
We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.
We updated this article in December 2022 to ensure all of our top picks tested by the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab were in stock and reflect current pricing.
Dry off with a bath towel post-shower, but then wrap yourself up in a robe for ultimate coziness. It's especially convenient when you’re not ready to get dressed or put on your pajamas (especially if someone's at the door!). A bathrobe will keep you cozy, covered and it won't fall down like a traditional towel does. Plus, it gives you that lounging-at-a-spa feel right at home.
Whether you like cozy fleece, elegant silk or a plush terry robe to dry off, the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab found the best robes from top-tested towel brands as well as styles with rave online reviews. As many bathrobes are made with the same material as a brand's towels, GH analysts test towels in the Lab for ease of laundering, absorbency, drying time and shrinkage after laundering. Consumer testers also wore some of these styles to give feedback on softness, comfort, fit and more.
Our top picks:
Learn more about our top picks, plus our testing methods and experts' top bathrobe shopping tips.
Pros
Extremely absorbent
Cozy to wear
Pairs perfectly with the brand's top tested towels
Cons
Some shrinkage after laundering
GH analysts were extremely impressed with Brooklinen's Super Plush Towels as they're one of the thickest styles we tested. The robe is made with the same cotton terrycloth that's perfect to throw on right out of the shower. With a nearly perfect softness score, testers were impressed with its plush feel that proved to be extremely absorbent in Lab evaluations. However, the material did show a bit of shrinkage and wear after laundering. One tester especially liked the length of this robe as it "didn't drag on the floor."
Material | 100% Turkish cotton |
---|---|
Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL |
Pros
Short length
Easy hang tab
Over 1,000 Amazon reviews
Cons
Limited sizing
While most of the featured robes are at least $100, this affordable robe from Lacoste starts at around $37. When GH analysts tested Lacoste towels, we found them to be both soft and absorbent. Most bathrobes go past your knees, while this style is cropped just above the knee, perfect for petite builds. Made from cotton terrycloth, this bathrobe has a similar feel to your towels. We love the detailing on the collar, two large front pockets and the easy hanging tab in the back.
Material | 100% cotton |
---|---|
Sizes | One size |
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
100% cotton
Soft, all-season fabric
High marks for comfort and breathability
Cons
Testers rated it as less absorbent
Our Lab tests have revealed Parachute’s towels and sheets as top performers time and time again. Made of 100% long-staple Turkish 2-ply cotton gauze, this bathrobe uses fabric designed to be ultra-soft and luxurious. Testers raved at how breathable the robe feels without looking see-through, but found it to not be absorbent. We love that this breezy style can be worn every season, as it’s not too hot or too cool.
Material | 100% Turkish cotton |
---|---|
Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL, 1X, 2X, 3X |
Pros
Absorbent, lightweight and soft
Generous return policy
Seven color options
Cons
Shrinks in the dryer
Made with 100% Turkish cotton, the waffle design of this Brooklinen robe absorbs water quickly while being lightweight and soft on your skin. When we tested these towels, GH analysts did notice some shrinkage, so follow the care label closely or hand wash and hang dry for best results.
Material | 100% Turkish cotton waffle |
---|---|
Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL |
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
Ultimate warmth
Full-length
Monogram only costs $8 extra
Cons
Some reviewers wish the fabric was "fluffier"
This plush fleece bathrobe from L.L. Bean is great for cold weather because it's full-length, so you are totally covered. It's available in standard, petite and plus sizing too. Online reviewers say it's perfect to wear over pajamas in the winter months for added warmth. The fleece is very smooth but some reviewers wish it was fluffier. With six colors and monogram options available, this robe also makes an excellent gift this holiday season.
Material | 100% polyester fleece |
---|---|
Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL, 1X, 2X, 3X (with petite lengths) |
Pros
Quilted material
Chic design
Extremely warm
Cons
Nearly $300
Cozy up in the ultimate warm robe this winter. This robe from OFFHOURS blew away GH pros for feeling like a wearable blanket while still looking chic. It features plush quilted fabric and convenient side pockets. With gender neutral sizing, there are only two size options: standard and a smaller version. Testers note that because of its thick material and oversized design, it takes up ample closet space when not in use.
