travel face wash cloth

The Best Washcloths For Faces, Tested & Reviewed

You’ll get a double dose of cleansing and exfoliation.

Shopping for a washcloth to rinse off makeup, sweat, and oil sounds simple enough, but not even the plushest of towels is necessarily suitable for use on your face. In fact, the best washcloths for your face are made from durable yet oh-so-soft fibers that are intentionally woven to erase all traces of makeup and trap dirt and oil without causing irritation. “The texture of the cloth can help determine how abrasive and potentially exfoliating the washcloth is on the skin,” dermatologist and dermatopathologist Brendan Camp , M.D., tells Bustle of your different options. In general, you’ll want to stick with cloths made from cotton (like muslin or flannel), microfiber, or bamboo fibers. “It is important to avoid anything that is too abrasive on the skin and to avoid vigorously rubbing, as this can disrupt the skin barrier,” says dermatologist Marisa Garshick , M.D., who Bustle also consulted for this article.

The Experts

Dr. Brendan Camp, M.D. , is a double board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist practicing with MDCS Dermatology in New York, where he specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology. He has previously served as an assistant professor of dermatology at George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences.

Dr. Marisa Garshick, M.D. , is a board-certified dermatologist seeing patients in Manhattan, NY, and Clifton, NJ, through MDCS Dermatology. She specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology, and also serves as an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell New York Presbyterian Medical Center.

What To Look For In A Washcloth For Your Face

The best washcloths for your face (as opposed to those for your body) mostly come down to material. Here’s a deeper dive into three of the best materials for face washcloths, which can help you determine which one you might prefer.

• Microfiber: These washcloths are made from synthetic fibers that have 1/20th the diameter of silk , making them super gentle. The fibers also attract dirt, oil, and other gunk, which is why they’re excellent for everything from removing makeup to basic cleansing.
• Cotton: When in doubt, opt for classic cotton, which Dr. Camp says is “a good option for most skin types”; Dr. Garshick agrees, calling it “gentle, absorbent and helps to remove makeup.” Cotton isn’t as soft as microfiber, but it’s generally inexpensive, easy to find, and easy to clean.
• Bamboo: The most environmentally sound option, bamboo is not only super soft, but it’s also quick to dry . And due to its antimicrobial and antifungal properties , it’s an especially great choice for people with extra sensitive and/or acne-prone skin. However, to ensure you’re getting the highest-quality (and silkiest) option possible, you’ll want to check that the washcloth is made from 100% bamboo.
• Muslin: Spun from cotton, muslin has a very lightweight, linen-like texture, and has an open-weave design (like cheesecloth). This gives it the unique qualities of being both gentle and exfoliating since it helps trap dirt in the open spaces between the threads. The catch is that the fabric is thin and definitely not that “plush” feeling you’ll find with microfiber, bamboo, and other weaves of cotton like terry.

Shop The Best Washcloths For Your Face

In a hurry? Here are the best washcloths for your face:

• Best For Removing Makeup ($$): The Original MakeUp Eraser
• Budget-Friendly For Removing Makeup ($): SINLAND Microfiber Facial Cloths (6-Pack)
• Best For Sensitive Skin ($): Loran Luxury Bamboo Face Washcloths (6-Pack)
• Best Value Pack For Sensitive Skin ($): HIPHOP PANDA Bamboo Baby Washcloths (30-Pack)
• Best For Exfoliating ($$): Eve Lom Muslin Cleansing Cloth (3-Pack)
• Best Dual-Purpose Washcloths ($$): Pai Skincare Twin Flyer Cloths (3-Pack)
• Best Value Set ($): Amazon Basics Terry Cotton Washcloths (24-Pack)
• Best Disposable Washcloths ($$): Clean Skin Club Clean Towels XL (50-Pack)
• Best Mini Cloths For Removing Eye Makeup ($$): Face Halo Reusable Makeup Remover (3-Pack)
• Budget Mini Cloths For Removing Eye Makeup ($): Greenzla Reusable Cotton Pads (20-Pack)

1. The Overall Best For Removing Makeup

Also available on Sephora, $20 , and Ulta, $20

What We Like:

• Very effective at removing makeup
• Over 20,000 five-star ratings on Amazon
• Easy to wash
• Comes in lots of fun colors

What We Don’t Like:

• A bit pricey

A cult favorite among beauty fans, The Original Makeup Eraser has more than 20,000 five-star ratings on Amazon for its patented polyester blend that wipes away makeup with water alone. It actually features a short fiber side to concentrate on removing makeup, and a longer fiber side that works better to exfoliate, and both sides feel incredibly soft. I was skeptical about how much makeup could possibly be removed only using water, but I was pleasantly surprised that this really did take off foundation, sunscreen, and lipstick with ease. I did, however, need to use some eye makeup remover for my waterproof mascara.

Size: 15.5 in. x 7.25 in. | Set Of: 1 | Available Colors/Patterns: 14 | Material: Polyester | Reusable: Yes | Machine Washable: Yes | Dryer Safe: Yes

2. Best Budget-Friendly For Removing Makeup

• Has a loop to hang-dry
• Budget-friendly multi-pack
• Slow to dry

These SINLAND Microfiber Facial Cloths are similar to the MakeUp Eraser in terms of feel and performance (though they’re not quite as thick), but they’re shaped like traditional washcloths. Made from a blend of polyester and polyamide, these do a pretty good job of removing makeup with just warm water, though you may want to add a cleanser or makeup remover for any waterproof formulas. Available in larger sets of six and 10, you can also opt for a pack of two if you want to put these to the test before committing.

Size: 12 in. x 12 in. | Set Of: 2, 6, 10 | Available Colors/Patterns: 21 | Material: Polyester, Polyamide | Reusable: Yes | Machine Washable: Yes | Dryer Safe: Yes

3. Best For Sensitive Skin

Also available on Sears, $19

• Hypoallergenic
• Antimicrobial
• Made of 100% organic bamboo

Dr. Garshick shares that if you want something ultra-soft, bamboo is considered to be the gentlest option. My favorite cloths I tried (apart from the Makeup Eraser, which is superior at removing makeup), I found these Loran Luxury Bamboo Face Washcloths to be the plushest on this list (tied with the HipHop Panda cloths ahead), thanks to the bamboo fibers that are made from organically grown bamboo. “Cloths made from bamboo are reportedly antibacterial, potentially making them a good option for acne-prone skin,” Dr. Camp adds of bamboo fiber’s benefits. These towels are hypoallergenic for those with sensitive skin, too. But on the downside, I found that they took a really long time to dry.

Size: 10 in. x 10 in. | Set Of: 6 | Available Colors: 6 | Material: Bamboo | Reusable: Yes | Machine Washable: Yes | Dryer Safe: Yes

4. Best Value Pack For Sensitive Skin

• Great for a big family

These hypoallergenic bamboo washcloths were made for babies, so it’s no surprise that they have a cloud-like softness to them. These are super absorbent and perfect for pairing with a cleanser to thoroughly clean your face without causing irritation. (Pro tip: I personally prefer to start with a balm cleanser to do most of the work, and then follow up with a face cloth to help get rid of any stubborn makeup.) Because these are made from bamboo fibers and are double-layered, they do take a while to dry. But I love that each cloth has a little loop sewn in, so you can hang it up to dry more efficiently and hygienically. The other great thing about these cloths is that they’re sold in a pack of 30, making them ideal for bigger families (or people who use a new washcloth each night and don’t want to have to do laundry as frequently). The 30-pack also comes in a gift box, which means these would be a great housewarming present.

Size: 10 in. x 10 in. | Set Of: 6, 30 | Available Colors: 7 | Material: Bamboo | Reusable: Yes | Machine Washable: Yes | Dryer Safe: Yes

5. Best Washcloths For Exfoliating

Also available on Nordstrom, $27 , and Revolve, $22

• Helps to exfoliate and remove makeup
• Dries quickly
• Not dryer safe

I’m a big fan of Eve Lom’s balm cleanser , so I’ve actually had some of these muslin cleansing cloths on hand for years (I’m just embarrassingly lazy and never used them). It turns out, they’re a great addition to your cleansing routine if you want to remove heavy, waterproof makeup, or if you’d like to exfoliate without using a chemical exfoliant Each muslin cloth in this set of three is made from 100% cotton, and the material is thinner, so it dries quickly. I found that using this helped to remove my makeup much faster than just using a cleansing balm on its own. This is also the largest cloth on the list, great for anyone (like me) who finds they need more material to get their face fully clean.

Size: 10 in. x 18 in. | Set Of: 3 | Available Colors: 1 | Material: Muslin | Reusable: Yes | Machine Washable: Yes | Dryer Safe: No

6. Best Dual-Textured Washcloths

• Double-sided
• Made with 100% organic cotton
• Dual purpose; one side exfoliates, and the other removes makeup
• Expert-recommended

For a face washcloth that can pull double duty, Dr. Camp likes Pai’s Twin Flyer Cloths . “Organic cotton is used to make these facial washcloths that are double-sided,” he says of the cloths (the brand adds that they’re made from organic cotton grown in India, without the use of synthetic fertilizers). “One [side] with muslin to gently exfoliate, and the other with flannel to gently remove makeup and residue,” he explains. Dr. Camp notes that muslin fabric is a lightweight cotton, and you can differentiate it from the flannel side as it has a rougher texture. As an added bonus, he says that it “tends to dry quickly, making it less susceptible to bacterial overgrowth.” At $19 for a set of three, these are slightly more expensive than many of the other cloths on this list, but still a pretty reasonable option.

Set Of: 3 | Available Colors: 1 | Material: Muslin, Terry Flannel | Reusable: Yes | Machine Washable: | Dryer Safe: No

7. Best Value Set

• Inexpensive
• 100% cotton
• Rougher texture can potentially aggravate sensitive skin types

At just under $20 for a set of 24, this is undoubtedly the best deal on the list. These Amazon Basics Washcloths have a looped-terry cotton weave that’s surprisingly absorbent. I wouldn’t describe these as rough, but when compared to the other face washcloths on this list, I found them to be not nearly as soft, so they could potentially aggravate more sensitive skin types. On the plus side, they come in several color options so you can match them to your bath towels, if you like a cohesive aesthetic.

Size: 12 in. x 12 in. | Set Of: 24, 60 | Available Colors: 8 | Material: Looped-Terry Cotton | Reusable: Yes | Machine Washable: Yes | Dryer Safe: Yes

8. Best Disposable Washcloths

Also available on Walmart, $12 (25-Pack)

• You don’t have to worry about washing them
• Can buy in bulk or travel-size packs
• Exper-recommended
• Not reusable

Another dermatologist-tested and -approved pick, Dr. Garshick recommends the Clean Skin Club Clean Towels for anyone on the go (or for anyone who just doesn’t have a good track record when it comes to regularly laundering washcloths), as they’re biodegradable and “gentle on the skin.” She adds, “They may be made up of eucalyptus or bamboo , making them gentle on the skin while also prioritizing hygiene since you never need to reuse a dirty towel,” she adds. Featured here in the eucalyptus fiber material, the cloths are OEKO-TEX-certified (so they’re free from harmful substances), USDA Certified Biobased, and biodegradable. These aren’t plush like the bamboo and microfiber cloths, but they do feel soft. They’re also large enough to clean your entire face (and even wipe your countertop dry) before throwing them out — some Amazon shoppers even use half at a time to get more mileage out of their order. They also come in a range of pack sizes, from travel-friendly sets of 10 to bigger 200- and 300-count sets that’ll last you a while.

