of soft fleece material that swaddles you and keeps you warm even in the coldest climates. This is the kind of robe that gives you comfort when you’re sick, that can replace a blanket and yet be wearable about the house.
It’s not the most stylish option, but the color range includes a couple of vibrant shades that are a refreshing change from all the standard whites and neutrals available. I also appreciate that L.L.Bean has included regular, petite and plus sizing options for each of its sizes (XS through XL) for greater fit accuracy. The polyester isn’t the most high-quality fabric, but makes this robe especially easy to care for so you can wear it for years and years, every time the temperature drops.
Specifications:
- Best for: Cold climates, ultimate coziness.
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, each in regular/petite/plus.
- Material: 100% polyester fleece.
- Design: Shawl collar, tie waist with attached belt, front pockets, full length.
- Colors: Four.
- Price on publish: $89.
What we like:
- Unbelievably warm and cozy, ideal for cold mornings or bundling up on the couch.
- Large range of sizing options that include petite, regular and plus fits.
- The attached belt is a nice detail, as are the big pockets and bright color range.
- Easy to clean and care for, thanks to the materials.
What we don’t like:
- Not suitable for post-bathing.
- Might be too warm for some.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
For the ultimate in cozy comfort, you can’t go wrong with the L.L.Bean Women’s Winter Fleece Robe with its bright colors, soft fleece texture and inclusive size range.
Get it here: L.L.Bean Women’s Winter Fleece Robe
Best bathrobe for men: Parachute Classic Turkish Cotton Robe
Best bathrobe for men
2X Classic Turkish Cotton Robe in Beige | Parachute
The Parachute Classic Turkish Cotton Robe is a particularly good choice for men thanks to its straight silhouette, wide color range and inclusive sizing. The 100% Turkish cotton is loomed into a GSM (grams per square meter) of 450, which is even higher than the Brooklinen Super Plush Robe, so you know you’re getting something truly cozy and warm. Despite this, the robe still feels absorbent and breathable, making it suitable for year-round use and post-bathing wear.
Parachute offers this robe in sizes up to 3X and it features an attached belt for improved fit. Pockets are large and the shawl collar adds coziness around the neck, so this robe is also a great choice for lounging in colder weather. I also like that despite the high-quality materials and construction, this robe is still quite competitively priced at $149.
Specifications:
- Best for: Post-bathing, lazy mornings.
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, 1X, 2X, 3X.
- Material: 100% Turkish cotton.
- Design: Shawl collar, tie waist, mid-calf length, front pockets.
- Colors: Six.
- Price on publish: $149.
What we like:
- Unisex design and selection of available colors make this universally wearable.
- High-quality Turkish cotton is especially plush and warming.
- Very wide size range that is particularly accommodating to larger frames.
- As appropriate for drying off post-shower as it is for lounging around the house.
What we don’t like:
- May be too cozy for moderate or hot climates.
- Requires good care; reviewers report some fraying after incorrect washing.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Parachute Classic Turkish Cotton Robe is truly unisex in design and color range, with a warming weave of 100% Turkish cotton and a very inclusive size range for larger bodies.
Get it here: Parachute Classic Turkish Cotton Robe
Best luxury bathrobe: Matouk Cairo Robe
Best luxury bathrobe
Matouk Cairo Robe
It can be the smallest details that make something feel especially expensive and luxurious. The weight and feel of this 100% Egyptian cotton robe show the quality of its materials, while the elegant piping details and drape of the robe reflect the best of Made in America craftsmanship; these robes are all manufactured in Massachusetts. The robe is absorbent enough to wear post-shower and comfortable enough to lounge in all morning and evening.
You can also customize your robe with a series of monogramming options, including different colors, fonts and letter placements, to truly make this robe your own. Of course, this luxury comes at a steep price: $275 to be exact. This simply won’t be in the budget for many shoppers, but the longevity of the materials may encourage others to make the investment.
Specifications:
- Best for: Post-bathing, elevated lounging.
- Sizes: XS, S, M/L, XL.
- Material: 100% Egyptian cotton.
- Design: Shawl collar, mid-calf length, tie waist, front pockets.
- Colors: Seven.
- Price on publish: $275 plus an optional custom monogramming fee.
What we like:
- Feels like the quintessential hotel robe thanks to Egyptian cotton.
- Fabric is luxuriously thick but balances absorbency and breathability.
- Several options to customize through monogramming for a small fee.
- Superior craftsmanship which should last you years; it’s possible to buy second-hand.
What we don’t like:
- An expensive option.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
If you’re willing to splurge, the Matouk Cairo Robe feels like the perfect hotel robe thanks to luxurious Egyptian cotton, elegant piping details and an elaborate monogramming menu.