Material | Cotton exterior with recycled polyester quilting |
---|---|
Sizes | Standard, smaller version |
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
Perfect for summer months
Testers loved its elegant appearance
Great to wear when getting ready
Cons
Not as soft as other picks
Made with the brand's top tested linen material, this lightweight, breathable robe is ideal for summer months. Testers rave about just how luxurious and gorgeous this robe looks with one saying it'd be perfect to wear "ahead of an event or wedding because it’s both chic and breathable." Note that linen isn't known for being as soft as cotton or polyester.
Material | 100% European flax |
---|---|
Sizes | S, M, L, XL |
Pros
Super soft silk material
Eight color options
Good Housekeeping Seal holder
Cons
Recommended dry clean
Fisher’s Finery is popular for its super soft silk pillowcases and eye masks, which are also Good Housekeeping Seal holders: This silk robe uses the same luxe silk fabric. Available in five sizes and eight colors, there’s a style you’ll love. Testers found it to be a bit fitted and recommended going up a size for a roomier feel. Note that it’s recommended to wash this robe by hand or dry clean, but it comes with a mesh wash bag if you would like to machine wash using the gentle cycle.
Material | 100% pure mulberry silk |
---|---|
Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL |
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
100% organic
Fair Trade Certified and GOTS certified
Stylish piping details
Cons
Shrinkage after drying
This waffle cotton robe is not only 100% organic, but also Fair Trade Certified and GOTS certified, meaning that the farmers earn a living wage and the entire supply chain has met ecological and social criteria — this is a totally feel-good robe (and not just because it's exceedingly cozy). Testers liked the pockets and stylish appearance, but noticed extensive shrinkage after machine washing and drying. For best results, line dry this robe.
Material | GOTS certified organic cotton |
---|---|
Sizes | S, M, L, XL |
Pros
Cotton flannel fabric
Lightweight and warm
Monogram is just $8 extra
Cons
Some reviewers note that the fabric is thinner
L.L. Bean is known for their high quality, super soft flannel. For this holiday season, flannel robes are a must-have. With a variety of different shades of plaid, we love that this robe is available in regular, petite and plus sizing. Reviewers especially love the cozy feel and that it's lightweight while being warm, but some wish it was thicker.
Material | Cotton flannel |
---|---|
Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL, 1X, 2X, 3X (with petite lengths) |
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
Blend of cotton and Tencel
Silky smooth feel
Thin material takes up very little space in the bathroom
Cons
Doesn't stay closed
Tencel is a sustainable textile that's popular for its silky smooth feel. With a blend of Tencel and cotton, GH analysts were impressed with this robe from Parachute's soft feel and flattering fit. This lounging robe has a hood for extra comfiness while relaxing or getting ready. Testers found that it maintained its softness after laundering. The rope tie is quite long and testers found that it didn't stay closed, so it's best to wear this robe over pajamas.
Material | 70% tencel and 30% organic cotton |
---|---|
Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL, 1X, 2X, 3X |
Pros
36 thread colors with 25 font varieties
Perfect gift for the holidays
Offers returns and exchanges within 30 days
Cons
Limited sizing
This plush, fleece bathrobe comes with personalization, such as your first initial, your first name or a monogram. With over 36 thread colors and 25 font varieties to choose from, this robe can be completely your own and the custom personalization makes it a thoughtful gift, too. This Etsy shop has had over 32,000 sales, selling customized items. Note that this style has limited sizing.
Material | 100% polyester fleece |
---|---|
Sizes | S/M, L/XL |
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
100% organic long stable cotton
Embroidery available
Cozy long length
Cons
Around $200 with added personalization
This fluffy cozy robe from Weezie is made with 100% organic long-staple cotton for a super soft feel. The long length is perfect for cooler months, but testers did note that it's a hot and heavy robe. One tester "especially liked that the belt was attached so you can't lose it and it doesn't move around — so smart!" It's available in eight style options with customized embroidery available for an additional charge.