Size: 10 in. x 12 in. | Set Of: 10, 50, 100, 150, 200, 300 | Available Colors: 1 | Material: Eucalyptus Or Bamboo | Reusable: No

9. Best Mini Washcloths For Removing Eye Makeup

Also available on Revolve, $22

• Quick drying
• Smaller size

If you prefer the softness (and quick dry time) of a microfiber cloth, these Face Halo Reusable Makeup Remover Pads are a solid investment for removing eye makeup, or for taking off a full face of makeup without a traditional washcloth. These reusable pads are slightly larger than the Greenzla pads below, and they have a fluffier texture that dries much faster than cotton. These are also machine washable, but on the downside, they don’t come with their own little laundry bag like the Greenzla cloths do. These also come in a few colors, including black, which will better camouflage makeup stains than white.

Set Of: 1, 3 | Available Colors: 3 | Material: Microfiber | Reusable: Yes | Machine Washable: Yes | Dryer Safe: No

10. Best Budget Mini Washcloths For Removing Eye Makeup

• Comes with a washing bag
• Comes in a 20-pack

Even with a double cleanse, I sometimes struggle to remove all of my eye makeup on the occasions when I’m wearing waterproof mascara and eyeliner. But these Greenzla Reusable Cotton Pads are ideal for pairing with an eye makeup remover and gently getting rid of every last trace of makeup. Unlike traditional cotton pads, these bamboo and cotton pads are reusable, and they also don’t leave behind tiny pieces of cotton that get stuck to your face or on your eyelashes. This set of 20 means you’ll have plenty of cloths to get you through the week. Each order also comes with a box for easy storage, plus a mini drawstring washing bag, so you don’t have to worry about losing any of the pads in the laundry.

Set Of: 20 | Available Colors: 1 | Material: Bamboo, Cotton | Reusable: Yes | Machine Washable: Yes | Dryer Safe: No

How We Tested

In addition to consulting with board-certified dermatologists, our team of editors and contributors researched materials and pored over reviews to select products for consideration. I also personally put these cloths to the test, evaluating features like texture, ease of use, and value, before giving them a spot on this list.

Why Use A Face Washcloth?

While there’s no rule that says you need to use a face washcloth, it can be especially helpful in ensuring that every last trace of makeup is removed, thereby giving your skin a more thorough clean. Face washcloths can also act as a gentle physical exfoliant, as an added bonus. Dr. Camp shares, “Integrating a washcloth into your skin care routine can remove dead skin cells that contribute to the appearance of a dull complexion,” continuing, “Washcloths can help to reveal healthy, bright layers of skin.”

How Do You Keep Face Washcloths Clean?

All of the reusable washcloths featured above come with their own washing and drying instructions, which you’ll want to carefully follow to ensure that they perform and last well. (But when in doubt, always wash in cold water on the gentle cycle and air dry.) If you wear waterproof makeup, or find that you have a lot of makeup left behind on your cloth, you can also try soaking it in warm water and a bit of laundry detergent for a few minutes before placing it in the washing machine to prevent stains.

The important thing is that you regularly launder your face washcloths — ideally after every use, but several times weekly is still acceptable , according to the Cleveland Clinic. “Bacteria, molds, and impurities can accumulate on a used washcloth, and exposure to them can increase the risk of infection,” confirms Dr. Camp of the importance of using freshly laundered washcloths. FYI, that also means you’ll want to launder any new washcloths prior to using them for the first time, too.

More Tips For Washing Your Face

To learn more about the benefits of face washcloths, check out Bustle’s expert-driven guide on why you should be using a washcloth for cleansing your face . If you’re looking for a cleanser to use in tandem with a face washcloth, try one of the Best Cleansing Balms or the B est Makeup-Removing Cleansers . Fans of longwear formulas will especially appreciate Elite Daily’s roundup of the Best Makeup Removers For Waterproof Mascara .

About The Tester

Marissa DeSantis has worked as a beauty writer and editor for nearly 10 years. Her pieces can be found across print and digital publications like Bustle, Evening Standard, Teen Vogue, and InStyle.

Dr. Brendan Camp, M.D., board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist

Dr. Marisa Garshick, M.D., board-certified dermatologist

Studies Referenced:

Investigating the Antibacterial Characteristics of Japanese Bamboo, by Raviduth Ramful, Thefye P. M. Sunthar, Kaeko Kamei, and Giuseppe Pezzotti; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9137583/

This article was originally published on Feb. 22, 2021

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The 14 Best Face Washcloths of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Leigh is a New York-based freelance writer with a decade of experience in media. She has been contributing to Byrdie since June 2019, specializing in wellness.

Byrdie / Leigh Weingus

By the time you hit your 30s, you learn that taking off your makeup and washing your face is a crucial step in your P.M. routine. Gone are the days of passing out in last night’s makeup and rolling into the office looking as if you had a full night’s sleep—to achieve that fresh-faced look now, you need to carefully cleanse and actually get some shut-eye.

When it comes to the cleansing process, a good washcloth is essential. “I love a good washcloth,” board-certified dermatologist Dr. Purvisha Patel tells Byrdie, explaining that they can be used to exfoliate your skin as you wash away the day’s makeup, dirt, and grime.

As for what to look for in a washcloth that removes makeup, she’s all about “an old-fashioned nubbly washcloth for oily or normal skin” and notes that if you have dry, sensitive skin, you should opt for a smoother, softer cloth.

I fall in the normal skin camp, although I am prone to acne at certain times of the month. With Dr. Patel’s advice in mind, I spent 90 hours testing 14 different highly-rated washcloths. I evaluated each washcloth's material, size, and machine-washability, then scored them based on texture and feel, how exfoliating they were, how easily they removed makeup, and more.

Read on to find out which ones worked best for me.

How We Tested Washcloths

• What To Look For

Why Trust Byrdie

Best overall, pai twin flyer cloths.

Pai Skincare

Double-sided for exfoliating and cleansing

Made with 100% organic cotton

Super-absorbent

Doesn’t fully remove waterproof mascara

There’s a lot to love about this washcloth. First, it’s double-sided—one side is muslin for exfoliation, and the other is flannel for cleansing and removing makeup. It’s made of 100% organic cotton, meaning it’s unlikely to irritate the skin, and at $19 for three cloths, it’s relatively affordable. 

The feel is very soft and luxurious (more so on the flannel side, but the muslin side is soft as well), so I gave it five for the overall feel. The muslin side is incredibly exfoliating, earning itself a score of five for exfoliation as well. It’s nice and small, too, which I love; it’s never fun when a washcloth takes up too much space. 

The one downside of this washcloth is that it won’t remove all of your makeup. While it wiped away my tinted moisturizer, cheek tint, and concealer easily, it just wasn’t a match for my waterproof mascara (which I learned throughout this testing process was incredibly hard to remove in general), so I gave it a four for makeup removal. 

Material: 100% organic cotton | Size: Small | Absorbency: Very absorbent | Colors: Off-white | Machine Washable: Yes

Best Budget

The body shop luxury flannel facial washcloth.

Made with facial flannel

Very smooth on the skin

Budget-friendly

Great for on-the-go

Dries very stiff

Needs to be very wet to work well

The Body Shop’s washcloths cost just $6.50 each and are wrapped individually, making them a great budget-friendly pick for both at-home and on-the-go cleansing. Crafted from 100 percent flannel, they’re quite soft on the skin, though not crazy soft (I gave them a softness score of four). They’re quite good for makeup removal if you use them while very wet, though they did leave behind some of my mascara, which is to be expected. When it comes to exfoliation, they do a so-so job.

Other than the fact that they’re more effective the wetter you get them, one thing to note is that they dry very, very stiff—and do look a bit strange. But that can be easily remedied once you re-wet them.

Material: Facial flannel/100% PVA | Size: Small | Absorbency: Very absorbent | Colors: White | Machine Washable: No

Best for On-the-Go

Tatcha kinu silk face cloth.

Works even when it isn’t wet

Made from 100% silk

Incredibly soft and luxurious

Not very exfoliating

Not machine washable

Is there anything more luxurious than using 100 percent silk on your face? We don’t think so, which is why this washcloth earned a score of five for texture and feel. It’s one of the least irritating washcloths I tested, and I love how tiny it is, making it perfect for on-the-go use. Another bonus? It can be used wet or dry.

It didn’t rank high from an exfoliating perspective; after all, silk just isn’t that exfoliating. However, where it’s lacking in exfoliation, it makes up for in makeup removal: Although it didn’t get all my makeup off (that pesky mascara!), the fact that it can remove foundation, cheek tint, and concealer even while dry is enough to score a five in my book. The soothing purple color is a nice touch.

One issue I had with this washcloth is that it’s not machine washable; I love to be able to throw everything in the laundry when it needs a good cleaning. It’s also pretty pricey: $70 (!) for a five-pack is a hefty price to pay for washcloths. But hey, no one ever said silk was cheap!

Material: 100% silk | Size: Small | Absorbency: Not very absorbent | Colors: Light purple | Machine Washable: No

Best for Acne-Prone Skin

Resorè face towel.

Kills acne-causing bacteria and breaks down dirt and odor

Incredibly soft

Removes makeup well

Machine washable

Not super exfoliating

A super-soft washcloth that also fights acne ? I’ll take it. I was impressed by how soothing this washcloth was on my skin, especially given the fact that it’s designed to kill acne-causing bacteria. Also impressive? Its ability to remove makeup. It quickly took off my tinted moisturizer, mascara, and cheek tint. While it didn’t immediately remove my mascara, with enough work, it finally did, which is more than I can say for most washcloths.

Another huge bonus is that it’s machine washable. The downsides? When it came to exfoliation, I wasn’t blown away. Plus, ringing it at $35 per cloth, it’s on the pricey side.

Material: 67% cotton, 15% lyocell, 15% rayon made from bamboo, 3% silverback polyester | Size: Medium | Absorbency: Very absorbent | Colors: White | Machine Washable: Yes

Best for Makeup Removal

Face halo original.

Read Full Review: I Tried the Sustainable Makeup Remover Every Top MUA Is Obsessed With

Uses a high-performance, ultra-fine microfiber to remove makeup

Black color makes it hard to see makeup you’ve removed

The standout feature of this washcloth is how well it removes makeup. It was the only one of the bunch that removed my waterproof mascara quickly and easily, thanks to the high-performance, ultra-fine microfiber it’s made of. But while it’s certainly soft, it doesn’t have the super-luxurious feel other washcloths did, earning itself a score of three for texture and feel. Luckily, that isn’t the most important thing for me; I care more about whether it gets the job done from an exfoliation and makeup removal perspective.

Speaking of exfoliation , I didn’t find this washcloth to be super exfoliating, but my skin did feel nice and clean and not at all dry or irritated after using. I also love how compact these are and the fact that I can toss them into the washing machine with a load of laundry. 

Material: Ultra-fine microfiber | Size: Small | Absorbency: Relatively absorbent | Colors: Black | Machine Washable: Yes

Best for Exfoliation

Eve lom 3 muslin cloths.

Made with 100% cotton

Very exfoliating

Removes makeup relatively well

A little bit drying/irritating

Not super absorbent

There’s a lot to love about these washcloths from Eve Lom. They’re made from 100 percent cotton, they feel clean and crisp on the skin, they’re machine-washable, and at $22 for a three-pack, they’re pretty affordable. I went into testing them hyper-focused on makeup removal, but I was surprised to find that exfoliation is where they really shined. They’re truly effective, earning a score of five for buffing away dead skin and debris.

