The Best Hooded Towels for Babies: What to Look For + Why Pottery Barn Kids Is Worth the Hype

There’s something undeniably sweet about wrapping your baby in a hooded towel post-bath but not all hooded towels are created equal. While some are thin, scratchy, or shrink after a few washes, others become the bathtime MVP you reach for over and over again.

Whether you’re building your baby registry or upgrading from your current stash, here’s what to look for in a high-quality hooded towel and why Pottery Barn Kids consistently comes out on top.

What to Look for in a Great Hooded Towel

1. Absorbency
You want a towel that does its job, dries your baby quickly without needing multiple passes or leaving skin damp.

2. Softness (Even After Washing)
Some towels feel great at first but get scratchy fast. Look for ones that stay plush and cozy wash after wash.

3. Size Matters
Many baby towels are tiny and outgrown in months. A good hooded towel should last into toddlerhood (bonus if you can wrap them like a little burrito).

4. Durability
Shrinkage, fraying edges, or fabric thinning are all signs of a towel that won’t last. Pay attention to stitching and material quality.

5. Design and Gift-Ability
Cute hoods are a fun bonus think animal ears, embroidery, or playful prints but functionality should still come first.

Pottery Barn Kids Hooded Towels

Verdict: The MVP. Worth the splurge.

These are the towels I keep reaching for. They're plush, generously sized, and built to last, all the things you want in a bath essential. After countless washes, they’re still thick, soft, and perfectly shaped. Plus, their large size makes them perfect not just for infants, but for growing toddlers too.

Pros:

• Super absorbent and luxuriously fluffy

• Holds up beautifully over time. No shrinkage, no scratchiness

• Generously sized (actually fits toddlers!)

• Stylish and adorable designs, great for gifts

• Feels premium and practical at the same time

Cons:

• On the pricier side, but honestly, you only need one or two

Bottom Line:
If you’re debating whether to splurge, do it. This is the towel you’ll end up using every single time, while all the others sit untouched in the drawer. It’s that good.

Pro Tip for Parents

If you’re only registering for one, go neutral or classic so it works for years (and future kids). And don’t forget hooded towels make excellent baby shower or new sibling gifts, especially when paired with cute bath products or a tub toy.

Final Thought:
You don’t need a pile of towels just a few that actually hold up. And when it comes to comfort, durability, and everyday joy after a splashy bath, Pottery Barn Kids Hooded Towels are the clear winner.

I’ve linked these adorable Pottery Barn Kids hooded towels on my LTK. Click here to shop and grab your little one’s new favorite!