Absorbency and strength
Cotton absorbs water, oil, grease and solvents, and doesn't tear when wet. For a big spill or a greasy part, one rag often replaces several paper sheets.
Cost
Recycled rags are sold by weight. A rag lasts longer than a sheet and, when it isn't soaked with hazardous products, it can be washed and reused. For shop wiping, the cost per use is generally lower.
Waste
Paper towels go in the trash after one use. Our rags are made from clothing and textiles that would otherwise go to landfill, so you give them a second life before they're thrown out.
When paper is still better
- Drying hands in public washrooms.
- Food-contact surfaces, when your procedure requires single-use paper.
- Bodily fluids and situations where you want to throw everything out immediately.
Bottom line
For shops, garages, job sites, plants and building maintenance, recycled rags do better for less. Keep paper for hand hygiene and throw-away uses.