 But here’s where I warn you: Be careful and don’t scrub too hard with these muslin cloths, as my face felt a bit dry after using. Other than that, I liked them. They adequately remove makeup, taking off everything aside from my mascara relatively easily.

Material: 100% cotton | Size: Medium | Absorbency: Somewhat absorbent | Colors: White | Machine Washable: Yes

Best for Sensitive Skin

Hiphop panda bamboo washcloths.

Incredibly soft and soothing

Made from bamboo

Face felt very soft after use

Not exfoliating

Doesn’t get all makeup off

Simply put, I loved this washcloth. While it didn’t remove all my makeup (I gave it a four), nor was it super exfoliating (it’s designed for newborns, so that makes sense—I gave it a three), it was so soft and soothing on my skin. 

 Made from bamboo, these washcloths are some of the softest out there, so it should go without saying that I gave it a five for texture and feel. Their skin-smoothing, gentle nature also makes them a great option for anyone with sensitive or finicky skin. Plus, the little panda designs on the packaging are so cute—I’m a big fan!

Material: 90% rayon made from bamboo, 10% cotton | Size: Small | Absorbency: Very absorbent | Colors: Available in seven colors | Machine Washable: Yes

Amazon Basics Egyptian Cotton Washcloths

A basic, standard washcloth

Made from 100% Egyptian cotton

Available in several colors

My skin felt a little raw after use

First things first: This is a very standard washcloth without many bells and whistles. It's made from 100 percent Egyptian cotton, so it's somewhat soft, but it also left my skin feeling a little dry afterward. In terms of cleansing and makeup removal, it did a pretty standard job, wiping away most of my makeup (but not all), and it does a decent—but not amazing job—exfoliating.

The main takeaway from this washcloth is that it will clean your face well, but probably won't blow you away in any way. It's a solid, reliable basic with a pretty reasonable price tag, considering the material.

Material: 100% Egyptian cotton | Size: Small | Absorbency: Very absorbent | Colors: Available in seven colors | Machine Washable: Yes

Runner-Up, Best Basic

Amazon basics fast-drying absorbent washcloths.

A very standard, back-to-basics washcloth

Machine-washable

100% cotton

Exfoliates and removes makeup relatively well

No standout qualities

This is a very, very basic washcloth, but a reliable standby. In fact, it’s probably the washcloth you’ve been using your whole life. It’s not crazy soft, but not super rough either; it exfoliates, but not super well. It removes most makeup but leaves a little bit behind. Overall, if you’re looking for a very standard, bare-bones washcloth with no fancy promises, this is it. It doesn't hurt that it's machine washable and affordable, too. 

Material: 100% cotton | Size: Medium | Absorbency: Very absorbent | Colors: Available in 8 different colors | Machine Washable: Yes

Best Soft Option

Kitsch microfiber makeup-removing towels.

Does a decent job removing makeup

Not very absorbent

Leaves the face feeling very damp

Black color makes it hard to see removed makeup

The Kitsch Microfiber Makeup-Removing Towel is very, very soft; so soft that I gave it a five in that department. If the name is any indication, this washcloth is specifically designed for removing makeup, so if that’s what you’re looking for, consider this a worthy option.

However, I did find some flaws with it. It’s not very absorbent, making it hard to keep the towel super wet—the water drops roll off of it. When I finally got it wet enough, it effectively took off most of my makeup as promised, but it was hard to see exactly how much makeup was coming off because it’s black. While this is an advantage from a staining perspective, it can be somewhat frustrating when you’re trying to understand how much more makeup you have left to remove. Finally, after cleansing , my face felt so damp that I had to fully towel it off with another washcloth which was…interesting. I wasn’t blown away from an exfoliation perspective either, but again, that’s not really what this washcloth is about.

Material: 100% polyester | Size: Small | Absorbency: Not very absorbent | Colors: Black | Machine Washable: Yes

Best Chic Option

Coyuchi mediterranean organic towel.

• Quality 4.9 /5
• Absorbency 5 /5
• Texture 5 /5
• Durability 4.4 /5
• Dry Time 5 /5

Very chic look

Made from 100% organic cotton

Removes makeup somewhat well

Sustainable

Skin felt smoother after use

Stains easily

I’ve been a fan of Coyuchi for years, so I was excited to try this washcloth. It has a very chic look to it, thanks to the subtle gray stripe detail at the bottom, which I’m a big fan of. It just looks good hanging up in your bathroom.

In terms of function, it didn’t blow me away from a testing perspective. It removed most, but not all, of my makeup, and it did a great job exfoliating my face without leaving it dry or irritated. It wasn’t the softest or most luxurious washcloth I tried, but it was just soft enough.

One thing worth noting: It stains easily. It’s machine washable, so I threw it in the dryer, and my makeup was very visible on it afterward. So if you want it to maintain its chic look, I recommend using stain remover and rinsing it out before tossing it in your washer/dryer. 

Material: 100% organic cotton | Size: Medium | Absorbency: Medium absorbency | Colors: White | Machine Washable: Yes

Best Unique Option

Boscia konjac cleansing sponge.

Natural konjac fibers for gentle exfoliation

Good for sensitive skin

Made by a family-owned company

Really doesn’t remove makeup at all

Of all the washcloths I tested, this one intrigued me the most. Konjac root is known for its health benefits, and in this case, it aims to gently cleanse and exfoliate the skin. It’s extremely soft and luxurious, and in addition to cleansing, it does provide a mild (like, very mild) exfoliating effect. While it was fun to use, I was pretty let down when it came to makeup removal—it didn’t remove any of my makeup.

Overall, I wasn’t the biggest fan of this little sponge, but I do love that it’s affordable (it costs about $8), good for sensitive skin, and can be used over and over again.

Material: 100% Asian Konjac Root | Size: Small | Absorbency: Very absorbent | Colors: Off white | Machine Washable: No

Best Plush Option

Brooklinen super-plush washcloths.

Made from 100% Turkish cotton

Very soft and plush as promised

Skin felt moisturized and calm after use

On the large side

Similar to Coyuchi, I’ve long been a fan of Brooklinen for years. I absolutely love their bathrobes and swear by their sheets, so I was very excited to try this washcloth. It was very soft and plush (scoring a perfect five in the texture and feel department) and removed makeup somewhat well—it didn’t pick up much, if any, of my mascara. While I wasn’t blown away, it did exfoliate my skin somewhat well, too.

The one downside to this washcloth (other than that it didn’t remove all my makeup) is that it’s a little on the large side; I personally like my washcloths to run a bit smaller! It’s also a tad pricey at $19 per cloth. Overall, where this washcloth really stands out is the feel. It’s incredibly plush—must be that 100% Turkish cotton. 

Material: 100% Turkish cotton | Size: Medium to large-ish | Absorbency: Somewhat absorbent | Colors: Available in 12 colors | Machine Washable: Yes

Best Fun Option

Makeup eraser the original makeup eraser.

Read Full Review: This Makeup Remover Cloth Turned Me Into a Believer

Fun, vibrant colors

Doesn’t totally remove makeup

Left my skin feeling a bit dry after

The Original Makeup eraser is super fun—coming in several very bright, vibrant colors—and boasts a super soft and plush feel. It comes with a big promise: To erase makeup, which it doesn’t quite do, though it does get most of it off. Because it’s so soft and gentle, I also wouldn’t rely on it for any heavy exfoliation. Similar to the Kitsch towel, it’s not the most absorbent. This makes it hard to get it fully wet, and I also found that it left my face feeling pretty dry afterward.

Material: 100% polyester | Size: Small | Absorbency: Not very absorbent | Colors: Available in 8 very vibrant colors | Machine Washable: Yes

Byrdie / Ashley Rebecca

What Our Testers Say

"The fabric is very soft and gentle and doesn’t pull on the skin, which is important. It's affordable and really works; what else can you ask for?" — Ashley Rebecca , Product Tester

Final Verdict

Our favorite washcloths overall are Pai Twin Flyer Cloths . We love the soft, ultra-absorbent organic cotton material and appreciate how the double-sided design allows you to cleanse and exfoliate. But if you're looking for something a bit more basic and wallet-friendly, you can go wrong with Amazon Basics Fast-Drying Absorbent Washcloths , which come in packs of 24 or 60.

We tested these washcloths by applying a full face of makeup and using each cloth under several circumstances—sometimes when the makeup had been on for hours, other times immediately afterward. For exfoliation, we paired each washcloth with a cleanser to see how well they sloughed away dirt and dead skin cells. As you can see from the reviews, some were more effective than others. I have very normal skin, so that’s worth considering as you read. If your skin leans towards sensitive or acne-prone, you may want to opt for a washcloth that’s geared toward those skin types.

We also interviewed an expert to fully understand what certain materials do and how to best use washcloths. 

Meet the Expert

Dr. Purvisha Patel is a board-certified dermatologist and the creator of Visha Skincare.

What to Look For in a Washcloth

Throughout testing, I learned different materials are geared toward different skin benefits and goals. For example, muslin exfoliates well, while polyester is relatively good at removing makeup. Ultrafine microfibers (like what Face Halo Reusable Pads are made of) are excellent at removing makeup. Silk can remove makeup without you even having to wet it first. Cotton is a basic, effective material that will cleanse well and remove makeup.

One thing I found throughout testing is that bigger is not necessarily better. I found smaller products to be a lot better—I loved when I could simply slip a washcloth into my bag or put it away neatly on a shelf. About 12 x 12 inches is a good size, like Amazon Basics Fast-Drying Absorbent Washcloths .

Do you want a washcloth that shows no signs of stains? You might want to opt for black, such as Kitsch Microfiber Makeup-Removing Towels . If you want a washcloth that shows you exactly what you’re taking off, a lighter color is better.

Machine-Washable

This might come down to personal preference, but I was always relieved to find that a washcloth was machine-washable, as with the Resore Face Wash Cloth . In my opinion, it’s just so much easier!

You don't necessarily need to wash your face using a washcloth, but you'll likely need one to dry off your face after cleansing it in the sink. That said, some people like to use washcloths to gently cleanse by lathering cleanser over their skin, and others use them for physical exfoliation. To keep things clean and prevent bacteria and mildew, you might consider using a fresh washcloth each day. In that case, you'll want relatively small cloths—no more than roughly 12 x 12 inches.

Typically, you’ll want to first wet the washcloth, although some can be used dry. Next, use gentle, circular motions to help remove dirt, makeup, and other impurities from your face. Afterward, gently pat dry and apply a moisturizer. You can use a washcloth with or without a cleanser.

It depends on the washcloth. Some have to air dry, while others are machine washable. If you don’t want them to stain, be sure to rinse thoroughly and/or apply a stain remover before washing.

How often you'll need to replace your washcloths depends on how often you use them and what they're made of, but a year is generally a good timeframe. If they lose their absorbency or the texture becomes too rough, swap it out for something softer.

It depends on how you're cleaning your skin and what you're trying to achieve, but generally speaking, a cotton or microfiber washcloth is best for the face. Both materials are soft and absorbent, making them suitable for both cleansing and drying. Beyond that, a more textured fabric like terry cloth cotton will be better for exfoliation because it helps slough off dead skin cells, whereas a smoother surface is ideal for gentle cleansing.

Microfiber cloths are an excellent choice for cleansing and drying the face. Woven from polyester and polyamide, the synthetic fabric is exceptionally soft and absorbent. It's also relatively thin compared to terry cloth cotton towels, so a stack of microfiber washcloths on your bathroom counter will take up less space.

