Everything You Need To Know About Paper Towels: Get The Facts

Are you curious about paper towels?

Want to know what they're made of, how long they have been around, and if you can put them in the microwave? Well, we’ve got all the answers. In this blog post, we will take a deep dive into everything you need to know about paper towels so the next time you buy some, you make an informed decision.

We'll explore the history and development of paper towels over the years as well as discuss their different uses and features. And most importantly answer any lingering questions or doubts that may exist about these handy little items.

Read our blog post on paper towels now to learn more!

What Are The Benefits Of Paper Towels:

Paper towels have several benefits that make them a better choice than traditional cloth towels. First and foremost, they are more hygienic.

Cloth towels can harbor bacteria and germs, which can spread from one surface to another. In contrast, paper towels are designed for single use and can be easily disposed of after use. Paper towels are also more convenient to use.

With conventional towels, you need to wash them after each use, which can be time-consuming and lead to extra laundry. Finally, paper towels are more affordable compared to cloth towels, especially when you factor in the time and energy it takes to wash them.

What Are Paper Towels Made Of:

Paper towels are made from wood pulp that has been processed into a thin, absorbent sheet of soft paper. The wood pulp is first mixed with water to form a pulp, which is then pressed and dried to form the paper towel.

The texture of the paper towel depends on how it is pressed during the drying process. Thicker paper towels are typically used for cleaning up spills and messes, while thinner paper towels are used for drying hands.

Tissue paper is very similar and was first thought of by a Philadelphia teacher that noticed how his students used cloth towels more than once and spread germs from person to person.

When Were Paper Towels Invented:

Paper towels were invented in 1907 by Arthur Scott, of Scott Paper Company, who was a paper mill worker in Philadelphia. The first paper towels were disposable sanitary wipes that were made from leftover butcher paper.

Scott soon realized that he could sell these paper towels to train stations, hotels, and restaurants, where they became an instant hit due to their convenience and affordability.  

By 1930, Scott Paper marketed paper towels nationally under the brand name 'Scot Towels'. Today, paper towels are a common household item found in most kitchens. They are used for everything from wiping up spills to cleaning surfaces and drying hands.

Are Paper Towels Recyclable:

Yes, paper towels are recyclable, but they are not accepted by all recycling centers. In general, used paper towels can be recycled alongside regular paper products, such as newspapers and cardboard.

However, if they are contaminated with food waste or other non-paper materials, they may not be accepted for recycling. Be sure to check with your local recycling center to make certain you can take paper towel rolls to them with your recycled paper.

With reusable kitchen towels you you get a more eco-friendly option as they can be for kitchen use and washed to be used again. That is infinitely better for the environment than other paper products that are disposable.

Are Paper Towels Compostable:

While paper towels are made from natural materials, they are not always compostable. Many paper towels contain chemicals and additives that can prevent them from breaking down in a compost pile.

Additionally, if they are contaminated with food waste or other non-compostable materials, they may not be suitable for composting. If you do plan to compost paper towels, be sure to check the labels and choose brands that are certified compostable.

To learn more check out our article Are Paper Towels Biodegradable.

Can You Flush Paper Towels

No, paper towels should not be flushed down the toilet. Unlike toilet paper, paper towels are designed to be strong and absorbent, which means they can easily clog your toilet or septic system.

Flushing paper towels can also lead to larger plumbing problems and damage to sewer systems. Instead, always dispose of paper towels in the trash.

Always be sure to use toilet tissues and toilet paper for bathroom use. That is the only product that should ever be flushed down a toilet.

Learn more about flushing paper towels and the negative effects it can have on septic and sewer systems!

Can You Put A Paper Towel In The Microwave

Yes, paper towels can be used in the microwave, but it's important to use them properly.

Paper towels are not designed to be heat-resistant, so they can potentially singe around the edges and even catch fire if left in the microwave for too long.

To avoid this, always wet your paper towel before putting it in the microwave. This will help the towel absorb heat without burning.

Can You Put Paper Towel In An Air Fryer:

Yes, you can use a paper towel in an air fryer, but again, it's important to use them properly. Paper towels can catch fire in the high heat of an air fryer, so it's important to keep them away from any heating elements.

If you do use a paper towel in your air fryer, make sure to keep it away from the sides and edges of the basket and use a low heat setting.

Be sure to check on it as well to ensure no problems pop up while your run the appliance.

Can You Use A Paper Towel As A Coffee Filter

In a pinch, you can use a paper towel as a makeshift coffee filter. Simply fold the paper towel in half and place it in the coffee maker basket.

However, be aware that paper towels are not designed for this purpose and may not produce the same quality of coffee as a traditional coffee filter.

They also tend to disintegrate pretty quickly so be sure to monitor it as you pour your water through the grounds. It's also a good idea to use double-thick paper towels for extra absorbency and durability.

Conclusion

Paper towels are a versatile and convenient tool in any household. From cleaning up spills to drying hands, they are essential items in our daily lives. We hope this blog post has given you a greater understanding of the benefits, manufacturing, and proper use of paper towels. Remember to always dispose of paper towels properly and use them safely in high-heat situations like microwaves and air fryers. Finally, if you're looking to be more eco-friendly, consider switching to reusable cloth towels, or choose brands of paper towels that you can recycle.