Quick answer

The best hair towel for curly hair is a microfiber towel or an old cotton T-shirt. Regular bath towels cause friction that leads to frizz and breakage. For most curl types, a microfiber towel for curls offers the right balance of absorbency and gentleness.

Why your towel matters for curly hair

Curly hair is more fragile than straight hair because the natural oils have a harder time traveling down the hair shaft. When you rub a terry-cloth towel on wet curls, the rough loops snag the cuticle, causing frizz and potential breakage. A curly hair drying towel made from microfiber or a smooth cotton alternative reduces this friction.

The goal when drying curly hair is to remove excess water without disrupting the curl pattern. Plopping—wrapping hair in a towel—is a popular method that works best with a flat, absorbent fabric. Microfiber towels are lightweight and dry quickly, making them easy to reuse on wash day.

What to look for in a curly hair drying towel

Fabric type: Microfiber is the most recommended because its ultra-fine fibers wick moisture away without roughing up the cuticle. Cotton T-shirts are a budget-friendly alternative but lack the same absorbency. Avoid towels with loops or thick pile.

Size and shape: A rectangular towel around 12 x 24 inches works well for plopping. Some brands offer microfiber towels with a button or loop to secure the turban, which is convenient if you want to keep the towel in place while you get dressed.

Weight: A lightweight towel is easier to handle when your hair is wet and heavy. Microfiber is significantly lighter than cotton, reducing strain on your neck and scalp.

How to dry curly hair without frizz

Start by gently squeezing out excess water with your hands. Then, lean forward and place the microfiber towel for curls over your hair, scrunching upward from the ends toward the roots. Avoid rubbing or twisting.

For plopping, lay the towel flat on a surface, flip your hair onto it, and gather the ends to form a wrap. Leave it on for 10–20 minutes while you do your skincare or get dressed. Remove carefully to avoid disturbing the curl clumps.

If you use a leave-in conditioner or styling cream, apply it before plopping so the product absorbs while the towel removes moisture. This helps lock in hydration and definition.

Decision rules for choosing a curly hair drying towel

  • Fabric type: Choose microfiber for best absorbency and gentleness. Cotton T-shirts work but absorb less water, so you may need to blot more. Avoid terry cloth. Microfiber is the gold standard for curly hair.
  • Size and shape: A rectangular towel (approx. 12x24 inches) is versatile for plopping and turban wrapping. Some have a button or loop to secure the wrap. A medium rectangle with a securing feature is most practical.
  • Weight and care: Microfiber is lightweight and dries fast. Wash it separately with mild detergent to maintain absorbency. Avoid fabric softener. Lightweight and easy to care for—just skip the softener.

Products that complement your drying routine

  • 3-Step Styling Kit for Curls: The 3-Step Styling Kit for Curls has everything you need to define and maintain your curls. Each carefully curated product is specially formulated to keep curly hair hydrated and nourished while providing lasting hold and definition. After drying with a microfiber towel, applying products from this kit helps set your curls. The kit includes styling products that work with the towel's gentle drying to reduce frizz and enhance definition.
  • Travel Size Strong Hold Gel: Achieve long-lasting weightless hold with our Strong Hold Gel. Designed to control frizz, enhance definition, add shine & provide flake-free hold. Made with nourishing ingredients for healthier hair including Lactic Acid (AHA), Vegan Collagen Peptide & Sugar Cane Extract. After plopping with a microfiber towel, scrunch in this gel for hold without crunch. Its flake-free formula is ideal for fine to medium curls that need definition without weight.

Which towel fits your routine?

Best for

  • Curly hair types 2C–4C that need gentle drying without frizz
  • Anyone who wants a reusable, quick-drying option for wash day

Not ideal for

  • Those who prefer a traditional towel texture or have very short hair that doesn't need plopping