Leigh Weingus is a New York-based freelance writer with a decade of experience in media.

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A Guide To The Best Cleansers & Face Washes For Travel

16 nov a guide to the best cleansers & face washes for travel.

It’s important to take the time to properly cleanse your skin at the end of the day especially whilst travelling.

Visiting beautiful, but often polluted, cities or liberally applying sunscreen at the beach exposes your skin to unknown chemicals, dirt and debris that can affect its complexion. Flying can also leave your skin feeling dehydrated, tight and dull.

Cleansing removes these built up impurities that can block your pores and lead to irritated, dry or even acne prone skin.

Whether you are looking for an oil controlling cleanser, a cleanser to reduce your in-flight liquids or just a fuss free way to clean your face, our extensive guide to the best cleansers and face washes for travel has got you covered.

In This Travel Cleanser Article:

• Travel Liquid Cleansers
• Travel Powder Cleansers
• Travel Solid Stick Cleansers
• Travel Cleansing Facial Wipes
• Travel Cleansing Tools

1. Best Liquid Cleansers For Travel

Let’s chat about the classic liquid cleanser…

Focusing on products with hydration, gentle exfoliation and decongesting pores. Important when flying, spending a whole day in the city or sun as that can really leave your skin feeling dull and dehydrated. Find a travel size of your favourite liquid cleanser or decant it into handy travel pots . 

Keep an eye out for cleansers at duty free, as you can save on the RRP & is also an approved way of getting full sized liquids onto the plane. Win-win. ?

Here are our top travel face wash cleansers to ensure your skin stays clean and clear wherever you’re on-the-go .

Gel Balm Cleanser

Prayers have been answered with the release of Eve Lom’s lightweight, portable take on their OG cleansing balm.

This cleanser is literally made for travellers. Its infused with Shea butter to replenish lost moisture from the flight and the signature eucalyptus and chamomile oil dissolves impurities and grime built up from a day of exploring. A no brainer travel addition.

Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleanser

Formulated with white Amazonian clay, this liquid facial cleanser is perfect for travel as it decongests pores, successfully clearing the skin of blackheads and surface impurities.

Aiming to target skin congestion this cleanser will clear your pores of  thick suncream and dirt, without removing that much needed moisture.

Find Your Balance Cleanser

Ole henrickson.

If you have oily skin and are concerned about the effects of suncream on holiday, this travel friendly facial cleanser is proven to reduce oil and restore the skin’s balance after a build up of irritants and dirt.

Part of a three-piece travel oil controlling kit that work alongside each other to balance and mattify your skin. Ideal if you know travelling unbalances your skin’s oil production.

Clarifying Cleanser

Spots suck, and even more so on holiday. BUT Murad’s clarifying cleanser with salicylic acid and green tea extract helps reduce that dreaded threat of acne by stripping away pore clogging grim and releasing a soothing medication to treat and prevent breakouts.

Leaving your skin feeling balanced, purified and you worry free, ready for that sunset insta shoot.

2. Best Travel Cleansing Powders

Made from finely milled ingredients such as rice bran or oats, you simply add water to turn the powder into a foamy lather.

Customise the texture of the powder to suit your skin. Simply add more water for a gentle cleanse or slightly less for a deeper clean.

Powder cleansers are ideal for travel as they don’t contribute to your liquid limits and usually come in lightweight, compact packaging.

What’s even better? The course, grainy texture can double up as an exfoliator. So not only do they reduce your travel weight, but they are a multi-tasking product that help streamline your travel skincare collection.

Fresh Pressed Renewing Powder Cleanser

This ultra fine powder cleanser with added vitamin C, awakens the skin and refines its texture for an all round brighter look, perfect for a dull post-flight complexion.

The gentle exfoliation delivers instant results, revealing awakened, rejuvenated skin.

The individual powder cleanser sachets are great for travelling as you can just take as many packets as your need, instead of a heavy bottle.

Radiance Boosting Powder

The natural white clay powder of this cleanser, when mixed with warm water, helps to smooth and purify the complexion. With added rose, jasmine and neroli petals, it acts to remineralise, soothe and rehydrate the skin, providing the nutrients your skin craves after a day in the sun.

The botanical scent alongside its nourishing formula is a perfect and luxurious way to begin or end a day of travelling.

Magic Black Powder Sparkling Wash Powder

Achieve a brighter, more radiant complexion with this travel friendly cleansing powder by removing dead skin cells, blackheads and impurities. The cleansing powder also  draws out harsh toxins to purify the skin and promote cellular repair and restoration.

This formula works perfectly for travellers who are apply heavy sun creams daily or are worried about the effects of city grime on their skin.

Daily Microfoliant

Dermalogica.

Targeting that dull and dry holiday complexion, this rice based exfoliating powder gently removes dead skin cells and daily dirt to brighten and polish the skin. It also regulates the production of melanin which has been found to help protect your skin from UV rays.

The perfect powder cleanser for travel as it comes in a mini 13g size with no chance of liquid spillage!

3. Best Solid Stick Cleansers

Say hello to our favourite type of travel face wash . Cleansing sticks help streamline your skin care routine, fit easily into a carry on bag and are an essential for any light traveller.  It is a multi tasking miracle, as it cleanses, exfoliates and brightens your skin all from a simple swipe and a splash of water.

These travel stick cleansers are the new travel must have; the solid formula means it can’t be confiscated at the airport and you don’t have to worry about it leaking in your bag and ruining your clothes.

Dubbed the ‘face wash for people that don’t like to wash their face’ it couldn’t be easier to achieve a flawless complexion and glowing skin, even on holiday.

Frxxxtion Stick Exfoliating Cleanser

This 3 in 1 cleanser, exfoliator and face mask is the ultimate travel face wash essential.

It can be used daily to help draw out surface oils and reduce shine or left on as a mask to deeply clean the skin, absorb toxins and reveal a glowing complexion. This cleanser is a great in-flight face wash as it is a mess free way to rejuvenate even the driest complexion.

Real Fresh Cleansing Stick

Neogen’s multipurpose travel friendly cleansing stick contains thirteen natural oils, including coconut and evening primrose, that gently cleans your skin and removes daily makeup.

Perfect for on the go travel, the addition of green tea leaves means the formula is full of antioxidants and moisturising qualities to help repair skin from weather damage and reduce inflammation and dryness caused by flying .

In Your Face Cleansing Bar

Using New Zealand’s natural sea salt, this cleansing bar leaves your skin with a vibrant and glowing complexion. Ideal for combatting post flight dryness as the addition of cocoa butter, coconut oil and sweet orange essential oil provides deep moisturisation and re-hydration without leaving the skin feeling greasy.

This cleanser is also perfect for the conscious traveller. Being plastic free, carbon neutral, palm oil free and vegan its not only good for your skin, but also good for the environment.

Matcha Cleanser Mini

Milk makeup.

This cleanser is an all in one product for any gal looking for a complete facial and a bit of pampering whilst travelling. It exfoliates, detoxifies, purifies, and banishes excess oil using matcha and lavender extract.

This antioxidant heavy formula targets all skin concerns- think acne, inflammation and redness, so is the perfect way to nourish and soothe your skin, giving you spa like results without having to leave your hotel room. Plus it comes in a mini stick form that makes it the perfect cleanser for travel .

4. Best Cleansing Wipes For Travel

Cleansing face wipes are an essential for any savvy traveller. Easy to pack and mess free, they are a fast way to rid your skin of dirt and makeup while keeping your skin hydrated.

Cleansing wipes are ideal for a quick refresh mid-flight, offering a boost of hydration whilst avoiding the awkward climb over the person next to you to get to the bathroom.

You may not want to permanently replace your usual cleanser with face wipes, but as a holiday companion there is nothing easier than removing your makeup in one simple swipe from the comfort of your bed.

Makeup Melting Cleansing Cloths

Let’s be real ladies, we’re most likely wearing makeup most days while travelling cause you know…. for the ‘gram.

That’s where these makeup melting wipes come oh-so-handy. Swipes your makeup off like a dream and it doesn’t leave the skin feeling dry or dehydrated after.

Coming in a clip up packet, these are the perfect facial wipes for your travels .

Hydro Boost Facial Cleanser

Perfect for dry or dehydrated skin, Neutrogena’s travel friendly facial wipes use hydrating technology combined with hyaluronic acid to ensure an effective clean and produces a protective barrier to help lock in moisture in the skin.

These wipes are great to use mid-flight to rehydrate your skin and clean away any built up oil and dirt. They make a great addition to every traveller’s hand luggage, whatever your budget.

Take The Day Off Micellar Towelettes

Cliniques ready-to-go cleansing towelettes are saturated in a soothing micellar cleansing liquid to swiftly remove makeup without causing any irritation. The moisturising formula ensures your skin is not left feeling tight or dehydrated and the resealable packaging means the wipes won’t dry out.

A great travel alternative to the Take The Day Off Balm Cleanser or Liquid Makeup Remover . Save your liquid allowance for all your other beauty products! #travelhack

Sensibio H2O Wipes

These wipes are a sister product of Bioderma’s infamous Micellar Solution , they offer the same cleansing and moisturising results but are way easier to chuck in your hand luggage.

With the helpful  addition of allantoin, they are a perfect on the go option for when you need to clean and soothe your skin, without leaving a greasy residue.

5. Best Travel Face Cleansing Tool

Who doesn’t want to make washing their face easier, especially on holiday? From cleansing pads to silicone cleansing devices these tools aims to streamline your skincare collection and improve your cleanse, leaving your skin feeling clean and clear, with little to no hassle.

They’re small enough to throw in your hand luggage, take up basically no space and are reusable. Basically everything you want when you’re on holiday, no?

Make sure your skin isn’t sensitive to these tools and remember to thoroughly wash your cleansing pads and brushes after each use to avoid a build up of any bacteria!

The Modern Makeup Remover

Labelled the game changing makeup remover, these reusable fibre pads use only water to trap and remove makeup and dirt for a deep clean and gentle exfoliation.

The water loosens your makeup allowing the fine fibres to reach deep into your pores to decongest and clear your skin. Replacing up to 500 traditional wipes, these pads are the ultimate space saver for travellers and limit the impact your skincare routine has on the environment, without forcing your to forgo the ease of a makeup wipe.

Luna Play Plus

This tool is perfect for anyone that describes their skincare routine as ‘lazy-but-ambitious’. The LUNA Play Plus provides a deep clean, with minimal effort, using thousands of pulsations to reach deep into your pores and remove dirt, sweat and makeup residue.

Simply apply your cleanser and use the LUNA to gently massage it on your face. It’s the smallest of the LUNA products and the perfect cleanser tool for on the go travel , allowing you to maintain glowing, clear skin wherever you are.

Remy Face Microfibre Pad

Remy could be your new reusable, make-up removing best friend. Replacing wipes, oils and cleansers these micro-fibre pads can be used up to 200 times to melt away makeup and impurities with only warm water.

An impressive space saver and ultimate travel cleansing tool , the Remy pad can substitute a whole host of skincare products without compromising on results.

Have you tried any of these cleansers?

What are your favourite cleansers to use when you’re travelling?

Let us know on Instagram if you know of the best travel cleansers! We’d love to hear your suggestions.

Pin this article for later!

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What Are the Best Washcloths for Your Face?

