A robe can be a relaxing way to wind down your day. Robes can also be a thoughtful gift or party favor idea for a DIY spa day with friends, but choosing the right one can be difficult. To help you navigate your options, we researched a variety of robes and poured over hundreds of online reviews to find the best robes in various categories. We looked at each robe’s material, durability, design, absorbency, style, and more to come up with our list of the best robes. Our top pick is the Parachute Classic Turkish Cotton Robe because of its classic design and super soft cotton. Backed by our research and hundreds of reviews, here are the 13 best robes.
Soft textureClassic designDeep pocketsLuxurious feel
ExpensiveA little heavy for some
Created by a brand already known for its luxurious sheets and dedication to comfort, this 100% long-staple Turkish cotton robe is the best choice for relaxing and lounging about. It was inspired by traditional bath towels and has a soft, absorbent texture that does the job of both a towel and a robe. Available in five subdued shades with a wrap front and double belt loops, its design gives off a classic feel. The pockets are spacious enough to comfortably fit your hands, and its cozy shawl collar will keep your neck warm on chilly days when you have to step outside to check the mail. Keep in mind that its weight might be heavy for some during the summer months. Take the “robe quiz” on the Parachute website to find the right size and see if this material is for you. Price at time of publish: $109 Material: Turkish cotton | Sizes Offered: XS–3X | Length: Shin | Care Instructions: Machine wash
AbsorbentQuick dryingEasy to clean
Unisex design may be unflattering
While some cotton robes can feel bulky or heavy, this 100% terry cotton robe is lightweight, breathable, offers excellent absorbency, and dries super fast. Plus, it’s easy to wash and can be thrown in the laundry with the rest of your towels. We caution that its unisex sizing could be ill-fitting for some. Price at time of publish: $54 Material: Cotton | Sizes Offered: S/M, M/L, L/XL | Length: Shin | Care Instructions: Machine wash and dry with low heat
Machine washable Thermoregulating to maintain body temperatureElastic cuffsThere’s a matching pajama set
What sets this robe apart from all others is not just its velvety soft silk, washable fabric, or the fact that it’s thermoregulating (meaning it keeps your body temperature comfortable). Our favorite feature is the unique, thick band of elastic on each cuff, which allows you to easily push up a sleeve to wash a dish or brush your teeth without getting your sleeves wet. If your budget allows, we recommend grabbing up the ultimate choice in self-care, the Lunya Washable Silk Bestsellers Kit, which includes matching silk pajamas and a mask, in colors with decadent names like “ground cinnamon,” “lolling blue,” and “otium tan.” Pro tip: There is a discount offered for purchasing the items together as a kit, and limited-edition colors are available from time to time. Price at time of publish: $278 Material: 100% mulberry silk | Sizes Offered: XS/S, M, L/XL for robe | Length: Mid-thigh | Care Instructions: Hand or machine wash cold
Ultrasoft cottonDurable Not bulkyPersonalized options available
Women’s version only available only in fall and winter; men’s version available year-round
We recommend this flannel over others because it is as relaxed and cozy as your favorite sweatshirt, but it’s lightweight. Plus, its sleeves fit closer to the body without feeling bulky or slouchy under the armpits, allowing for a more tailored look. This robe is built to last with incredibly durable cotton that washes easily without a lot of bleeding colors, pilling, or pulling. Five classic plaid combinations are available for women and eight are available for men. With personalization available, this might be the best robe for gifting. Keep in mind that the women’s versions are only available in the fall and winter, whereas the men’s are available year-round. Price at time of publish: $89 Material: Cotton | Sizes Offered: Regular, petite, plus; XS–XL | Length: Calf | Care Instructions: Machine wash and dry
Soft and lightweightHighly absorbent and fast-dryingAdjustable cuffs, pockets, tie waistLuxurious feel
May shrink in washRuns big
This waffle weave does not allow it to be teddy-bear soft, but it has been described as “weightless to wear” and “ideal for post-shower lounging” because it absorbs water in seconds with a sweater-like softness. The company says that the robe’s “weave will deepen and compress post-wash,” which will help make it feel broken in. With four main colors and five more that are limited edition, there’s a color option for everyone. We love that the tie stays put once cinched, and the large side pockets are handy for carrying around small objects. As was the case with the Lunya robe, our favorite feature is the adjustable cuff since it’s an uncommon but highly useful design. This feature makes up for the fact that the robe is very generously sized—perhaps even too big for petite wearers who may feel overwhelmed by its roominess. Price at time of publish: $99 Material: Turkish cotton | Sizes Offered: XS–XL | Length: Shin | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold and tumble dry low
Super softSustainably manufacturedLuxury feel at a relatively low cost for cashmere
Hand wash or dry clean only
At a price point of $170, its high-quality cashmere isn’t exactly affordable, but if you’re building a capsule wardrobe filled with easy-to-wear, neutral-toned, and minimalist designs, this robe will become a staple. Brought to you by the company that promises “radically low prices” for items that are on par or even better than designer goods, Quince nailed it with this 100% Mongolian cashmere that feels decadently soft and is made to last. The cashmere is described as “wool’s close cousin with a finer, softer and warmer DNA,” which means it can be worn throughout the year, in both warmer and cooler climates. Keep in mind that you can’t dump this in a load of laundry and machine wash. You’ll have to hand wash it in cold water with a neutral soap or dry clean it, making sure you request that they use a delicate detergent. Price at time of publish: $170 Material: 100% Mongolian cashmere | Sizes Offered: Small, medium, large | Length: Shin | Care Instructions: Dry clean or hand wash