Get it here: Matouk Cairo Robe
Best vibrant bathrobe: Dusen Dusen Bathrobe
Best vibrant bathrobe
Dusen Dusen Bathrobe
The white bathrobe might be the most classic form of this garment, but there’s no reason that adults can’t enjoy a bit of color in their wardrobe, and color is something that Dusen Dusen really understands. The brand’s signature bathrobe is available in eight different colorful combinations, mostly in a series of contrasting stripes (think lilac, moss green and buttercup yellow). These joyous shades may steal focus, but the underlying materials are also high quality and soft on the skin thanks to 95% cotton terry that has a GSM of 430.
The Dusen Dusen robe has impressively good absorbency so you can pull it on straight out of the shower, but if you’re a maximalist then you’ll be tempted to wear it whenever you’re at home. And let’s be realistic — this is a bathrobe for maximalists. Many people will not be drawn to this riot of color, but if you’re a lover of all things bright, then you’ll be hard-pressed to find something more perfect.
Specifications:
- Best for: Post-bathing, adding a pop of color to your mornings.
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, 1X, 2X.
- Material: 95% cotton terry, 5% polyamide.
- Design: Shawl color, tie waist, mid-calf length, front pockets.
- Colors: Eight.
- Price on publish: $138.
What we like:
- The vibrantly contrasting prints add whimsy and fun that you can’t find elsewhere.
- Very wide size range and a unisex silhouette for greater inclusivity.
- The terry cloth has a GSM of 430, making this particularly plush and absorbent.
- Silhouette is simple, breezy and clean to let the colors shine.
What we don’t like:
- The bright colorways won’t be to everyone’s taste.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Dusen Dusen Bathrobe is a breath of fresh air in a sea of neutrals, thanks to the vibrant stripes and prints that decorate the robe’s clean silhouette and indulgent plush cotton terry.
Get it here: Dusen Dusen Bathrobe
Best fast-drying bathrobe: Brooklinen Organic Ribbed Robe
Best fast-drying bathrobe
Brooklinen Organic Ribbed Robe Women's size M/L in Tea Leaf
A bathrobe can be worn for lounging — and I recommend it — but another purpose is to dry your skin after bathing. If that’s your goal, the Brooklinen Organic Ribbed Robe is an ideal choice. Made from 100% Turkish cotton, woven into a ribbed knit, this robe feels incredibly lightweight yet absorbent. This allows it to dry both you and itself in record time. The slightly cropped sleeves and shorter length (just below the knee for most wearers) also make it a good fit for warmer weather or anyone who runs a bit hot.
I like that Brooklinen has made this robe available in a few saturated colors, including “blue sea” and “tea leaf,” and the overall effect is something playful yet still chic. The cropped silhouette and thinner feel also make this robe a great choice if you like to bring yours with you when you travel; not only will it take up less space in your bag, but its quick-drying nature will help with practical packing.
Specifications:
- Best for: Post-bathing, warmer weather, travel.
- Sizes: XS/S, M/L, XL/XXL.
- Material: 100% Turkish cotton.
- Design: Lay-flat kimono collar, tie waist, pockets, knee length, slightly cropped sleeves.
- Colors: Four.
- Price on publish: $101.15.
What we like:
- Made from 100% Turkish cotton in a lightweight, ribbed weave that dries quickly.
- A breezier silhouette that hits just below the knee makes this warm weather-friendly.
- The four available colors are more vibrant and saturated than most other robes.
- Competitively priced for the quality of the materials.
What we don’t like:
- Might not be as suitable for colder weather due to the cropped fit.
- Sizing is limited to three options (although it does extend to XXL).
The AP Buyline takeaway:
If you live in warmer weather or want to bring your robe on the road, the Brooklinen Organic RIbbed Robe is lightweight and quick-drying thanks to a ribbed weave of 100% Turkish cotton.
Get it here: Brooklinen Organic Ribbed Robe
How we selected the best bathrobes
There is an incredible range of bathrobes out there and it can often be tricky to discern the key differences. I researched a variety of robes from a range of different brands, combining my findings with my own personal experiences and those of verified customers. I incorporated the views of industry experts and measured each product against a series of criteria, outlined below. To help me identify which robes are a cut above the rest, I also spoke to several industry professionals, including Dani Read, senior designer for Cosabella; Merri Glecker, CEO/owner of Kashwére; and Heidi Luber, president and owner of Lubertex International.
