The COVID-19 crisis has given us all heightened awareness of the importance of washing your hands and using proper technique, but what about drying your hands? It is important to get the hands dry, as moisture can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Paper towels are your best bet for preventing the spread of contamination.
Paper Towels vs Air Dryers
Nobody likes using the air dryers found in many public restrooms. They are also less effective than paper towels, partly because they take too long to dry the hands. Many users leave before their hands are completely dry. Hands get dry faster with paper towels, and the friction from paper towel use can remove remaining germs that did not get washed away. Air dryers can also blow bacteria back onto the hands.
Paper Towels vs Cloth Towels
Clean cloth towels are effective at removing bacteria on the hands, but they retain moisture in which bacteria can breed. That makes them a high risk for cross-contamination. “Tests reveal 89 percent of kitchen towels and nearly 26 percent of bathroom towels are contaminated with coliform bacteria.” Wash your cloth towels in hot water.
Overall, paper towels are the best solution for drying your hands, removing germs, and preventing cross-contamination.