If you’re anything like us, you put a lot of thought into washing your face. Maybe you found a Holy Grail cleanser that isn’t too drying or too oily, or maybe you rely on the double-cleansing method to fully remove makeup and sunscreen . But even if you have the cleanser part down pat, you might be undoing all of your hard work by washing and drying your face with a towel that’s too harsh or — if you use the same towel for your hands and the rest of your body — by introducing grime back onto your face. We spoke to two dermatologists and an aesthetician about their favorite facial washcloths for all types of skin.

Best silk washcloths

We’re already believers in the skin benefits of silk pillowcases , and dermatologist Patricia Wexler says raw silk works wonders as a cleansing cloth as well. “It’s soft enough to be good for any skin type, but loosens up dead skin cells, toxins, makeup, and anything you want to get rid of.” She explains that sericin, a protein found in silk, helps with “cellular regeneration, cellular repair, and skin hydration.” All natural and reusable, silk cloths are environmentally-friendly, too.

Wexler recommends looking for raw “noil” silk that feels a bit stiffer and more cottonlike than the typical, smooth type. In its raw form, noil silk makes for a durable cleansing cloth.

Best muslin washcloths

Muslin, a lightweight cotton, is a popular option for facial cloths. Wexler says the loosely woven material “dries very quickly, so it’s not prone to bacterial growth like a sponge or the brush on a mechanical device.” Diana Yerkes, lead aesthetician at Rescue Spa agrees that muslin cloths are “great because they’re gentle on skin and easy to rinse out.” She’s a fan of these luxe Eve Lom cloths, which Wexler calls “the Hermès of washcloths.”

Yerkes recommends using a clean cloth each day to “prevent bacteria from accumulating and guarantee the freshness of your cloth.” Since you’ll be tossing one in the laundry daily, it’s smart to invest in a week’s worth. Unlike terry cloth, which Yerkes says “might be good initially, but it gets too rough when washed too many times,” muslin will stay soft after every wash.

Best bamboo washcloths

Since bamboo is “naturally antibacterial and antifungal,” according Yerkes, cloths made from the plant’s fibers can help control acne-causing bacteria in those with blemish-prone skin. Like muslin, the soft material is gentle enough that it won’t irritate existing pimples.

“I like organic bamboo baby washcloths,” says Yerkes. “They are perfect for the face.” It makes sense that the deep-cleaning, yet not-too-harsh, fabric pops up frequently in cloths and towels meant for sensitive baby skin.

Best bamboo muslin washcloth

Dermatologist Michele Green prefers bamboo muslin blended cloths, which she says “are delicate enough for the most sensitive skin and are antibacterial,” combining the benefits of the two types of cloths. Sold in a box of seven — one for each day of the week — she says these Aurelia cloths are “the most luxurious for face washing.”

Best konjac washcloth

If you can’t resist a rigorous cleaning, look for a textured, exfoliating cloth that’ll remove dead skin cells. Kim Zimmerman, director of e-commerce and marketing at Rescue Spa says their clients are fans of Konjac sponges for giving pores a deep cleaning. Konjac is also available in cloth form from Boscia. Konjac can’t go in the wash, though, so you’ll have to replace these every few weeks.

Best double-sided washcloths

As daily exfoliation can be rough on the skin, Yerkes advises that “the exfoliating-type cloth is good a couple of times a week only, not every day.” Made from impurity-absorbing charcoal, Yerkes likes that this towel has two sides — a coarse one for when you want to scrub, and a softer one for the rest of the time. She personally uses the exfoliating side twice a week. Back in our Made in Japan week, writer Kurt Soller called the Morihata’s body-size version “a more pleasant, calming vehicle for cleansing oneself.”

Wexler singled out this double-sided cloth from Pai that pairs soft flannel and textured muslin. She likes that it lets you be a little “indecisive” in your washcloth shopping.

Best microfiber washcloth

Microfiber is Yerkes’s top choice for removing makeup. While it’s delicate on the skin, microfiber still holds up to stubborn makeup and can go through the wash without getting warped or altered. She recommends pairing a cloth with a creamy or milky cleanser that will “work well on breaking down all the debris and impurities without compromising your skin barrier.”

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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Body and Face Pack

Gently cleanse your skin using only water – no soap required! Super-soft, microfiber wash cloths provide a thorough clean and help eliminate products with harmful chemicals that you may be applying to your skin. Suitable for even the most sensitive, delicate and mature skin types – their versatility makes them perfect as part of your daily skin care routine. Proven effectiveness in practical applications, such as gently removing face paint from children’s faces.

Features BacLock®*, which protects the cloth by winning the fight against odor-causing bacteria in the cloth, helping it to stay fresher longer.

Includes 3 Body and Face Cloths.

Size: 32 cm x 32 cm / 12.6″ × 12.6”

*BacLock is an antimicrobial agent solely intended to protect and self-clean the cloth by inhibiting growth of odor-causing bacteria, mold and mildew.

Wet face and cleanse with a damp Body and Face Cloth.

For dry or sensitive skin, including skin around the eye area, wipe gently with a moist cloth.

For oily skin or for a deeper exfoliation, wring cloth well before using.

Rinse under warm water and use other side of cloth to continue cleansing face or body.

Microfiber Care Wash dirty cloths with a Norwex laundry detergent and avoid bleach, fabric softeners and dryer sheets.

Cleanses skin gently yet thoroughly with water only. Perfect for removing excess oils from skin.

Ultra-gentle microfiber is super soft on sensitive, delicate and/or mature skin.

When wet, BacLock®* goes to work to protect the cloth from odor-causing bacteria.

Beautiful on-trend colors complement every decor and coordinate perfectly with Norwex Hand and Bath Towels.

STANDARD 100 by OEKO -TEX® certified, this product and its components have been tested against a list of over 350 harmful substances and passed, enabling you to make responsible decisions for you and your family.

Typical soaps and cleansers can be harsh and drying to skin. This can be problematic for those with sensitive skin. Using a soft microfiber cloth with just water can help maintain the balance of delicate skin.

The tiny plastic microbeads in some facial cleansers are nonbiodegradable. In fact, several countries have now banned plastic microbeads.

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The Best Packable Travel Towels

By Ebony Roberts

We love a plush, thirsty bath towel , but a campsite or suitcase just isn’t the place for one—there, we want a quick-drying, packable travel towel.

After putting 20 such towels through 60 hours of testing—including an intense day of sand and surf at the beach—we’ve concluded the PackTowl Personal offers the best balance of drying time, packability, and odor resistance without compromising comfort and design.

A good option for nearly every towel-related scenario, it’s lightweight, extra-large, and supersoft, making it usable for both car camping and travel into the backcountry.

Everything we recommend

PackTowl Personal

The best packable camp towel.

Whether used for camping, hiking, traveling, or general outdoor adventuring, this towel is durable enough to handle extended abuse while remaining soft and comfortable.

Buying Options

With store pickup or REI membership (limited patterns)

(limited patterns)

Budget pick

Rainleaf Microfiber Towel

An inexpensive towel that gets the job done.

Good-enough absorbency and drying time for those on a budget.

PackTowl Luxe

A plush, comfortable towel.

Good for car camping, day trips, and hanging at the beach, this towel is made of an incredibly soft fabric that also repels dirt.

Scoring well in nearly every performance category, the PackTowl Personal towel consistently surprised us with its ability to handle the elements. It has an antibacterial treatment to help prevent odor, the “body” size (25 by 54 inches) is large enough to wrap around most folks, and it feels soft against the skin. It’s made of a tear-resistant fabric and was the best towel we tested at absorbing water and repelling dirt. Better still, sand from the beach remained on the towel’s surface so it was easy to shake off, leaving the towel clean after multiple uses. Its drying time was faster than most of the towels we tested and it packs down to a small size in a zippered breathable pouch, making it convenient for travel or camping.

The Rainleaf Microfiber Towel was nearly identical in design to many of the pricier models and scored just as well in our field tests. The only downsides are that its size large is smaller than most other large towels we tested, and it has lighter-feeling fabric. It didn’t handle our day at the beach quite as well and took a little longer to dry, but otherwise it’s comparable in comfort and packability. And, because it’s treated with an antibacterial coating—something not standard on budget (or even some pricey) towels—it passed our smell test with a perfect score. At just a fraction of the price of our top choice, it’s a good pick if you’re the kind of person who goes camping a few times a year and needs something affordable that works well.

If packing your towel down into a tiny space isn’t a concern for you, the PackTowl Luxe is about as comfortable as a towel can get. Although it does take up a bit more room and takes significantly longer to dry, its “body” size has the same dimensions as our top pick but has a plusher feel against the skin. Unlike similar big and luxurious camp towels, it didn’t smell after being put away wet. It absorbed water off the skin without trapping in the dirt and sand, which left it surprisingly clean for a towel with such a high pile. As it was easy to shake off, we enjoyed having it as a wrap and beach blanket, too.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: packtowl personal, how the packtowl has held up, flaws but not dealbreakers, an inexpensive towel that works fine: rainleaf microfiber towel, a plush, comfortable towel: packtowl luxe, microfibers and the environment, the competition, care and maintenance.

We spoke with three experts to get their takes on what we should look for in a good towel. Mark Knight, a product designer currently with Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) , has designed a number of outdoor products, including packable towels, and gave us a breakdown on what he considers to be important when creating products like these.

We spoke via email with Georgia Newsome, owner and operator of Coastal Bliss Adventures , who has worked as a backpacking, camping, and canoeing guide for the past 15 years.

And we spoke with Craig Oliver, product manager for health and safety at MEC. He was able to tell us what’s important from a consumer perspective. In addition to these interviews, we read a number of online reviews, pored over camping and backpacking forums, researched microfiber fabrics, and then selected and tested the towels we think cover most activities to determine which one was best overall.

Why doesn’t a regular, everyday cotton towel cut it for most outdoor activities? Knight offered us five reasons your cotton towel isn’t ideal: it’s too big, too heavy, might get damaged or stained, doesn’t get washed at the same frequency it would at home, therefore causing it to smell, and lastly, it’s not always used in the same manner as it would be at home. He added, “As a travel towel, there is also the added functional requirement of being quick-dry. When traveling, you can move around a lot, and a packed wet towel generally means a stinky towel.”

Packable towels are usually made from microfiber , although a few of the ones we tested are made from other materials (which didn’t end up performing as well). These materials are typically a blend of polyester and polyamide, aka nylon, and depending on the blend will produce a towel that feels more suede-like and slick to one that feels more plush like your average cotton towel. There are also packable towels made of nanofabric, which is composed of tiny nanoscopic fibers woven together—think the width of a human hair (or even smaller)—to create a fabric that is incredibly lightweight and small. Though they do the trick, nanofiber towels tend to have a slicker surface, which means they don’t feel much like the towel you’re used to.

According to Oliver, the most popular camp towel size is roughly equivalent to a standard household bath towel—about 26 by 52 inches after washing. Some towels were slightly smaller or larger, but we tried to stay within what would seem like regulation size for most people.

All the experts we talked to shared the opinion that the type of towel you’ll want to purchase depends on the activity you’re using it for. For backpacking or kayaking trips, Newsome told us that “lightweight, small packability and quick drying are the most important factors.” For car camping or other adventures, where weight isn’t an issue, she opts for a larger microfiber towel, and one with an antimicrobial coating, “which means for those longer road trips and tours this towel stays fresh smelling.” Knight’s opinion aligned with Newsome’s: “Some of the lightest towels don’t feel that great against your skin, but the weight means you will actually bring it in your backpack when on a long hike. If you are traveling around the world, weight might not be your primary concern, but comfort will factor highly, as you will be using the towel each day—unless you are a soap dodger ! So, a softer, slightly heavier towel may be the way to go.”

