Turkish bath or hammam culture is the perfect meld of centuries of tradition and cleansing rituals steeped in holistic wellness. It is a sensory journey that has to be experienced to be fully appreciated. No hammam session is complete without the traditional Turkish bath towel or a Pestemal. Light, soft, and absorbent, a pestemal towel carries the fascinating history of Turkish artisanal heritage.
Many people wonder, What does 'pestemal' mean? The word pestemal is of Persian background. It is a blend of two words, “puşt” (the Persian word for back) and “mal” (to rub or to wipe). So if translated literally, a pestemal is something to rub or wipe one's back. The Turkish pestemal has been a part of the hammam culture since Ottoman times. It was used not only to cover the body while inside the bathhouse but also as a way to dry off the skin in luxury.
As the hammam culture has evolved, so has the Turkish pestemal towel. Its use is no longer limited to hammam-related rituals. A pestemal, apart from its traditional purpose, may also be used as:
You can take the aura of a traditional Turkish hammam to your spa session by using a pestemal towel. Not only is it spacious and soft, but it is also the right size to elevate your spa experience to perfection.
A Turkish pestemal towel is lightweight, chic, soft, absorbent, and much more compact than a traditional beach towel. You don’t even have to worry about sand as it shakes right off.
Due to its traditional hues and designs, a pestemal can easily be used as a beach wrap or sarong.
A Turkish pestemal is one of the oldest fabrics in the world. Traditional pestemals are made of 100% cotton. They are available in eye-catching colors and designs and can be used as decorative throws or even blankets.
Bored with your regular yoga mat? Add to your yoga experience by using a pestemal towel instead. It is soft, eco-friendly, and easily portable.
If you are wondering what is a pestemal for, while traveling, it is the perfect travel companion thanks to its lightweight and versatile nature. Whether you are staying at a hotel, hostel, or backpacking, you can’t go wrong with a Turkish pestemal towel.
A pestemal towel makes for an excellent gift to take back home after you travel through Turkey.
The best way to experience the versatility of Turkish pestemal towels in a traditional setting during your Turkish vacation is by visiting the Hurrem Sultan Hammam in Istanbul. It’s a unique blend of historic tradition and modern luxury, designed for ultimate relaxation in a single setting.
Turkish pestemal towels are a versatile product with a plethora of uses. A pestemal hammam towel is the best alternative to traditional towels, because it is:
Pestemal towels are available in many ethnic and eye-catching designs, and unlike regular towels, they soften over time.
Those who want to experience the Turkish hammam culture may wonder how to tie a pestemal in a Turkish bath. There are several ways to wear a pestemal towel. The traditional way to wear a pestemal towel differs slightly between men and women.
The traditional way of tying a pestemal for men focuses on comfort and ease. It is tied around the waist to cover the lower body or secured at the waist. There is the option of choosing a thicker pestemal towel for those who want more coverage.
The traditional way to wear a pestemal hammam towel for women aims to blend comfort and modesty. It is tied above the chest, similar to tying a regular bath towel. It can be adjusted up or down based on individual preferences. Women have the choice of thicker or thinner pastemal towels, depending on the level of coverage they may want.
Even if you are unsure of the correct manner or way to wear a traditional pestemal towel while visiting a traditional Turkish hammam, the professional staff at the Hurrem Sultan Hammam is always at hand to guide and assist you every step of the way. Guests are provided with extra pestemal towels for drying purposes.
In traditional Turkish baths, the pestemal was worn to provide both modesty and comfort during the bathing ritual. However, these days guests may choose to wear briefs, bikinis, or disposable underwear beneath a pestemal in a Turkish bath. It is also common to secure the pestemal towel by tying a knot or a safety pin, if simply tucking it inwards may not feel comfortable.
A pestemal towel is reminiscent of a bygone era when bathhouses and hammams were the only means of cleansing and relaxation. Today, you can experience this authentic Ottoman tradition firsthand at the Hurrem Sultan Hammam in Istanbul.
