Insights

The Mystery of the Hot Towel in Business Class: Face or Hands?

Charlie Mortling

Jan 15, 2025 — 2 min read

If you’ve ever traveled in business class on an airplane, chances are you’ve been presented with a neatly folded hot towel shortly after takeoff. This small, steamy offering often feels like a luxurious gesture, but it can leave first-time recipients wondering: what exactly is this for? Should you use it on your face, your hands, or both?

The Origins of the Hot Towel Tradition

Chris 73 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

The hot towel tradition in aviation is thought to have been inspired by Japanese “oshibori,” which are moist towels offered to guests before or after a meal. These towels, used for cleansing and refreshing, symbolize hospitality and care. Airlines adopted the practice as a way to enhance the passenger experience, especially in premium cabins, where comfort and service are paramount.

So, what is the hot towel actually for?

While there’s no “one right way” to use it, the primary purpose is to help passengers freshen up during the flight. Here are some typical uses:

For Your Hands: Many passengers use the hot towel to cleanse their hands, especially before a meal. Airplane environments can be less than pristine, and wiping your hands with a warm, damp cloth can feel much more pleasant than using a hand sanitizer or a cold towelette.
For Your Face: The dry air in airplane cabins can leave your skin feeling parched and grimy. Gently dabbing or wiping your face with the hot towel can help remove any oil or buildup while providing a soothing, spa-like sensation.
For Relaxation: Beyond practical cleansing, the warmth of the towel can be calming and therapeutic. Some passengers enjoy simply holding it over their hands or face for a few moments to relax and unwind.

"Debbie Wong's - West Springfield MA" by Rusty Clark ~ 100K Photos is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

Hot Towel Etiquette

If you’re new to this ritual, here are a few pointers to keep in mind:

Use it promptly: The towels are typically warm and moist for only a short period, so it’s best to use them right away.
Be gentle: Avoid vigorously scrubbing your face or hands, as the towel’s texture might irritate sensitive skin.
Dispose of it properly: Once you’re done, fold the towel and place it back on the provided tray or in an easy and obvious place for the flight attendant to collect.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose to use it on your hands, your face, or simply enjoy it as a moment of relaxation, it’s one of those small touches that make flying a little more special. So, the next time a warm towel is handed to you mid-flight, savor the experience – it’s your moment to feel refreshed and pampered at 35,000 feet.

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