Important criteria for selecting bathrobes included:
Material quality
At the surface level, it’s helpful to understand whether a robe is made from cotton, polyester or another kind of fabric, as this will give you an idea about the softness and breathability of the garment. However, it is particularly useful to learn more about the fibers, weave and finish, in order to understand how the material might hold up to moisture and frequent wear. Read, Glecker and Luber all spoke about the importance of softness when looking at robe materials, due to them often being worn directly against bare skin. I assessed each robe’s materials to judge how suitable it was for drying off, getting warm and relaxing.
Fit and size options
Most bathrobes are fairly loose in shape, with a tie waist for an adjustable fit. The main differences lie in the size range available, details like interior ties and style choices like length. While many brands offer robes in a dual size, e.g. small/medium, I assessed the smallest and largest size available to see how accessible these products are. I also took into account whether they were unisex in design or styled for a particular gender. I paid attention to adjustable details, such as sleeve cuffs, and considered how the length might look on a variety of heights.
Added details and customization
With so many similarities between products, it’s the added details that can make all the difference. I looked at the color ranges available, whether the brand was offering something unique in style (like Lunya’s snap neck closure) and if there were options for personalization. Many people will want a classic white robe, so I didn’t dock points for focusing on the classics, but I appreciated when a brand widened its range or offered something different to the crowd.
How to care for a bathrobe to maintain its quality
Proper care and maintenance are critical if you want to extend the life of your bathrobe, as there’s a good chance you’ll be wearing it on a frequent basis. If you’ve invested in a more high-end option, then longevity and quality maintenance will be especially top of mind. Industry experts recommend looking for a bathrobe that won’t require dry cleaning. “Imagine wrapping yourself in a cocoon of softness and luxury as you effortlessly melt away the stresses of the day,” says Glecker. “Then imagine having to take it to the dry cleaners to get it laundered each week. Kind of spoils the overall experience.”
Fortunately, many brands have recognized the value of machine-washable fabrics. Still, there are right and wrong ways to wash your robe. “Always start by checking the care label on your bathrobe for specific instructions and recommendations,” recommends Read. “Typically, we suggest bathrobes to be cared for with cold water or delicate wash (with lingerie soap) and hang to dry.” Luber adds that “bathrobes should only be washed with other bathrobes or towels to maintain the softness and original structure of the fabric.”
If your robe is 100% cotton, Read warns against using a dryer. “This will help preserve the integrity of the fabric, since cotton is prone to shrinkage when exposed to high heat.” However, Luber believes that a gentle drying cycle can be beneficial. “A warm dryer usually brings the softness back after washing,” she says. If in doubt, check the label.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What type of bathrobe is most comfortable?
“The most comfortable type of bathrobe often depends on personal preference, but many people find that robes made from Pima cotton provide a cozy and luxurious feel,” says Read. “Pima cotton is known for its long fibers, which result in a softer, smoother and more durable fabric compared to regular cotton.” If your priority is softness against the skin then fleece, velour and silk may make a robe more comfortable to you. Cotton robes with a high GSM will create a more plush feel, which can also contribute to overall comfort levels.
Other features to look for are shawl collars if you like your neck to be kept warm, long lengths if you like to have your legs covered and attached belts or interior ties that can keep your robe secure and wrapped around you. As Read says, comfort is subjective.
What are the best bathrobes made from?
In general, 100% cotton products are often praised for their blend of softness and breathability, which results in a well-balanced robe that can be worn year-round; Luber says that this is her favorite robe material. Read agrees and specifies a particular kind of cotton: “Pima cotton has excellent absorbency and breathability, making it ideal for bathrobes as it provides comfort and helps regulate body temperature.”
For Glecker, the best robes are made from any fabrics that are “luxurious to the touch, but practical enough to use in your everyday life.” Ultimately, it will depend on your use case; the softest fabrics may not be the most effective at drying your skin. The “best” robe will therefore be made from the fabric that does what you need it to do.
What are expensive bathrobes made of?
The most expensive bathrobes on this list are made from cotton, modal and velour, but there are other expensive robes in the market that are made from additional materials like cashmere or silk. In general, higher-end bathrobes will likely be made from natural fibers, possibly sustainably sourced, which can command a higher price tag. These fibers are often high-performing when it comes to breathability and absorbency, as well as being less irritating against the skin. However, some expensive robes may also utilize human-made fibers that have been engineered for performance or for extra softness.
How long can I expect my bathrobe to last with regular use?
“The lifespan of a bathrobe with regular use can vary depending on factors like material, quality, frequency of washing and maintenance,” says Read. “Generally, a well-made bathrobe can last several years with regular use if cared for properly.”
Luber agrees that you can enjoy your robe for years, as long as you’re looking after it according to the specific care instructions. “They should last a long time when washed with only towels or other bathrobes,” she says. “We find that washing bathrobes with clothing can do some damage to the fabric (i.e., rips, tears, pulls, etc.).”
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