Just as important as how much water a towel can absorb—in other words, how well it dries you—is how well the towel dries after you’re dry. “Nobody wants to put a wet towel into their backpack,” Oliver said.

After surveying online reviews, forums, and user ratings, and asking people what type of towel they preferred for their own outdoor activities, we narrowed our field to 19 packable towels, then threw in a standard cotton towel as a plush baseline. We then tested the towels using seven criteria: price, comfort, design, wicking, drying time, odor resistance, and packability.

We washed and dried all of the towels, giving them all an equal starting point, then we scored them in each category. We didn’t score weight or size, but we did make note of whether these features made a difference when comparing similar options.

Comfort: This was a tough one because of the people we asked, some preferred a more textured fabric and others liked the smooth feel of the microsuede towels. We asked individuals to feel each towel against their skin, asked for their comments, and then asked what their overall top picks were.

Design: Here, we looked at how well the towel is made, and whether there were any particular features—good or bad—that made drying off more or less of a pleasure. Key among them was fabric quality, stitching, and what kind of hanging loop—essential!—the towel came with. We also looked at texture, an important attribute for both water absorption and grabbing dirt and grime, rather than just pushing it around. A too-slick towel won’t do much of anything except leave your skin feeling yucky and wet.

Wicking: One of the most important tests we conducted was how well the towel could wick away water and leave the skin feeling dry. When we took our test towels to the beach, we wanted to see how they performed against sandy salt water and whether they were able to clean the skin in addition to drying it.

Drying time: To determine which towel dried the fastest, we applied the same amount of water to each towel and then timed how long it took for them to dry. But how much water to use, and how dry is dry, exactly? We used 4 ounces of water, a quantity we settled on after having multiple testers shower and weigh their towels before and after use. Once the person was dry enough to feel comfortable putting their clothes on, we called that “dry.” We did this a couple of times with each person and used a couple types of cotton towels to get a base number. The average amount of water people removed from their bodies after showering was a ½ cup, or about 225 milliliters. We hung our entire assortment of high-tech, portable towels on the same line and recorded the time it took to leave each one dry to the touch.

Odor resistance: Another important criterion is how the towel smells after multiple uses. “An antimicrobial finish helps with odor management and decreases the frequency you need to wash the towel,” Knight told us. A towel may be used a dozen times before it gets properly washed, and if a towel smells musty or dirty after a couple of uses, it probably is. Many of the towels advertise a protective antibacterial coating and we wanted to see if these coatings actually made a difference.

Our test involved taking the towels to the beach, soaking them in 16 ounces of ocean water, wringing out the excess water as best as we could, and then placing each towel in a sealed plastic bag for 48 hours. After that, we opened the bags and took a whiff. Though most remained odor-free (especially those coated with an antimicrobial treatment), we were taken aback by how seriously a few of them reeked.

Packability: As important as drying you—and drying out—are, the other key thing a camp towel has to do is pack small for travel. Some towels came with cases, some didn’t. Our focus was simply how tiny a towel could get.

Price: More expensive doesn’t really seem like a good thing when it comes to something like a packable travel towel, given that there’s such a variance in price and that most towels pretty much claim to do the same thing.

The PackTowl Personal is our top choice because it handled every test we put it through. It’s the perfect option for nearly any outdoor activity that requires a towel. It’s large and durable while still being comfortable and comes with an antimicrobial treatment, which means it won’t smell after multiple uses. Its snap loop for hanging was one of the easiest to use, and the towel packs down to a small size, making it easy to travel with. Its drying time was comparable with that of the fastest-drying towels we tested, and it didn’t absorb dirt or sand into its fabric, an essential feature if you’re taking a towel into the backcountry.

Made of a soft microsuede, this towel was consistently chosen as a top pick by those we asked to rate its comfort. It is soft and light, but still has a bit of texture, so it doesn’t feel slick against your skin the way a nanofiber towel like the Matador NanoDry Shower Towel does. The PackTowl seems built to last, with a nicely seamed edge that should hold up over time. On top of feeling soft, it dried our skin much more readily than the non-microfiber towels we tested, like the Coleman or Outlier. It even dried a bit more quickly than other microfiber products in our test group. We were impressed by how well it repelled sand and dirt from being absorbed into its fabric. The sand that did stick to the towel was easy to shake off—which wasn’t the case of some of the other models we tested that looked like dirty rags after just a short time at the beach.

In our drying-time test, the PackTowl dried much faster than most, with the exception of the linen towel and the Biospired Footprint, which beat the PackTowl’s dry time by 30 minutes. (The towels we tested dried in a range from 1 hour, 45 minutes to nearly 4 hours.) We noticed that the towels with an additional antimicrobial coating took a little longer to dry. We think the extra odor protection is worth the few extra minutes of drying time. As the PackTowl dried, some water initially beaded on the surface, but was then absorbed, compared with towels that still had visible water beads after almost an hour of drying. (Beads of water were a good indication of extended drying times.) Water also dispersed evenly through the towel rather than leaving wet spots, which likely contributed to its fast drying time. We dried the towels in overcast conditions, and noticed that at just over 1 hour, 30 minutes the PackTowl was only minimally damp, and could be packed back into its carrying case if you were in a rush to pack up and go.

We tested the PackTowl’s “body” size, which weighed 6.7 ounces, fairly average compared with the other suede-type towels, and measured 25 by 54 inches, just shy of being the same size as our standard bath towel, and larger than many of the towels in our testing pool.

Wirecutter staffers have owned this towel for multiple seasons and it continues to hold up, with no loose threads or unraveled seams after use.

We didn’t love the PackTowl’s pouch: it doesn’t attach easily to a backpack, and the zipper seemed flimsy. But the pouch is made of breathable fabric, so it won’t trap moisture the way a plastic bag or pouch might. Although the PackTowl is antimicrobial, it did have the slightest ocean water odor to it after our 48-hour smell test, which is not something we noticed in previous tests.

Costing about half the price of our top pick, the Rainleaf Microfiber Towel is a great choice for those that don’t want to shell out almost $30 for a towel. A major bonus is that unlike most of the inexpensive towels we considered, this one actually comes with an antimicrobial treatment and passed the smell test after being sealed up wet for two days. It’s also comfortable, easy to dry off with, and just as packable as the PackTowl.

It didn’t dry quite as fast as our top pick and that may be due to the fact that some of the water beaded off and remained on the surface before being absorbed directly into the towel. The size we tested (L) is also slightly smaller than some of the pricier options but still big enough to wrap around the average person’s body.

Because it is so inexpensive, there’s the option of upgrading to the XL or XXL sizes for just a few bucks more and still have it come in well below price of most other towels. On top of that, it has a functional carrying pouch that is both breathable and easy to fasten onto a backpack so you can pack the towel damp and hang it to dry when it’s time to hit the road.

That said, though it did well drying our testers at the beach, it didn’t handle sand as well as our top pick, leaving a good amount behind on both their skin and the towel itself. If you’re a serious outdoor adventurer who’s going to be putting it to work against the elements, we recommend a towel that can handle gritty, sticky stuff a bit better.

If size and volume aren’t issues and you’re looking for something more soft and comfortable, the PackTowl Luxe performed the best of the plush cotton-like microfiber towels. Not only did it dry the quickest of these towels, it was good at removing sand from the skin and didn’t absorb dirt and mud into the fabric. It also didn’t have any odor after the smell test. A few of the other thicker towels we tested simply reeked—testers used the term “rotten fish”—after a couple days crunched into a ball, but not the Luxe.

If comfort is a primary concern, this towel feels much closer to cotton, avoiding the slick skin-feel common to many microsuedes and nanofibers. As we did with our pick, the PackTowl Personal, we tested the extra-large “Body” size. Also like our pick, at this size the Luxe is a few inches larger than the others we tested of the same type, measuring 25 by 54 inches, offering that extra little bit of coverage.

It does come with a carrying pouch, and though not as stylish or durable as the Sea to Summit Pocket Towel ’s silicone carrying case, it’s adequate for what it needs to do. We consider this towel a solid option for car camping and day trips, when taking up a little extra space won’t matter.

Although durable and light, there’s an environmental downside to microsynthetic fibers: Every time you wash that gear, small quantities of its fibers are shed, ending up in our waterways and oceans. (Here’s a study from the Bren School of Environmental Science & Management on the issue.) For more about the problem and some advice on combating it, see our article Your Laundry Sheds Harmful Microfibers. Here’s What You Can Do About It.

We tested a standard white bath towel—the Fieldcrest Luxury Solid Towel, which has since been discontinued—that was the same size as the majority of the towels we tested. It performed as expected: It was great at drying skin and was comfortable, but it didn’t pack down and had a bit of a funky smell after our odor test. Surprisingly, it didn’t take that much longer to dry than some of the plusher microfiber models we tested and actually outperformed a few of the towels that are marketed specifically for camping.

Biospired Footprint Towel: This had been our runner-up pick, but the size we tested has cycled in and out of stock. If you do happen to run across one, it’s still a good towel, though. We had also tested, and dismissed, the Biospired Endurance Camping & Fitness Towel and the Biospired Trek Pack Towel; for what it’s worth, those towels also tend to have stock problems.

Matador NanoDry Shower Towel : For backcountry campers and hikers that are concerned about weight, this is by far the lightest towel we tested (2.4 ounces). It performed well, but it is very thin and not as comfortable as the others. We decided it was too specialized to be best for most people.

Outlier Grid Linen Towel : Made of a natural linen fabric, this towel was the fastest-drying towel, and it performed well at the beach. But it doesn’t pack down very small, doesn’t come with a carrying case but rather a thick elastic band, and had a faint smell after our odor test. Those drawbacks made it hard to justify its high price.

Sunland Microfiber Towel  (currently unavailable): One of the least expensive microfiber towels, but no antimicrobial treatment and very average performance.

Sea to Summit DryLite Towel : One of the slowest to dry. Another note of caution, many online reviews have reported a problem with the cobalt blue dye running. We didn’t run into this problem, but we tested an orange towel, so it’s likely the issue is with only the darker-colored towels. Another drawback is that the carrying case comes with a Velcro closure, making it possible to snag the fabric when maneuvering the towel into and out of the case.

Shandali Yoga Travel Towel  (currently unavailable): Average performance, no carrying case, and though it does have a little loop for hanging to dry, most of the towels we tested had a loop with a snap, making them more versatile.

YogaRat SportLite Sport + Bath Towel  (currently unavailable): Though this towel did dry quite quickly and was resistant to odor during our 48-hour test, the lack of an antibacterial treatment gave us odor concerns for people taking it on longer trips. And with no carrying case and a snapless loop, this towel was a few steps below our top choices in convenience.

Sea to Summit Tek Towel : Sand stuck to the towel, leaving it quite dirty. Drying time was slow.

REI Co-op Multi Towel  (currently unavailable, but we're looking into a possible new version): Everything stuck to this towel: dryer lint, grass, sand, and dirt, and even though we tested a darker color, it looked dirty after our day at the beach. It also didn’t smell great after our odor test, and it took over four hours to dry.

Lightload Towel : Not really built to be used multiple times, this towel is made of an almost paperlike viscose material, and although very small, once unpackaged it can’t be squished down to its original size (although it does fit in a smaller Ziploc bag). It is incredibly large though, dried quickly, and would probably perform as an ad-hoc firestarter or outdoor survival tool (non-cleanliness-oriented usage scenarios suggested by the manufacturer). Whether being able to set the world on fire is a worthwhile trade-off with this towel’s lack of odor resistance—it was the worst performer in our stink trial—is something we hope we’ll never have to decide.

