I'm like your mates, I use both tiny face cloths and micro hand towels, I have millions.
If in a rush I wash them myself with massage roll and soap rather than have them shuffle round the bathroom, takes 3 minutes.
Face cloths for a quick dick wash and micro hand towels for a shower.
I give them one, hide the rest. Learnt from previous towel abuse.
Some will squeal for beach towels to dry their winkles, I just smile all sweet like.
I don't give them big towels as I need those for myself or to protect the bed.