What is GSM?
How to calculate towel GSM from weight per dozen. Let's start with GSM, which is short for grams per square meter. All fabrics have a weight, and the standard measurement for the weight and quality of fabrics (including towels) is grams per square meter. This number refers to the density of the towel. High quality wholesale towels are generally heavier and are more absorbent.
How GSM Determines the Quality of your Towel
GSM (grams per square meter) measurement is an important factor in determining the quality and performance of towels. GSM is simply the density of the fabric, specifically the weight of the towel per unit area, usually expressed in grams per square meter. Understanding how GSM affects the quality of a towel can help consumers make informed decisions when selecting towels for their homes or businesses.
GSM directly correlates with the thickness and plushness of the towel. Higher GSM values indicate a denser and more substantial fabric, resulting in a thicker and more luxurious towel. Towels with higher GSM are often preferred for their superior absorbency and softness, providing a plush and comfortable feel against the skin. These towels are especially desirable for bath towels and bath sheets, where comfort and absorbency are paramount.
Lower GSM values signify a lighter and less dense fabric, resulting in a thinner and more lightweight towel. Towels with lower GSM may be suitable for specific purposes, such as gym towels or kitchen towels, where quick drying and portability are more important than plushness. However, lower GSM towels may sacrifice some absorbency and durability compared to their higher GSM counterparts.
GSM plays a big role in determining the durability and longevity of a towel. Higher GSM towels tend to be more durable and long-lasting due to their denser construction and higher thread count. The added weight and thickness provide structural integrity, making these towels resistant to wear and tear, fraying, and stretching over time. As a result, towels with higher GSM values often retain their quality and appearance even after repeated use and laundering.
In addition to thickness and durability, GSM also influences the absorbency and drying time of towels. Higher GSM towels typically have greater absorbent capacity, allowing them to quickly and effectively soak up moisture from the skin or surfaces. This enhanced absorbency is particularly beneficial for bath towels and bath sheets, where the primary function is to dry the body efficiently. Conversely, lower GSM towels may require more passes to absorb moisture fully, resulting in a longer drying time.
Moreover, GSM can impact the overall feel and texture of the towel. Higher GSM towels tend to have a softer and more plush texture, providing a luxurious sensory experience. This plushness is desirable for bath towels, where comfort and indulgence are valued. On the other hand, lower GSM towels may have a lighter and less substantial feel, which may be preferable for certain applications where weight and bulk are considerations.
In conclusion, GSM is a critical factor that influences the quality, performance, and characteristics of towels. By understanding how GSM affects thickness, durability, absorbency, drying time, and texture, consumers can make informed choices when selecting towels that best suit their needs and preferences. Whether opting for plush and luxurious bath towels or lightweight and quick-drying gym towels, the GSM measurement provides valuable insight into the quality and functionality of towels for various purposes.
Wholesale Towels can vary anywhere between 300 GSM and 900 GSM. The lower the number, the lighter and thinner the towel. For instance:
300-400 GSM – In this weight, as noted, the towels are lighter and thinner. But, depending on its use, you might want a lower GSM for the gym towel or a kitchen towel, or economy towel. A lightweight, quicker-drying beach towel might be around 350 GSM, for instance.
400-600 GSM – This is a medium weight. This weight is great for beach towels, bath towels, guest towels. Each consecutive gram weight –400, 500, 600– gets a little heavier, and a little more absorbent.
600-900 GSM – This is a premium, luxury weight. The towel will be denser, heavier, more absorbent. It will probably take a little longer to dry.
Other factors that will influence the towel’s softness and absorbency are: type of cotton, regular cotton or ringspun cotton. Or whether the manufacturer uses a polyester blend, whether the cotton is a single or double loop, 10s (10 Singles), or 16s (16 Singles).
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Here’s a chart that shows the conversion of pounds per dozen to grams per square meter (GSM) for towels:
As you can see from these examples, there is no direct conversion between GSM and pounds; the total weight of the towel is actually the product of the GSM and the towel’s dimensions.
Convert Weight per Dozen to GSM
Calculate Towel GSM from Weight per Dozen. The standard measurement for weight and quality of fabrics is grams per square meter (GSM). This is the accepted standard in the United States as well as in foreign countries. However, many towels in the US are rated by weight per dozen. Towels and bath robes typically vary from 300 to 800 GSM; other fabrics may have values as low as 100 GSM. The reason grams per square meter is used so widely is that it is a more accurate indicator of quality than pounds.
Let’s compare, for example, two towels both weighing 18.0 lbs per dozen.
Determine the lbs of the towel(s):
In Pounds that is 18 lbs ÷ 12 (dozen) = 1.5 lbs per Towel, or
Determine the grams of the towel(s):
1.5 lbs per towel x conversion factor of 453.59237 = 680.89 grams per towel
Towel A: weighs 1.5 pounds (680 grams) and measures 27” width by 54” length.
Convert inches to meters by multiply the conversion factor by the inches:
27” x .0254 (inches to meters conversion Factor) = .6858 meters
54” x .0254 (inches to meters conversion Factor) = 1.3716 meters
Determine Total Surface Area in Square Meters by multiplying the length and width in meters.
.6858 meters x 1.3716 meters = .941 square meters
GSM will equal the grams ÷ the square meter
680 Grams ÷ .941 square meters = 723 GSM
Towel B: Also weighs 1.5 pounds (680 grams) but is larger and measures 30” length by 60” width.
Convert inches to meters by multiply the conversion factor by the inches
30” x .0254 (inches to meters conversion Factor) = .7620 meters
60” x .0254 (inches to meters conversion Factor) = 1.5340 meters
Determine Total Surface Area in Square Meters by multiplying the length and width in meters.
.7620 meters x 1.5240 meters = 1.161 square meters
GSM will equal the grams ÷ the square meter
680 Grams ÷ 1.161 square meters = 586 GSM
Towel B is only 586 GSM—nice but not nearly as plush as Towel A @ 723 GSM
As you can see from these examples, there is no direct conversion between GSM and pounds; the total weight of the towel is actually the product of the GSM and the towel’s dimensions. Now that you know how to Calculate Towel GSM from Weight per Dozen, browse Direct Textile Store's wholesale towel collection to find the perfect towel for you!
Direct Textile Store ships to all US states, including Alaska and Hawaii, US Territories, Canada, Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, and St. Croix.
Kelsi Kleven
Editor
Merchandising Specialist
If you need assistance, contact Direct Textile Store Customer Service at 800-615-5822
