{"id":2165,"date":"2024-01-26T13:29:58","date_gmt":"2024-01-26T13:29:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/?p=2165"},"modified":"2024-01-26T14:27:31","modified_gmt":"2024-01-26T14:27:31","slug":"paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/","title":{"rendered":"Paper Towel vs. Paper Napkin"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/what-is-a-hand-towel\/\">Paper towels<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/what-is-a-paper-towel\/\">paper napkins<\/a><\/strong> are two common household paper products that many people use for cleaning, wiping, and <a href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-uses\/\">absorbing spills<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Paper-Towel-vs.-Paper-Napkin.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2427\" srcset=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Paper-Towel-vs.-Paper-Napkin.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Paper-Towel-vs.-Paper-Napkin-768x403.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>But what exactly is the difference between them, and when should you use one versus the other?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_66_1 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #000000;color:#000000\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #000000;color:#000000\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#What_Are_Paper_Towels_and_Paper_Napkins\" title=\"What Are Paper Towels and Paper Napkins\">What Are Paper Towels and Paper Napkins<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Materials_Used_in_Paper_Towels_vs_Napkins\" title=\"Materials Used in Paper Towels vs Napkins\">Materials Used in Paper Towels vs Napkins<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Paper_Towels\" title=\"Paper Towels\">Paper Towels<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Paper_Napkins\" title=\"Paper Napkins\">Paper Napkins<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Cost_Comparison_Between_Paper_Towels_and_Napkins\" title=\"Cost Comparison Between Paper Towels and Napkins\">Cost Comparison Between Paper Towels and Napkins<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Environmental_Impact_of_Paper_Towels_vs_Napkins\" title=\"Environmental Impact of Paper Towels vs. Napkins\">Environmental Impact of Paper Towels vs. Napkins<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Paper_Towels-2\" title=\"Paper Towels\">Paper Towels<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Paper_Napkins-2\" title=\"Paper Napkins\">Paper Napkins<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Usage_of_Paper_Towels_and_Napkins\" title=\"Usage of Paper Towels and Napkins\">Usage of Paper Towels and Napkins<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Uses_for_Paper_Towels\" title=\"Uses for Paper Towels:\">Uses for Paper Towels:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Uses_for_Paper_Napkins\" title=\"Uses for Paper Napkins:\">Uses for Paper Napkins:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Absorbency_Differences_Between_Napkins_and_Paper_Towels\" title=\"Absorbency Differences Between Napkins and Paper Towels\">Absorbency Differences Between Napkins and Paper Towels<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Durability_Differences_Between_Paper_Towels_and_Napkins\" title=\"Durability Differences Between Paper Towels and Napkins\">Durability Differences Between Paper Towels and Napkins<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Paper_Towels-3\" title=\"Paper Towels\">Paper Towels<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Paper_Napkins-3\" title=\"Paper Napkins\">Paper Napkins<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#FAQs\" title=\"FAQs\">FAQs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Which_is_more_environmentally_friendly_%E2%80%93_paper_towels_or_napkins\" title=\"Which is more environmentally friendly &#8211; paper towels or napkins?\">Which is more environmentally friendly &#8211; paper towels or napkins?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Are_paper_towels_or_napkins_more_sanitary\" title=\"Are paper towels or napkins more sanitary?\">Are paper towels or napkins more sanitary?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Why_are_paper_towels_more_expensive_than_napkins\" title=\"Why are paper towels more expensive than napkins?\">Why are paper towels more expensive than napkins?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Should_cloth_or_reusable_napkins_be_used_instead_of_paper\" title=\"Should cloth or reusable napkins be used instead of paper?\">Should cloth or reusable napkins be used instead of paper?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Can_paper_napkins_substitute_paper_towels_for_cleaning_tasks\" title=\"Can paper napkins substitute paper towels for cleaning tasks?\">Can paper napkins substitute paper towels for cleaning tasks?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-paper-napkin\/#Conclusion\" title=\"Conclusion\">Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Are_Paper_Towels_and_Paper_Napkins\"><\/span>What Are Paper Towels and Paper Napkins<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Paper towels<\/strong> are thicker, more absorbent sheets of paper that come wrapped in a roll. They are designed for tasks like wiping kitchen counters, soaking up spills, cleaning hands, and other utility uses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Paper napkins<\/strong> are thinner, smaller sheets of paper folded into squares or rectangles. They are meant for use during meals \u2013 placing in your lap, wiping your mouth, etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th>Factor<\/th><th>Paper Towels<\/th><th>Paper Napkins<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Typical size<\/td><td>Large sheets, often sold perforated into smaller sections or half sheets<\/td><td>Small, square or rectangular folded sheets<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Materials<\/td><td>Thicker paper, higher fiber content<\/td><td>Thinner paper<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Absorbency<\/td><td>Very high, meant to soak up liquid spills<\/td><td>Moderate absorbency<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Durability<\/td><td>Stand up well to scrubbing, wiping, cleaning<\/td><td>More delicate, tear easily<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cost<\/td><td>Typically 3-4 times more expensive than napkins<\/td><td>Cheaper for the amount of paper<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/bath-towel-vs-washcloth\/\">Comparison of<\/a> paper towels vs paper napkins<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>Key Takeaway:<\/strong> Paper towels are larger, more durable sheets for utility use, while napkins are smaller folded sheets meant for use during dining.