Finding the Right Bathrobe: Comparing Materials and Styles

Types of Bathrobe

A bathrobe is not just a bathrobe – different cultures also have different styles, which are not only cut differently, but were sometimes also worn for a different (original) purpose.

These bathrobe styles are well known:

Bathrobe: Soft and cosy, usually made of terry towelling
Dressing gown: Lightweight material, often worn around the house
Kimono: originally from Japan, generally loose-fitting with wide sleeves, often lightweight and well suited to travel
Sarong: essentially a long wrap skirt, sleeveless
Kilt: the “men’s version” of the sarong: like a towel wrapped around the waist, but securely held in place
Poncho: pulled on over the head, especially popular with children

Choosing the Right Length

Length also plays a role when choosing a bathrobe: some prefer one that is almost floor-length, while for others it is enough if it covers the knees. Anyone considering buying a bathrobe should therefore always look at the product photos and check the measurements given. For shorter people, some bathrobes may reach all the way to the floor, so a smaller size or a different style may need to be chosen. The sleeve length information can also help here.

When deciding on the right length, it is also worth considering what purpose the bathrobe needs to serve. If, for example, it is to be worn between sauna sessions in autumn or winter, a longer bathrobe is advisable. In addition, zips and belts can affect how long bathrobes appear overall.

Pay Attention to Material and Quality

As with towels, bathrobes are available in a range of different materials. Anyone looking for a bathrobe should definitely focus on quality, because good material is both absorbent and durable.

For cosy bathrobes, terry towelling is the right choice, ideally with a high cotton content. This creates a skin-friendly feel and absorbs a great deal of moisture. Cotton bathrobes such as the MÖVE SUPERWUSCHEL remain especially soft for a long time and can – importantly for bathrobes and towels – be washed at 60°C.

Certification to Oeko-Tex Standard 100 is also important, as this ensures that the bathrobe is free from harmful substances.

There are also bathrobes that do not need to be quite so absorbent. In this case, a lightweight material such as waffle piqué is suitable, as it dries quickly and also has an attractive texture. If, on the other hand, the robe is intended more for an elegant appearance, a dressing gown made of satin or other smooth materials is a good choice. A fleece bathrobe, by contrast, is light, fluffy and quick-drying – but it is often made from synthetic material (polyester) and is therefore not especially absorbent.

With or Without a Hood?

A hood on a bathrobe helps prevent heat from escaping from the head. Especially for children, a hood can also offer protection from sunburn in summer, so a hooded style should always be chosen in this case.

Not everyone likes bathrobes with a hood, however, which is why there are also many styles without one – for example, with a shawl collar instead, such as those from the MÖVE EDEN collection. These are well suited to warmer days or travel, as a bathrobe without a hood also takes up less space in a suitcase.

Having a Bathrobe Personalised

Like other terry products, bathrobes can also be personalised with embroidery. Having your own name or initials embroidered onto the bathrobe makes it even more personal and is also useful for identifying your own robe again – the latter is particularly helpful at the spa or in the sauna.

With an embroidery machine or a sewing machine with an embroidery function, bathrobes can easily be personalised at home. However, it is best to go straight to a professional, especially when it comes to larger lettering or a company logo. The bathrobe manufacturer can often help with this as well.