Coghlan’s Deluxe Camp Towel (currently unavailable): This is the classic outdoor towel that’s been around campsites for years. Some backcountry campers still prefer these towels because they’re small, lightweight, and cheap, but they didn’t perform as well as the microfiber towels that we tested. They dry very slowly, stink up easily, and don’t feel good against the skin.

Coleman Camp Towel  (currently unavailable): Similar in nearly every aspect to the Coghlan’s towel, just with slightly different dimensions—neither is big enough to really function as a full-body wrap—this model also had the drawbacks of rough fabric, odor retention, and delayed drying. (It appears to have been discontinued.)

Most packable towels are designed to repel dirt and bacteria, so they don’t need to be cleaned after every use. Excessive washing can also break down the fabric and any additional antimicrobial technology the towel might be treated with. So, wash only when dirty and don’t dry your towel on high heat unless absolutely necessary; way better to hang it when you can and let the air take care of it.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Nicholas J. Bruce, Niko L. Hartline, Stephanie N. Karba, Elizabeth O. Ruff, Shreya U. Sonar, and Patricia A. Holden, Microfiber Pollution and the Apparel Industry , Bren School of Environmental Science and Management , September 30, 2016

Mark Knight, product designer for Mountain Equipment Co-opand member of the Outdoor Industry Association , email interview , April 21, 2017

Georgia Newsome, owner and operator of Coastal Bliss Adventure and Kilimanjaro Bliss , email interview , March 31, 2017

Craig Oliver, product manager for health and safety at Mountain Equipment Co-op , phone interview , March 29, 2017

What Are The Coolest New Small Gear Companies? , Outside , January 15, 2016

Anne Trafton, Tiny particles may pose big risk , MIT News , April 8, 2014

Meet your guide

Ebony Roberts

Further reading

The Best Gear for Travel

by Wirecutter Staff

We put in another year and tens of thousands more miles of travel to test the best travel gear—and we stand by last year’s choices alongside a few new picks.

Essential Gear for Traveling Solo

by Ria Misra

Traveling solo is freeing but poses some unique challenges. Wirecutter’s picks help you travel comfortably and securely—and bring home great pictures too.

The Best Beach and Surf Gear: Towels, Totes, Coolers, and More

by Kit Dillon

After six years of relaxing in the sand and playing in the surf, we’ve chosen the best picks to help you enjoy a perfect beach day.

The Best Duffle Bags

After lugging 34 duffles through airports, to beaches, and on weekend trips, we chose seven bags that’ll carry what you need carried in a range of scenarios.

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The 9 Best Washcloths Of 2024

Washcloths are often overlooked, but they can make a big difference in your skincare routine.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks

The Bottom Line

• Tips for Choosing

Questions and Answers

Why trust southern living.

Southern Living / Alli Waataja

Whether you use them to bathe, remove makeup, or wash your face—washcloths are the unsung heroes of skincare. “As a dermatologist, I recommend that my patients use washcloths to clean their faces, with a proper facial cleanser that is tailored to their skin,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jeanine Downie of Image Dermatology. 

To help you select the best washcloth for your needs and skin type, we researched different types of washcloths and spoke with dermatologists to get their professional opinion on material, texture, size, and more.

Best Overall Washcloths

American soft linen turkish cotton washcloth set of 4.

  These soft and gentle cotton washcloths come with the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certification, so they’re safe from harmful substances.

While they are very absorbent, this also means they hold onto moisture for longer.

Soft and gentle cotton washcloths like these prevent your skin from becoming irritated. With this set, you get four washcloths that you can use to bathe, dry your face, or remove makeup. The washcloths come with the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certification , meaning they’ve been tested for harmful substances. The Turkish cotton material is extra soft against the skin, resistant to tearing, and absorbent. Just keep in mind that because of its absorbency, it can hold onto moisture for longer than other washcloths. Thus, we recommend hanging them to dry somewhere with good airflow and swapping them out regularly. The towels are machine washable for easy cleaning and come in over a dozen color options, so you’re sure to find a set to match your existing bath towels . You can even purchase a separate set in a darker color to be used exclusively for makeup removal in order to avoid makeup stains . 

Material: Turkish cotton | Dimensions: 13 x 13 inches | Colors: 15 | Certifications: Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex

Best Budget-Friendly Washcloths

Utopia towels cotton white washcloths set.

Two dozen washcloths come in this affordable set, so you can swap them out after every use to prevent bacteria growth.

Lighter colors are prone to discoloration from makeup and skincare products.

If you’re looking for an inexpensive set of washcloths that won’t irritate your skin, look no further. Whether you’re washing your face first thing in the morning or cleaning your face post-workout, you’ll always give your skin the soft treatment it needs. This set comes with 24 washcloths, allowing you to reach for a fresh one each day without having to constantly do the laundry. This is also a great purchase for someone who frequently has guests over at their home and needs plenty of clean washcloths to go around. While the washcloths are lightweight, you’ll still want to hang them to dry in good airflow if you plan to reuse them. To prevent discoloration, the manufacturer also advises not using the washcloths to remove any facial creams, cosmetics, or scrubs. However, we’d suggest purchasing a darker color should you want to use them to remove makeup. And even if they do get stained, at less than $1 per cloth, it’s not a huge loss. 

Material: Cotton | Dimensions: 12 x 12 inches | Colors: 23 | Certifications: Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex

Best Splurge-Worthy Washcloths

Brooklinen super-plush washcloths.

This plush and absorbent washcloth feels as soft and thick as your favorite blanket.

It only comes in a set of two.

If luxury is what you seek, these ultra-plush, heavyweight washcloths will make your daily skincare routine all the more spa-like. At a whopping 820 GSM (grams per square meter), these washcloths are as thick as they come. The long-staple Turkish cotton material gives them an extra soft and smooth feel, not to mention increased absorbency and durability. But to prevent the washcloth from collecting excess moisture, we do recommend hanging it up in between uses somewhere with good airflow. 

Like a number of the washcloths on our list, the Brooklinen Super-Plush washcloths come Standard 100 certified by Oeko-Tex. The set of two washcloths is available in a variety of colors to work with your existing bathroom color scheme. But given the price, we do wish the set included more than just two towels. Material: Turkish cotton | Dimensions: 13 x 13 inches | Colors: 7, plus limited-edition colors | Certifications: Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex

Best Turkish Cotton Washcloths

Southern living turkish cotton and modal bath towel.

The Turkish cotton material will grow softer over time.

It doesn’t come with any certifications.

Thanks to the Turkish cotton and modal blend, these washcloths are extremely soft and will only grow more so with each wash. At 700 GSM, this is a relatively thick cloth, though not quite as thick as the Brooklinen. As is always the case with a thicker cotton towel, you’ll need to allow it ample time to dry in between each use in a spot with good airflow. It comes in eight different colors, each with tonal border stripes for an elegant look. You can purchase the matching hand towels and bath towels from the Southern Living collection to complete the look. 

Material: Turkish cotton, modal | Dimensions: 13 x 13 inches | Colors: 8 | Certifications: N/A

Best Microfiber Washcloths

Sinland premium microfiber washcloth.

This quick-drying washcloth helps to cut down on bacteria growth and odors.

While soft, they do not have the plush, spa-like feel of cotton washcloths.

If you’re looking for a multi-purpose washcloth, then this is a great pick. This textured washcloth can be used to remove makeup, clean your face, and exfoliate your skin . The thin microfiber is moisture-wicking and quick-drying, making it the perfect towel to use for drying your face and hands. While these washcloths are quick to dry, we still recommend swapping them out regularly, since dirt, cosmetics, and other residue will remain trapped in the washcloth. And keep in mind that they won’t provide you with the plush, spa-like feel of cotton towels. But the woven texture provides a gentle exfoliation that aids in makeup removal and drying.

Material: Microfiber | Dimensions: 13 x 13 inches | Colors: Cream, grey brown, white | Certifications: N/A

Best Washcloths for Sensitive Skin

Jeffsun bamboo face washcloths pack.

The bamboo-rayon fiber is hypoallergenic.

They do not come with any certifications.

Made from hypoallergenic bamboo-rayon fiber, these soft and breathable washcloths are perfect for sensitive skin. The supple texture is gentle on the skin, making it great for use on the face. We also love that stains come right out in the wash, so you can use them to remove your makeup or exfoliating mask without worry. And they are quicker to dry than cotton towels, so they are less likely to breed bacteria. When it is time for a deep clean, all you have to do is toss them into the washing machine with similar colors. Material: Bamboo rayon | Dimensions: 13 x 13 inches | Colors: White, orange | Certifications: N/A

Best Washcloths for Makeup

Weezie makeup towels.

The navy blue hides makeup stains.

It’s not available in any other colors.

If you’re tired of makeup stains on your white washcloths, then this pair of navy blue washcloths is the perfect solution. Weezie’s makeup towels are hypoallergenic and certified Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex, so they’re safe for those with sensitive skin. Plus, with the soft organic cotton, these towels won’t feel rough on your skin either. They also make a great addition to a guest bedroom to prevent others from staining your towels. Choose from several different embroidered designs, or customize them with a name or phrase of your choosing (they make a great gift, too). Material: Organic cotton | Dimensions: 13 x 13 inches | Color: Navy blue | Certifications: Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex

Best Washcloths for Babies

Burt's bees baby washcloths.

These doubled-sided, certified-organic washcloths are gentle enough for babies.

Though absorbent, they are on the thinner side.

For those looking for the perfect baby shower gift, we highly recommend these washcloths designed with little ones in mind. Available in a variety of styles, each set comes with three washcloths. The super soft texture makes them perfect for use on a baby’s sensitive skin. As you gently pat their skin, the water will quickly be absorbed by the washcloth. The washcloths feature a soft and absorbent terry loop on one side and a smooth side on the other, both of which are made with GOTS-certified organic cotton that gets softer with each wash. And these washcloths are not limited to just babies—they’re great for anyone with sensitive skin. Material: Organic cotton | Dimensions: 9 x 9 inches | Colors: 9 | Certifications: Global Organic Textile Standard

Best Exfoliating Washcloths

Tatuo 5 pack exfoliating face and body wash cloths.

The texture helps to exfoliate skin.

This washcloth is not suitable for those with sensitive skin.

Exfoliating your skin helps to keep your pores unclogged and prevent breakouts. As you’re searching for the best exfoliating products to use, be sure to add this washcloth to your list. With its rough texture, this is the perfect washcloth to use for exfoliating your body (although we’d caution against using it on the face). And since it dries pretty quickly, you don’t have to worry about excess moisture staying on the washcloth for too long. And, thanks to the nylon material and reinforced edges, this is a very durable washcloth that can withstand frequent use. While this washcloth is suitable for those with normal skin, those with sensitive skin should refrain from using it. We make this recommendation because the rough texture may cause sensitive skin to become easily irritated. Besides this drawback, the nylon material will ensure that this washcloth lasts a long time.

Material: Nylon | Dimensions: 10.6 x 9 inches | Colors: 13 | Certifications: N/A

Our best overall pick is the American Soft Linen 100% Turkish Cotton Washcloth Set . These Turkish cotton towels are safe from harmful substances, gentle on the skin, and highly absorbent. For a more budget-friendly option, we recommend the Utopia Towels Cotton Washcloths Set . It comes with two dozen cotton washcloths for less than $1 a piece, so you can swap them out after every use.