Material | 100% organic long-staple cotton |
---|---|
Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL |
Pros
Monogram option available
Testers loved the billowy sleeves
Machine washable
Cons
Pricey
A silk robe is the perfect way to add a bit of luxury to your self-care day. Available in seven shades from neutrals to bold hues, this 100% silk robe has an interior tie to keep it secure. GH analysts especially loved that it's cinched at the wrists to create chic, billowy sleeves. Although this pick is a bit pricier, it's machine washable for easy care.
Material | 100% mulberry silk |
---|---|
Sizes | XS/S, M, L/XL |
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Pros
Weighted collar that's removable
Helps promote relaxation
Fuzzy exterior
Cons
Limited sizing available
This robe combines the benefits of a cozy robe with a weighted blanket. There's a three pound weighted wrap in the collar to add a bit of pressure that some say helps relieve stress and anxiety. One tester raved that "it’s actively helped improve my neck and shoulder pain." Testers also loved how "soft and warm the fluffy sherpa-like fabric feels." GH analysts appreciate that the weight is removable, so you have the option to enjoy the added weight and wear the robe without it. It's made with 100% polyester fleece for a soft and snuggly feel.
Material | 100% polyester with silicone beads in a cotton pouch |
---|---|
Sizes | S, M, L |
Pros
Cozy sweatshirt-like feel
Duster length
Hood
Cons
Only one color available
This snuggly robe from ThirdLove blew away GH editors for its impressively soft, sweatshirt-like feel. With excellent design elements, GH analysts appreciate that it has snaps at the top to keep this robe closed when wearing. One GH editor even said "I’ve never felt this way about a bathrobe — I can’t stop wearing it at home and it’s so comfy." Note that there is only one color option.
Material | 46.5% cotton, 46.5% Modal, 7% spandex |
---|---|
Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL, 1X, 2X, 3X |
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
How we chose the best robes
The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab tests towels in the Lab by evaluating absorbency, drying time, shrinkage and weight loss after laundering. As many brands make bathrobes with the same material as their towels, GH pros used this data to find the best performing bathrobes for women. We also had consumer testers try out some of these styles to give feedback on softness, comfort, fit and more before making these selections.
How to choose the best robe for you
✔️ Use: Before deciding which style of robe to buy, think about how you plan to wear the robe. Lightweight styles made from cotton or linen are best for summer months while thicker, fluffier robes are better in the winter. For robes to wear out of the shower, opt for absorbent styles made from cotton terrycloth or waffle weaves.
✔️ Fabric: Robes are available in a variety of different materials and weaves to suit different preferences. GH fiber scientists explain what the key differences between the most common bathrobe fabrics are:
- Terrycloth is the most common fabric for towels. It's a fabric woven with many protruding loops of thread to absorb water easily. This fabric is usually 100% cotton and is ideal for a robe you want to wear right out of the shower.
- Waffle weave uses a distinct pattern that creates square or diamond shapes. It's also usually 100% cotton and is a popular material for towels, but is lighter weight and less absorbent compared to terrycloth.
- Linen is a natural material made from the flax plant. It's known for its lightweight breathable feel, but is generally not as soft.
- Fleece is the fuzziest fabric made from synthetic materials like polyester — ideal for ultimate coziness when already dry.
- Flannel is a woven fabric (usually 100% cotton) with a napped, brushed finish on at least one side. It's perfect for cold weather and especially popular around the holidays.
- Silk is a natural material with a super smooth feel. Silk robes are great as dressing robes to wear while getting ready.
✔️ Sizing: Most robes are available in a variety of sizes. Check the size chart to confirm if it's women's, men's or gender neutral sizing. Testers generally chose robes in their standard sizing with a few preferring to go up a size for a roomier fit.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Why trust Good Housekeeping
Emma Seymour is a senior textiles product analyst in the Good Housekeeping Textiles Lab for over three years, overseeing Lab and consumer tests for bathrobes and all different types of intimates, including pajamas, bralettes and loungewear. She studied Fiber Science and Apparel Design at Cornell University with research experience in product quality assessment. As a lifetime sewer with previous product development experience, she has a strong fashion background with expertise in proper fit and construction.
Emma Seymour
Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Associate Director
Emma Seymour (she/her) is the associate director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance.