Most bath towels use one of two weave types:
WEAVE TYPE
WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE
BEST FOR
Terry cloth
Loopy, plush texture on both sides
Maximum absorbency; classic bath towels
Huck (or honeycomb)
Flat, textured weave with a geometric pattern
Glass towels, hand towels, lighter weight
The decorative bands you see are typically woven using a different technique than the main body of the towel—often a smoother, tighter weave called a “dobby border” or “jacquard band.”
This contrast creates:
This contrast creates:
Visual interest
Structural reinforcement at the edges
A designated “top” and “bottom” for proper hanging
The Color Code System: What Those Colored Lines Actually Mean
Now, here’s where it gets interesting. In hotels—especially in Europe and at upscale properties worldwide—those colored bands aren’t random. They’re part of a size-coding system that helps housekeeping, laundry staff, and guests quickly identify towel types.
Standard Hotel Towel Color Codes
Band Color
Towel Type
Typical Size
Use
White (no band)
Bath sheet / Premium bath towel
35×60 in or larger
Luxury bathing; maximum coverage
White with colored band
Standard bath towel
27×52 in
Everyday bathing
Blue band
Hand towel
16×30 in
Drying hands at sink
Green band
Face towel / Washcloth
12×12 in to 13×13 in
Facial cleansing
Yellow band
Guest towel / Finger towel
11×18 in
Powder room; decorative use
Red band
Sport towel / Gym towel
Varies
Fitness facilities; poolside
Gray or Black band
Kitchen / Utility towel
Varies
Service areas; not for guest use