Incredibly softQuick drying and absorbentEmbroidered monogramSizing chart pinpoints best fit
Only available in white
This is the best robe for those who like to unwind after a long day with extraordinarily soft and plush textiles like the stark white ones found in luxurious hotels—and who don’t mind taking extra care to wash it. To keep its snowy color, you can wash it in the machine and tumble dry on low but do not use bleach. The shin-length robe has a relaxed fit made for lounging, and there are two sizes available (small/medium and large/extra large). You can also treat yourself to customization by adding a monogram for $12.50. This robe also makes for a stellar personalized gift. Price at time of publish: $100 Material: Turkish cotton | Sizes Offered: XS/S and M/L | Length: Shin | Care Instructions: Machine wash and tumble dry low
Super softFun characters to choose fromAvailable for little kids and kidsStitched-down, never-lose belt
The high-pile polyester fleece is soft and plush, and it’s easy to machine wash and dry. The playful hood makes it the best robe to keep kids extra warm—and the pockets are not only a great place to stash a snack, but they also keep fingers nice and warm. Caretakers will love that the belt is stitched down in the back, so it can’t ever be lost in the shuffle, avoiding any chance of a meltdown. We do wish it was a bit more absorbent. Price at time of publish: $55 Material: Polyester fleece | Sizes Offered: 4–18 | Length: Shin | Care Instructions: Machine wash and dry
Breathable fabricClassic design Piping adds sophisticationOffered in rich colors
Only two color options
Design-wise, it is the best robe for someone who prefers a classic look, whether you choose the dark red, navy, or spend a bit extra to purchase the robe in navy and white pinstripe. The contrasting piping and embroidery on the sleeve add a bit of sophistication. We love that the collection is no-fuss. You can easily throw the robe in the wash without risk of fading because it is yarn-dyed, which ensures all the color is deposited in all the nooks and crannies. The only downside is it’s only available in two colors, so you may not be able to purchase it in your favorite hue. Price at time of publish: $118 Material: Pima cotton | Sizes Offered: S/M and L/XL | Length: Knee | Care Instructions: Machine wash
Spandex allows easy body movementCan be personalizedAvailable in five colors
Shipping takes eight to 10 weeks
The robe whispers romance in the way the collar effortlessly falls over the decollete, and the hem gently graces the top of the knee. The eco-cotton and French terry blend fabric is soft on the skin, with Spandex added to provide a little elasticity for comfort before the corset. Choose an elegant font and have the bride’s initials and the wedding date embroidered to create a personalized and downright unforgettable gift—one that will be a cherished keepsake. But make sure to plan ahead; shipping takes anywhere from eight to 10 weeks. Price at time of publish: $88 Material: Polyester, cotton, Spandex | Sizes Offered: XXS–XXL | Length: Above knee | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold
Machine washableStunning designs inspired by artSilky feelFemale-owned company
The magic of these gracefully lightweight, hand-painted silk kimonos created by artisans in China is in how they present full-on whimsy all the way down to the floor. While shopping, don’t worry about the one-size only option because the kimono-style sleeves have no seams, and the robe will drape to fit many sizes perfectly. With a choice of eight colors and patterns, the hardest part will be narrowing your selection down to one. Price at time of publish: $298 Material: Silk | Sizes Offered: One size | Length: Full-length (52 inches) | Care Instructions: Machine wash
Buttery-soft, cozy cottonRelaxed cutBlanket-like feelContrasting collar looks expensive
If you’re one to pad around doing chores on the weekend, its short length will prevent you from getting too hot or tripping. While it’s slightly bulky in the waist, it’s more relaxed in the sleeves, allowing you to move freely. If you spill a little coffee on it, you can simply toss it in the machine to wash then tumble dry. A small-yet-mighty detail is that the seaming on the inside lays flat and the lining is soft, so it feels smooth against the skin for those mornings when you decide not to wear pajamas underneath. Plus, you can pair this robe with your favorite pair of Ugg slippers to complete the look. Price at time of publish: From $80 Material: Cotton, elastane, polyester | Sizes Offered: XS–XL | Length: Knee | Care Instructions: Machine wash and tumble dry
Superb softnessWide-hemmed cuffsCoordinating slippers available
Can leave lint behind
This robe is affordable, comes in a plethora of colors and designs, has the widest range of sizes of the robes on this list, and features a plush hood. It might just be the key to surviving a blustery winter. If you are looking for a slouchy, relaxed, and comfortable robe, this robe is the best robe for you. Described as similar to wearing a thick fleece throw, it is sure to keep you warm through the coldest of winter nights. Keep in mind that many fleece fabrics are not colorfast and can leave a lot of lint behind. You’ll want to fully wash this robe by itself on gentle cycle, then dry on low heat before washing it with other items. Price at time of publish: From $33 Material: Polyester | Sizes offered: XS–6X | Length: Ankle | Care Instructions: Machine wash in cold water on gentle cycle and tumble dry Fashion expert Kelly Helfman says to start by thinking about how you will wear and use your robe. Consider what feels best, when you will wear it, how often, and during what time of year. “When shopping for a robe, it is key to consider the material and your personal choice to give you the best comforting experience,” she says. “My personal choice is to have three essential robes used throughout your year.” After our research, the Parachute Classic Turkish Cotton Robe won the overall prize of best robe because of its classic design and supersoft cotton.
