Why Cloth Paper Towels Matter — and How to Choose the Best Ones
My Family and I use this brand daily
If you’re trying to live more sustainably, reduce waste, or simply cut down on household costs, cloth “paper towels” are one of the easiest and most impactful swaps you can make. They’re reusable, long-lasting, and incredibly versatile — all while eliminating the endless cycle of buying roll after roll of disposable paper towels.
The best part? Anyone can make this switch. Whether you use them full-time or keep a single roll of disposables for emergencies, incorporating cloth towels into your routine makes a meaningful difference.
Let’s break down why they matter and how to choose a good quality set.
🌿 Why Cloth Paper Towels Are So Important
1. They Dramatically Reduce Household Waste
Traditional paper towels are single-use, meaning you throw them out seconds after using them. The average household goes through dozens of rolls a year, all of which end up in landfills.
Cloth paper towels, on the other hand, can be washed and reused hundreds of times. A single set can replace dozens—if not hundreds—of disposable rolls. It’s one of the simplest sustainability swaps with one of the biggest impacts.
2. They Save You Money
Buying paper towels is a never-ending expense — especially if you have kids, pets, or a naturally messy household.
Quality cloth towels last for years, meaning one purchase pays for itself quickly. After that, every wipe, spill, and cleanup is essentially free.
3. They Actually Clean Better
Most cloth paper towels are made from:
cotton
bamboo
flannel
terry cloth
or waffle weave fabrics
These materials are more absorbent and more effective than disposables. They soak up spills faster, scrub better, and don’t fall apart mid-clean.
No more shredding. No more smearing. Just better cleaning.
4. They’re Healthier for Your Home
Disposable towels are often bleached, chemically treated, or scented — not ideal for food surfaces or sensitive skin.
Cloth towels made from natural fibers are:
non-toxic
fragrance-free
gentle on skin
safe for wiping counters, hands, faces, and even babies
A healthier home starts with what you use every day.
🌱 What to Look for in Good Quality Cloth Paper Towels
Not all reusable towels are created equal. Here are the features that truly matter:
1. Absorbency
Choose towels made from materials like:
cotton flannel
bamboo fleece
terry cloth
waffle weave cotton
These fabrics drink up spills quickly and stay absorbent wash after wash. Thin or low-quality fabrics often just push liquid around.
2. Durable Stitching
The edges should be:
serged
zig-zag stitched
or cover-stitched
Good stitching prevents fraying and keeps your towels in good shape even after hundreds of washes.
3. A Soft, Flexible Texture
Great cloth towels get better with use. Look for materials that become softer and more absorbent over time rather than stiff or scratchy.
Cotton or bamboo flannel is especially popular because it grips messes without scratching surfaces.
4. Size and Thickness
The best size is usually similar to a traditional paper towel, but thicker fabrics offer more versatility. Decide based on how you’ll use them:
Thin flannel: perfect for everyday wiping
Mid-weight: great for kitchen messes
Thick terry cloth: ideal for big spills or scrubbing
A mix can cover all your household needs.
5. Easy Care
Quality towels should be:
✔ machine washable
✔ dryer friendly
✔ able to withstand frequent laundering
✔ quick to dry
Avoid anything that requires special care — these should make life easier, not harder.
6. Eco-Conscious Materials
If sustainability is your goal, look for:
organic cotton
bamboo
recycled fibers
unbleached fabrics
These options are gentler on the planet from start to finish.
🌼 Why Making the Switch Matters
Cloth paper towels are one of those rare swaps that benefit you, your household, and the planet all at once.
Less waste
Less money spent
Better cleaning performance
Healthier materials
A more sustainable home
And the transition is effortless — start with a small set, use them for everyday cleaning, and before you know it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.
