What should I look for in spa robes?

The growth in the spa robe industry has provided us with a broad range of choices. Leading manufacturers may offer a variety of options. How do you know which to choose? I suggest that fabric for comfort of clients - combined with budget - are the first criteria you need to consider.

Microfiber - a polyester blend having almost no shrinkage or wrinkle potential - is one of the most popular synthetic materials. It can present a very lightweight and comfortable garment. This material is popularly used as an outside shell, a lining and as a shawl collar. From a financial viewpoint, items designed with microfiber can be very cost-efficient for longevity reasons. The fact that it tends to hold its color longer than most natural products is a plus. (This fabric been touted to take well over 300 washings.)

For those of you who insist that your fabric breathe, cotton - including the classic terry cloth - is still king. The cost of cotton is primarily determined by weight and origin of the material. Although it breathes, it (like most natural fibers) can change. Without proper care, you may find your clients squirming to get into them. Beware that while the lighter weight of a 100% cotton robe is nice and it may cost you less in the beginning, it may not be the solutions for longevity.

For the budget-conscious, durability may be the strongest consideration. Those for whom cotton is a priority may find that a good compromise for cost purposes is a cotton linin inside a microfiber shell. Another choice might be cotton blended with polyester, which is used to create the popular and versatile single-layer waffle robe.

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