Tips for Choosing the Right Washcloth 

From cotton to nylon, microfiber to bamboo, washcloths are made out of a variety of materials. Cotton washcloths are gentle on the skin but they will hold onto moisture for longer. And, while nylon washcloths dry faster, their rough edges make them less suitable to use for facial care. Microfiber is quick to dry and very moisture-wicking, but it doesn’t give you the plush feel of cotton. While each type of washcloth has different qualities, we suggest selecting one that aligns with your needs and skin type. Regardless of which material you choose, Dr. Joel L. Cohen of AboutSkin Dermatology and DermSurgery cautions against being too rough on your skin when using a washcloth: “...we just tell patients to avoid scrubbing too much—as some people are prone to getting areas of skin-thickening under the eyes (called lichenification) and others are more rash prone from continued irritation.” 

The washcloths on our list range in size from 9 by 9 inches to 13 by 13 inches. If you’re just using a washcloth for your face, a smaller one will help you to get into those hard-to-reach areas such as the side of your nose. When taking a shower or bath, we suggest using a larger one so you can quickly clean your body off. It’s also important to note that smaller washcloths dry faster than larger ones.   

When it comes to designing your bathroom, you should consider how washcloths affect the atmosphere of the room. Washcloths with pastel colors generally provide a calming feel while washcloths with bold colors make the bathroom seem more cluttered or busy. Instead of buying washcloths that match the color scheme of your bathroom, it’s better to go with ones that complement it. For example, if your bathroom has beige or gray colors, choose bright-colored washcloths such as red, orange, or yellow to give your bathroom a more stylish look. It's also important to note that you can easily see dirt or other residue on lighter washcloths. This can help you to know when it’s time to place them in the washer, but it also means they’re more prone to staining. Regardless of whether or not you can see the residue, Dr. Downie recommends changing your washcloth at least once every three days. 

How long do washcloths last?

“Quality washcloths last 3 to 4 years depending on individual use,” says Dr. Downie. How you care for your washcloth is going to be a big factor in how long it lasts. You should always make sure that you are following the manufacturer’s instructions so that you will know if it’s okay to throw your washcloth in the laundry machine or if it needs to be washed by hand. 

How often should you change your washcloth?

Dr. Downie recommends that you change your washcloth once every three days. However, depending on your lifestyle and skin type, you may have to change it more frequently. Those with acne-prone skin may consider using a fresh washcloth each day.

This article was written by Moriah Mason , a commerce writer for Southern Living who has over a year of experience writing lifestyle content. For this particular roundup, she spent hours researching different kinds of washcloths and reached out to board-certified dermatologists Dr. Jeanine B. Downie of Image Dermatology and Dr. Joel L. Cohen of AboutSkin Dermatology and DermSurgery.

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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25 Places to Visit in Moscow you Can’t Miss

25 Places to Visit in Moscow

Do you know what the most populous city in Europe is? Most people wouldn’t guess that it is actually Moscow. There are approximately 13 million people in the Moscow metro area, which amounts to approximately 1/10th of all Russians.

This former capitol of the Soviet Union is still the political and financial center of Russia. Just because it is a current business and government city, in no way means that it is boring and not worth a visit. Assuming the political tensions get solved, Moscow is a fascinating city you need to visit.

While lots of people can’t explain the nuances of Russian architecture, most can spot and appreciate it immediately. One of the best ways to see the historic sites is by taking a boat tour down the Moskva River that meanders through the city.

Overall, navigating the city isn’t difficult as there is phenomenal and cheap public transportation (roughly 30 rubles/35 cents per ride). You can also use a cheap Uber on the three ring roads that circle the city at various distances from the center.

Still wondering why you should visit this historic masterpiece of a city? Read on to see the top 25 things you need to see in Moscow.

The House with Animals

This former church is famous for the terracotta reliefs of animals that adorn the front of the building. It is a favorite of locals, and famous around the world. It was built in approximately 1900.

Resurrection Gate or Iberian Gate and Chapel

The Resurrection Gate is now one of the most common ways to enter Red Square. This gate is also the only standing part of the wall that was the entrance to to Kitai-Gorod, or Moscow’s historic central business district.

Book your tour: Moscow Kremlin Armory Chamber Entrance Ticket

St. Basils Cathedral

Probably the most famous of the Red Square attractions is St. Basil’s Cathedral. I don’t know if the legend is true or not, but supposedly Tsar Ivan IV poked the eyes of the architect out after completing it so nothing as pretty could be made again. What an awful boss!

Book your tour: Moscow: Saint Basil’s Cathedral and Red Square Private Tour

Book your tour: St.Basil’s Cathedral and Red Square: Private Tour and Ticket

The State Historical Museum

If you are like me then you can’t help but find all the twists and turns of Russian history fascinating. The State Historical Museum at Red Square is a fantastic place to learn and study the Russian Relics.

Book your tour: Kremlin, Red Square, and Metro Tour with Pick-Up

Moscow River Cruise

The Moskva River cuts directly through the heart of Moscow. Want to see it all but rest your feet? One of the best things to do in Moscow at night is float along on a dinner cruise . The lights of the city are so beautiful. Of course, dinner in included.

Book your tour: Night lights Moscow Cruise (with Dinner option)

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

This is one of the most unique things to do in Moscow. If you know that many American video games paint the Russians as the bad guys, then it’s probably not surprising to learn that you can find an entirely different variety of video games in Russia. This isn’t a recent phenomenon; even historically the video games were different. If you are a video game buff then this stop is for you!

Main Church of the Armed Forces in Park Patriot near Kubinka

This church attempts to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ as well as Russian military leader. Yes, it’s an awkward amalgamation. It caused quite a controversy when there were plans to create murals of Vladimir Putin and Joseph Stalin to go along with the ones of Jesus Christ (those plans were scrapped).

Bunker 42 (Cold War Museum)

Tunnel at Bunker-42, anti-nuclear underground facility built in 1956 as command post of strategic nuclear forces of Soviet Union.

Americans weren’t the only ones afraid during the Cold War! You can now discover the most secret and secure Bunker of the USSR, Bunker 42. Also known as the Cold War Museum . This former military communication center is now a museum. I recommend this tour that will take you on a private two hour visit of Bunker 42.

If you aren’t interested in a guided tour you can book your tickets in advance here.

Get your tickets: Bunker 42 Admission Ticket and Cold War Tour

Tank Excursion and Bazooka Shooting in Moscow

For real – you can book this tour and actually ride in a tank and shoot off military grade weapons. While that’s not my cup of tea, I know tons of guys would absolutely love to shoot a bazooka!

Book your tour here .

Dormition Cathedral

This is another Russian Orthodox cathedral that is located inside the Moscow Kremlin. It is another famous landmark of Moscow. The inside is decorated with ancient frescoes.

The Cathedral of the icon of the Mother of God “Sign”

This cathedral is located in Zaryadye Park (adjacent to Red Square). It is also on the Moskva River. The Cathedral of the icon of the Mother of God “Sign” previously was a monastery.

Komsomolskaya Metro station 

So many of the metro stations are breathtaking works of art. The idea was to create something beautiful that all the regular people could enjoy, or if you are more cynical you could say it was to attempt to show off how well they were doing.

Book your tour: Moscow: Small Group Metro Tour

The Round houses at Dovzhenko Stree t

The Round houses at Dovzhenko Street look super cool and futuristic, except like many communist projects didn’t actually work that well. They were supposed to be something new and different from the standard “Soviet Blocks.”

There are a number of problems with this design. Supposedly the acoustics are awful making the apartments perpetually noisy. The inner circle becomes a wind chamber even when it’s not that windy. My favorite weakness is that the trapezoid shape of apartments is hard to decorate and even harder to do maintenance on.

Izmailovo District and Izmailovo Kremlin

This area has to be one of the coolest places to visit in Moscow. It features a park in the middle of Moscow that is over 3x the size of New York City’s Central Park. The Kremlin in Izmailovo is a complex located in the Eastern Administrative District of Moscow that is known as the center of culture and entertainment. The wooden buildings are in Russian architecture of the XVI-XVII centuries (not original).

Izmailovo Kremlin on Google Maps .

Tretyakov Gallery

For those that appreciate fine art this is where you have to go. The State Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow Russia is the best collection of Russian fine art in the world. The museum previously hosted worldwide chess tournaments (I can’t help be think of the Queen’s Gambit).

Book your tickets in advance here. Tickets cost about $13 per person.

Kolomenskoe Estate

This reconstruction of a former royal estate is just a few miles southeast of the Moscow city center. Supposedly really detailed historical plans survived, so the reconstruction and current museum is incredibly authentic. It was completed in 2010.

Old buildings of Arbat

Arbat is an old street, and was previously the “nicest place to live in Moscow. Even though it fell into disrepair, it’s location, it’s historical buildings, and the fact that it is a pedestrian street are quickly making it a top place to live again.

The Melnikov House

Located on Arbat street, the Famous house of architect Melnikov designed this house (and Lenin’s sarcophagus). Melnikov designed it at a time when private ownership was outlawed, but got around this restriction by saying it was an experimental design to maximize space. Even though others weren’t built, he was able to keep it.

The New Maiden Convent

The New Maiden Convent, built was built to resemble a mini-Kremlin. It stands out to me because this “convent” was the place where women who were no longer welcome in the royal court were banished to.

Monument to the Conquerors of Space at the Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics in the Cosmopark

The Americans may have made it to the moon first, but the Russian cosmonauts were first in a number of other achievements. This gigantic obelisk pays homage to their accomplishments.

Tsaritsyno Museum Reserve

This royal estate was founded by Catherine the Great. She was Russia’s longest serving female leader. It is now a gorgeous museum!

Stalinist Skyscraper tour

This group of seven skyscrapers are called the Seven Sisters. They were all made in the Stalinist style, and one was previously the tallest building in Europe. If you want to tour them all while learning about their history book here .

Cathedral of Christ the Savior

It’s ironic that a country that was so anti-religion for so long has so many great churches. The Cathedral for Christ the Savior was made to thank Jesus for saving Russia. If you are interested in visiting this and so many other cathedrals in Moscow I recommend this tour that will take you to The Cathedral of Christ the Savior many other popular churches in Moscow.

Cathedral of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God

This church on Red Square is reconstruction of what was previously there but ordered to be destroy by Joseph Stalin. It is a travesty thinking of all the beautiful things that Stalin destroyed to attempt to implement his vision.

Zaryade Park

Zaryadye Park is one of the main tourist attractions in Moscow. It is located directly next to the Kremlin, and offers truly amazing views. It is also famous for its “floating bridge” and the fact that there are so many unique features underneath it.

Church of Sign of Blessed Virgin in Dubrovitsy Znamenskaya

The Church of the Theotokos of the Sign (Dubrovitsy), or The Church of the Holy Sign of the Mother of God is located in a village amed Dubrovitsy about 20 miles south of Moscow. It is another Russian Orthodox church, but what makes this one unique is that we aren’t 100% sure who made it, or why is has a style that is completely different than other churches of the time.

The Church of Nicholas The Wonderworker

I love the unique style of the Russian Orthodox churches in Moscow. The golden onion domes stand out across the globe. This church dates back to 1657, though it has been partially destroyed a few times since then.

Moscow University

Moscow University is one of the Seven Sisters that are the “Stalin Skyscrapers.” Previously it was the tallest building in Europe. Though it has lost that title, it is still the tallest “educational building” in the world.

So what do you think? Next trip to Moscow?

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.