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Materials_Used_in_Paper_Towels_vs_Napkins\"><\/span>Materials Used in Paper Towels vs Napkins<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The type of raw materials and paper-making process differs quite a bit between paper towels and napkins. This impacts the final product performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Paper_Towels\"><\/span>Paper Towels<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Most paper towels today are made using a blend of <strong>virgin wood pulp and recycled paper content<\/strong>. This allows them to balance absorbency from the virgin pulp with sustainability benefits from recycled paper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Paper towels designed for cleaning also incorporate <strong>longer paper fibers<\/strong> which provide strength and tear resistance. Multi-ply construction further improves their durability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Common paper <a href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/bath-towel-vs-beach-towel\/\">towel materials<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Virgin wood pulp + recycled paper content<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Longer paper fibers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Multi-ply construction<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Paper_Napkins\"><\/span>Paper Napkins<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Paper napkins utilize <strong>virgin wood pulp<\/strong>, like that made from sustainably grown timber. Some also incorporate smaller proportions of recycled paper fibers and alternative plant fibers like straw or <a href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/what-is-cotton\/\">cotton<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As they don\u2019t require high wet strength, paper napkins use shorter paper fibers. Most are also <strong>single-ply<\/strong> or two-ply as they simply need to be absorbent without adding unnecessary bulk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Common paper napkin materials:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Virgin wood pulp<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shorter paper fibers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Single-ply or two-ply paper<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In recent years, some napkin manufacturers like Seventh Generation have released lines using <strong>100% recycled paper<\/strong>. This allows paper napkins to become more sustainable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>Key Takeaway: <\/strong>Paper towels use a blend of virgin and recycled fibers to provide strength and absorption. Napkins are often single-ply and use mostly virgin pulp for softness.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cost_Comparison_Between_Paper_Towels_and_Napkins\"><\/span>Cost Comparison Between Paper Towels and Napkins<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In most stores, <strong>paper towels are significantly more expensive than paper napkins<\/strong>. Based on a cost-per-square-foot analysis, paper towels can be <strong>3 to 6 times more costly<\/strong> on average.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, a common price comparison is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>250 count pack of standard two-ply napkins: $3<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>6 count pack of Brawny paper towels: $5<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>There are a couple reasons driving this price difference:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>More raw materials<\/strong>: Paper towels use more virgin tree pulp and a greater paper fiber content overall during manufacturing. More materials equals higher cost.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Wet strength additives<\/strong>: Chemical additives to improve the wet strength of paper towels also adds expense. Napkins require no additives as they are not used for cleaning soaked spills.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For the consumer, it may seem like better value to just substitute paper towels wherever possible. However, keep reading to understand why napkins still deserve a place in your home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Environmental_Impact_of_Paper_Towels_vs_Napkins\"><\/span>Environmental Impact of Paper Towels vs. Napkins<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Understandably, many environmentally-conscious consumers worry about the impacts of relying heavily on <strong>disposable paper products<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So what&#8217;s the more sustainable choice &#8211; paper towels or paper napkins?