Plain Weave: For Lint-Free Drying

The smooth, tight construction of plain-weave towels makes them a bit less absorbent than waffle weaves (less surface area means less water-sucking power). But that same quality — the flat, unfuzzy weave — makes them perfect for tasks that require streak- and lint-free results, like drying glassware.

Beauty: Target Thomas O’Brien Dish Towels, $10 for three (shown, left)
Don’t be fooled by the pretty herringbone stitching and the chic stripes on these kitchen accessories by New York City designer Thomas O’Brien. They performed like champs, absorbing just a bit less (3/4 cup) than the brawniest plain weave. The towels come in packages of three, each with a different weave and a coordinating design. Choose from red (shown), blue, gray, and green.
Size: 19 by 29 inches.
To Buy: 800-800-8800.

Brawn: Crate & Barrel Spice Grid, $4 (shown, right)
This towel not only was the most absorbent of the plain weaves tested but also absorbed eight times as much liquid (1 cup) as its weakest competitor. Also available in a complementary Spice Stripe pattern.
Size: 20 by 30 inches.
To Buy: www.crateandbarrel.com.