Textiles · Various regions

Hammam Towel (Fouta / Pestemal)

Flat-woven cotton towels traditionally used in the hammam. Thin, fast-drying, and versatile — used as towels, beach wraps, scarves, or tablecloths.

History & Cultural Context

Fouta towels have been part of hammam culture for centuries across North Africa and the Ottoman world. Moroccan foutas tend to be striped in earth tones or bright colors. Their flat-weave construction makes them lighter and faster-drying than terry cloth.

Materials

CottonFlat-woven cotton in various weights

Production Techniques

Flat-weave loomingTraditional
Tightly woven on hand or power looms for a thin, dense fabric

Production Notes

Hand-loomed or machine-loomed from cotton. Traditional versions have hand-twisted fringes. Higher-end pieces use extra-long staple cotton for softness. Machine wash safe.

Quality Indicators

Authenticity

Hand-twisted fringe

Quality

Soft hand-feel that improves with washing

Price Ranges

Budget30 – 80 MAD(~$3 – $8)

Machine-loomed, basic stripes

Mid-range80 – 200 MAD(~$8 – $20)

Hand-loomed, quality cotton, hand-twisted fringe

Premium200 – 400 MAD(~$20 – $40)

Premium cotton, elaborate weave patterns, sets