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Paper_Towels-2\"><\/span>Paper Towels<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Recycled paper towels<\/strong> provide the greenest option here. Major brands like Bounty offer <a href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/what-are-paper-towels-definition\/\">paper towel rolls<\/a> containing <strong>90% or more post-consumer recycled paper<\/strong>. This drastically reduces new tree pulp demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Still, there are some negatives when relying entirely on paper towels:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Roll format encourages overuse<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Used more frequently than napkins, multiplying waste<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Must replace continually once roll is depleted<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>By slightly adjusting how we use them, <strong>paper towels can be a conscious choice<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Purchase smaller individual half-sheet rolls<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use only as necessary for cleaning messes and spills<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Paper_Napkins-2\"><\/span>Paper Napkins<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While traditionally made from <strong>virgin tree pulp<\/strong>, paper napkins have the benefit of moderation. They are only used periodically during meals, not continually like paper towels for cleaning and wiping tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When choosing paper over reusable <a href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-alternatives\/\">cloth napkins<\/a>, look for these sustainable options:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>100% recycled paper napkins<\/strong>: An eco-friendly choice that reduces tree pulp demands<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Unbleached napkins<\/strong>: Avoid whitening processes involving chlorine and its derivatives<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Minimal packaging<\/strong>: Choose bulk napkin packs rather than boxes or plastic wrappers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Used responsibly only when dining, paper napkins create notably less net waste over time than paper towels used in cleaning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Usage_of_Paper_Towels_and_Napkins\"><\/span>Usage of Paper Towels and Napkins<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Deciding when to use each product depends greatly on the task at hand: eating vs cleaning, delicateness required vs durability needed. Below are the standard conventions on when to choose paper towels or napkins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Uses_for_Paper_Towels\"><\/span>Uses for Paper Towels:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Cleaning counters, appliances, surfaces<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wiping cabinet doors and fixtures<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Soaking up spills around the home<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drying hands in the kitchen or bathroom<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wrapping up food items like vegetables<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Temporary placemats or trivets in a pinch<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Uses_for_Paper_Napkins\"><\/span>Uses for Paper Napkins:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Wiping hands and mouth during meals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Placing in lap to protect clothing from food drips\/spills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Using under bowls or plates at the dinner table<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Serving snacks like popcorn or finger foods<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lining cake pans for easy release<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Making into <a href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/what-is-a-fingertip-towel-used-for\/\">drink coasters<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In general, if you are eating \u2013 use a napkin. If you are cleaning or prepping food \u2013 grab a <a href=\"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/paper-towel-vs-toilet-paper\/\">paper towel<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The exceptions?<\/strong> People commonly resort to using whichever is on hand at the moment, regardless of conventions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some other interesting napkin vs paper towel user insights:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>College students and young adults<\/strong>&nbsp;are particularly prone to eating meals with a nearby roll of paper towels in lieu of napkins<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Larger families and households<\/strong>&nbsp;report higher rates of paper towel usage across all functions due to convenience<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>So cultural norms are certainly shifting away from napkin-only dining!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Absorbency_Differences_Between_Napkins_and_Paper_Towels\"><\/span>Absorbency Differences Between Napkins and Paper Towels<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The key variation setting apart <strong>paper towels<\/strong> and <strong>paper napkins<\/strong> comes down to absorbency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As cleaning aids meant to sop up all sorts of food and liquid messes, paper towels are engineered for maximum wet strength using the highest quality paper fibers and ply constructions. Most standard kitchen paper towels can hold over <strong>10 times their weight<\/strong> in liquid!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In comparison, paper napkins use shorter paper fibers and single to two-ply construction to balance softness and absorption ability. The best paper dinner napkins on the market today typically absorb around <strong>4-6 times their dry weight<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Still, while paper towels edge out paper napkins, even a basic one-ply napkin can effectively clean hands and mouth during casual dining. You don&#8217;t need the full cleaning power of paper towels when simply eating pizza on the couch or a sandwich at your desk!