Tea Towel vs Dish Towel: What’s the Difference in the US, UK, and Australia?
If you design, sell, or source kitchen textiles internationally, you’ve probably seen both terms used: Tea towel and dish towel. They look similar. They feel similar. They’re often used for the same purpose.So what’s the difference—and which term should you use? This guide explains the real difference between tea towels and dish towels, how the terms are used in different countries, and what designers and sellers should know when targeting the US, UK, or Australian markets. What Is a Tea Towel? A tea towel is a term commonly used in: Traditionally, tea towels were made from linen and used to dry delicate items like teacups and china. Today, they are usually made from cotton or cotton blends and are used for: In the UK and Australia, tea towel is the standard and widely understood term. What Is a Dish Towel? A dish towel is the most common term used in the United States. Dish towels are kitchen towels used for: In American English, the term dish towel sounds practical and familiar.Most US consumers will instantly understand what it is—while the term tea towel may sound unusual or old-fashioned to some. Tea Towel vs Dish Towel: Key Differences Explained In practice, tea towels and dish towels often describe the same product.The difference is mainly regional language, not function. Term Commonly Used In Typical Use Tea towel UK, Australia, NZ Drying dishes, decorative kitchen textile Dish towel United States Drying dishes, everyday kitchen use Kitchen towel US & global Broad, casual term for kitchen towels In many cases, a tea towel and a dish towel can be