10 Things That Shouldn't Be Cleaned with Paper Towels, Turns Out They're Not Really Clean

Kapanlagi.com - The things that should not be cleaned with paper towels are actually more numerous than most people realize. Paper towels are indeed practical for absorbing liquids and wiping light stains. However, using paper towels on certain surfaces can actually result in less effective cleaning, leaving behind fine fibers, and even causing scratches on certain items.

The habit of relying on paper towels for all types of cleaning often arises for practical reasons. Paper towels are easily accessible and can be thrown away after use. However, several household cleaning experts state that this material is not suitable for use on certain surfaces, ranging from glass to electronic items.

For that reason, on this occasion, KapanLagi.com will summarize 10 items that should be avoided from paper towels along with the reasons and more appropriate cleaning alternatives. Stay tuned for the complete information, presented on Monday (10/8).

1. Glass and Mirrors

Things That Should Not Be Cleaned with Paper Towels Are Glass and Mirrors (AI generated)

The surfaces of glass and mirrors are things that should not be cleaned with paper towels. The fibers from the paper towel can easily be left behind, making the glass appear cloudy.

Wiping glass with paper towels actually transfers dust and leaves streaks. The end result is that the glass looks dull even after being wiped multiple times.

Microfiber cloths or used newspaper are better options for cleaning glass. Both materials do not leave fibers and make the glass shine again.

2. Stainless Steel Furniture

Things That Should Not Be Cleaned with Paper Towels Are Stainless Steel Appliances (AI generated)

Kitchen utensils made of stainless steel also belong to the list of items that should not be cleaned with paper towels. Paper towels leave fine fibers on the metal surface.

Fingerprint stains and grease marks on refrigerators or stoves are difficult to completely remove with paper towels. The metal surface actually looks dull after being wiped.

A microfiber cloth dampened with stainless steel cleaner provides a neater result. The metal surface shines again without leaving water spots.

3. Patterned Plates and Glasses

Things That Should Not Be Cleaned with Paper Towels Are Patterned Plates and Glasses (AI generated)

Patterned plates and crystal glasses are items that should be avoided from paper towels. The slightly rough texture of the tissue risks scratching the paint layer on the plates.

The habit of wiping wet plates with paper towels also leaves fibers on the glass surface. Excessive friction while wiping can cause the patterns to fade quickly.

Soft cotton cloth is more recommended for drying plates and glasses. This material absorbs water without leaving scratches on the plate's decoration.

4. Non-Stick Pots and Pans

Things That Should Not Be Cleaned With Paper Towels Are Non-Stick Pots and Pans (AI generated)

Non-stick pots are one of the items that should not be cleaned with paper towels. The smooth surface makes paper towels only spread the leftover oil.

Burnt stains on non-stick pans are difficult to lift perfectly with paper towels. The non-stick coating is also at risk of being scratched if cleaned with excessive pressure.

A soft sponge and dish soap are a more appropriate way to clean non-stick pots. This method keeps the non-stick coating durable and long-lasting.

5. Leather Goods

Things That Should Not Be Cleaned With Paper Towels Are Leather Goods (AI generated)

Bags and sofas made of leather are also things that should not be cleaned with paper towels. Paper towels absorb the natural moisture of the leather excessively.

Leather that loses moisture tends to crack and become stiff in a short time. The fibers of paper towels also stick to the pores of the leather, making it difficult to clean.

Dry cotton cloth and special leather moisturizers are recommended for routine care. This method keeps the texture of the leather flexible and durable.

6. Wood Furniture and Fixtures

Things That Should Not Be Cleaned with Paper Towels Are Furniture and Wooden Furnishings (AI generated)

Wood furniture is part of the things that should not be cleaned with paper towels. Paper towels cause the wood surface to lose its natural moisture.

Wood that is too dry is prone to cracking and its color fades quickly. The fibers of paper towels also stick to the pores of the wood, especially if it is not coated with varnish.

A cotton cloth that has been lightly oiled with special wood oil is more suitable for maintenance. This method keeps the appearance of the wood well-maintained for a long time.

7. Electronic Screens

Things That Should Not Be Cleaned with Paper Towels Are Electronic Screens (AI generated)

Television screens, laptops, and mobile phones are on the list of things that should not be cleaned with paper towels. The texture of paper towels risks scratching the protective layer of the screen.

The pressure when wiping the screen with paper towels can also damage the anti-glare coating. Fine scratches on the screen usually only become visible after the device is turned on.

Special microfiber cloths for electronics are a safe choice for cleaning screens. Screen cleaning solutions also help lift stains without damaging the protective layer.

8. Carpets and Rugs

Things That Should Not Be Cleaned with Paper Towels Are Carpets and Rugs (AI generated)

Carpets and rugs are also among the things that should not be cleaned with paper towels. Paper towels easily tear when coming into contact with thick carpet fibers.

Torn pieces of paper towel left in the carpet fibers are quite difficult to clean. The cleaning process becomes longer and more troublesome.

A cloth or small towel is much stronger at absorbing spills on the carpet. This material also does not easily break down when rubbed against carpet fibers.

9. Toilets and Bathrooms

Things That Should Not Be Cleaned with Paper Towels Are Toilets and Bathrooms (AI generated)

Toilets and bathrooms are among the things that should not be cleaned with paper towels. Residual fibers from paper towels pose a risk of clogging drainage pipes.

Paper towels take a long time to decompose compared to regular toilet paper. Clogging in the drainage pipes also becomes a lurking risk.

A toilet brush and specialized cleaning fluid are recommended for cleaning toilets. This method is also safer for the household drainage system.

10. Car Body

Things That Should Not Be Cleaned with Paper Towels Are Car Bodies (AI generated)

The car body is also on the list of things that should not be cleaned with paper towels. The car's paint surface is prone to scratches from the somewhat coarse fibers of paper towels.

Dust and fine sand that stick to the car body can be transferred when wiping with paper towels. This friction causes fine scratches on the paint layer.

Special microfiber cloths for cars and car wash soap are safer options. This method helps maintain the car's paint shine for a long time.

11. Questions and Answers About Things That Should Not Be Cleaned Using Paper Towels

Why shouldn't paper towels be used to clean glass?

Paper towels leave fine fibers on the glass surface, making the cleaning results appear cloudy and less shiny.

Are paper towels safe for cleaning laptop screens?

Paper towels risk scratching the protective layer of laptop screens due to their slightly rough texture.

What materials are suitable to replace paper towels for cleaning glass?

Microfiber cloths and used newspaper are good options because they do not leave fibers on the glass surface.

Why are paper towels not recommended to be thrown into the toilet?

The fibers in paper towels take a long time to decompose, which poses a risk of clogging the drainage system in the toilet.

Can paper towels damage wooden furniture?

Paper towels absorb the natural moisture of wood, causing the surface of the furniture to become dry and prone to cracking over time.

(kpl/rul)