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For this reason, napkin manufacturers have recently innovated to narrow the absorbency gap. Examples like Vanity Fair <strong>Extra Absorbent Napkins<\/strong> bring the wet strength of paper towels to the dinner table through use of compressed ply technology and longer fibers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>Key Takeaway:<\/strong> Paper towels feature far greater absorbency by weight, but standard paper napkins still suit most casual dining needs. New &#8220;ultra absorbent&#8221; napkins also help bridge this gap.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Durability_Differences_Between_Paper_Towels_and_Napkins\"><\/span>Durability Differences Between Paper Towels and Napkins<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Durability represents another key performance difference that stems from the unique production methods used for paper towels versus paper napkins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Paper_Towels-3\"><\/span>Paper Towels<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>High ply counts, dense compressed sheets, and long paper fibers enable <strong>paper towels<\/strong> to stand up well to vigorous scrubbing, repeated reuse, and extended soaking of spills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Wet strength additives also prevent the structural integrity of paper towels from breaking down during cleaning tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a result, the average paper towel maintains decent strength even when totally saturated. This prevents shredding or making a mess even worse with tiny paper shreds flying around! The ability to effectively clean tough messes relies first on durability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Paper_Napkins-3\"><\/span>Paper Napkins<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Paper napkins<\/strong> conversely utilize shorter fibers and single to two-ply construction to reduce material usage and cost. More plies would simply add unnecessary bulk at the dinner table.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The result? Napkins tear and fall apart easily when subjected to heavy scrubbing or wiping. Excess liquid causes them to disintegrate rapidly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, paper napkins only aim to gently wipe hands and mouths after casual eating. They do not need to withstand aggressive cleaning. For their intended use case, standard durability suits most diners well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs\"><\/span>FAQs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_is_more_environmentally_friendly_%E2%80%93_paper_towels_or_napkins\"><\/span>Which is more environmentally friendly &#8211; paper towels or napkins?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It depends on a few factors, but <strong>recycled paper towels<\/strong> and <strong>100% recycled napkins<\/strong> provide the greenest disposable paper options overall. Responsible consumption habits also play a major role here for both products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Are_paper_towels_or_napkins_more_sanitary\"><\/span>Are paper towels or napkins more sanitary?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Studies show no difference. As long as hands or faces are cleaned effectively, the choice of paper product does not impact sanitation or spread of germs. Proper washing afterwards is key.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_are_paper_towels_more_expensive_than_napkins\"><\/span>Why are paper towels more expensive than napkins?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Paper towels require more raw materials, virgin pulp, chemical additives for wet strength, and generally more calendering\/production processes that drive up costs. Their utility and cleaning focus command higher prices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Should_cloth_or_reusable_napkins_be_used_instead_of_paper\"><\/span>Should cloth or reusable napkins be used instead of paper?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Reusable cloth napkins provide the most eco-friendly solution over the long run. However, occasional use of recycled paper napkins is unlikely to cause major environmental harm. Choosing cloth comes down to personal habits and effort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_paper_napkins_substitute_paper_towels_for_cleaning_tasks\"><\/span>Can paper napkins substitute paper towels for cleaning tasks?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While in a pinch people use basic one-ply napkins for minor spills and wiping, they lack the durability and absorbency needed for most cleaning jobs. For best results, use paper towels for cleaning and paper napkins for dining only.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Paper towels<\/strong> and <strong>paper napkins<\/strong> occupy a similar purpose as disposable paper products for wiping and cleaning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, they exhibit very distinct designs, materials, and performance differences that dictate their suitable applications.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Paper towels and paper napkins are two common household paper products that many people use for cleaning, wiping, and absorbing spills. But what exactly is the difference between them, and when should you use one versus the other? What Are Paper Towels and Paper Napkins Paper towels are thicker, more absorbent sheets of paper that [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":2427,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[21,39],"tags":[],"blocksy_meta":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2165"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2165"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2165\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2428,"href":"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2165\/revisions\/2428"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2427"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2165"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2165"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/towelsedition.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2165"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}