What to Know About Robes Before Shopping
When beginning the process of selecting the best robe for your lifestyle, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.
Material
Material is essential when investing in the best robe for you. Both budget and splurge options come in all sorts of fabrics, like polyester, fleece, cotton, silk, and more, but they are not all created equal. Some fabrics are better than others when it comes to things like affordability, breathability, and ease of care. Others determine longevity and resistance to abrasion, wear, and tear. How often you use the robe and what you use it for will be determined by the material. Cotton, for example, breathes well and is longer lasting, whereas silk is better for more decadent tastes but may be incredibly high maintenance. Other materials, like fleece and polyester, may not breathe as well as others, but they do a better job than silk and satin of keeping you warm, which may be a topic of consideration if you live in a climate with severe winters or are sensitive to the cold.
Length
An important, yet often overlooked, factor to consider when narrowing down your choices is the length of the robe. This decision ultimately comes down to preference. Robes are available in lengths from just above the knee down to the ankle. To complicate matters more, it depends on the person wearing the robe, which can make gifting one a little trickier. Traditionally, a more feminine-fitting robe will hit mid-thigh to shin, whereas a more masculine fit will hit mid-calf or at the ankle. Inevitably, however, the decision is based entirely on individual preference.
Care Instructions
First and foremost, you should always follow the specific care instructions that come with your robe to keep them fluffy, absorbent, and in good condition. But there are a few general guidelines to follow. Before use, cotton robes should be machine washed and tumble dried—but be careful to not overdry. Use only mild detergents to keep cotton fluffy, which will help maintain absorbency. Fabric softener and hot water should be avoided. It’s safe to trim any loops in the fabric. Although silk can seem intimidating, it’s not as scary as it seems to wash. Hand washing is advised——even if the label says it’s machine washable—to maintain its luster and smooth texture. Avoid using bleach and drying in the sun. Think twice about using products with alcohol in them, like perfume and hairspray, when wearing the robe because alcohol can damage silk.
Your Questions, Answered
What is the best way to tie a robe?
There are two ways to think about tying a robe. One is based on function, the other on style. If it’s most important for a robe to not come undone, Helfman advises to start with each piece hanging flat, pulling the left tie over the right and through the loop toward your body, then pulling on the ends to make sure they are tight. “You essentially want to double knot it,” she says. “Because the material is thick on these ties, there is no risk of getting that knot too tight to the point of not being able to get it undone.” According to New York designer Carlton Jones, there is an art to the tying of your robe. “I think robes should be tied ¾ to either side,” he says. He also favors a half bow or loose knot over a full bow.
How often should you wash your robe
Both experts agree that washing your robe correctly depends on the type of material and its use. “Washing a robe really depends on the fabric, how often it’s worn, and what activities are done in the robe,” Jones says. “It’s most important to follow the care instructions of the robe.” Helfman notes that it is encouraged at hotels and homes to reuse towels and robes to avoid excessive water consumption, so washing once a week is best. “If you are in a terry cloth or cotton robe that is getting wet often, the last thing you want is for it to not fully dry day-to-day, creating a mildew-like stench.” Washing your robe once a week will keep it fresh.
Where should you hang your robe?
You should hang your robe in a location that is easily accessible so you always have it at arms’ length. Hang your robe in a dry area with plenty of air flow to avoid trapping moisture in the fabric. This is typically in a bedroom, dressing room, or bathroom at a safe distance from the shower or bath.
Who We Are
Belle DuChene is an award-winning digital content producer and stylist who is often seen in Better Homes & Gardens home and garden videos. She is the agency director of a micro-influencer talent agency and teaches strategic digital communications at three colleges and universities. For this article, Belle researched a variety of robes, looking at material, design, length, care, and more to pick the best robes. She also consulted Kelly Helfman, a fashion business executive at Informa Markets, and Carlton Jones, a New York-based style and fashion director, for their expertise.
