Tips for creating a wedding register

Towels

Sure the bathroom's your haven for alone time, but don't tell us you'd never indulge in a tub for two. So dress down and scrub up!

Tip sheet
1. A towel's fiber content -- the type of material that makes up its yarn -- is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing. Cotton's durability and absorbency make it the material of choice for bath towels.

2. For bath rugs, cotton has a tendency to shrink and show lint, making it a somewhat unwise choice. Choose nylon or polyester instead.

Lingo you need to know
American upland cotton: The most commonly used variety of cotton in towels

BATH SHEET: The largest common bath towel. Sizes range from 30" x 60" to 36" x 72".

BATH TOWEL: The most popular towel size. Dimensions range from 22" x 42" to 30" x 54".

COMBED COTTON: Shorter cotton fibers are removed from the yarn, leaving longer, more luxurious fibers that will not shed or pill, while also making the towel softer.

EGYPTIAN COTTON: The strongest, softest, and most expensive towel material.

FINGERTIP TOWEL: The smallest (and fanciest) "drying" towel, these are usually adorned with embroidery or other accents; they measure 11" x 18".

PIMA COTTON: The American variation of Egyptian cotton.

SUPIMA COTTON: Features soft, extra-long fibers for incredibly comfortable linens.

TERRY CLOTH: Made from uncut loops of cotton, it's one of the most common towel fabrics.

TOWEL WEIGHT: The larger and thicker a towel, the heavier and more expensive it will be. Manufacturers base price on the total weight of 12 towels.

WASHCLOTH: Made for scrubbing. Usually range in size from 12" x 12" to 13" x 13".

Don't forget...
- Bath accessories! Choose soap dishes, toothbrush holders, wastebaskets, and other must-haves that match your linens and reflect your personalities.

- If you're lucky enough to have a bedroom with an adjoining bath, it's nice to coordinate the colors of both rooms for a seamless effect.

8 bath towels
4 to 6 hand towels
8 washcloths
4 bath sheets
2 bath mats
1 rug
1 shower curtain
Bath accessories