The paper towel guide

In the huge & varied market for paper hand towels (also known as folded paper or folded hand towels), it’s easy to get lost. With this article, we’d like to make it easier for you to find the right paper towel. We clarify the different types of folding, present other characteristics and draw up a comparison.

Types of folding

Folded hand towels have different characteristics, one of which is the type of fold. Depending on the dispenser and area of use, different folds are suitable. And not all paper towels are suitable for all dispensers. It’s important that the dimensions of the paper match those of the dispenser, to ensure easy removal and less tearing of paper towels.

 

V-folding

V-folding (or ZZ-folding / zigzag folding) is one of the most common types of folding. Sheets are folded in half once, giving them a V shape. During the manufacturing process, the tissues are folded into each other so that the next paper is ready to be removed from the dispenser. V-folded tissues have a depth of 9.5 to 12 cm and are therefore often a little wider than other types of folding.

 

 

Z-folding

Z-folding (also known as Non Stop / Interfold) is another very common type of folding. These towels are folded twice and therefore a little narrower than V-folded towels (approx. 8 cm). This type of folding is very hygienic, as the following paper is not touched during sampling. When unfolded, Z-folded and V-folded towels are roughly the same size. A Z-fold paper dispenser is particularly suited to small spaces, as they are particularly narrow and therefore take up very little space.

 

 

 

W-fold

W-folded hand paper (also known as One Stop / Interfold) is folded in three and interlocked. This type of folding is therefore very easy to remove from the dispenser in a controlled manner. Unfolded, they are therefore larger than V- or Z-folded towels, and therefore very environmentally friendly. 1 to 2 wipes are often enough to dry your hands.

 

 

 

 

 

C-fold

C-fold paper towels are also available, folded at both ends. However, these paper towels are often only suitable for specific dispensers. The towels are only stacked, not folded into each other. As a result, several towels are often taken, often in excessive quantities.

 

Types of paper

Cellulose is the most common type of paper. It is a chemical fibrous material based on cellulose. Worldwide, 90% of this material is extracted from wood.
Recycled paper is much more environmentally friendly, as it is made from waste paper and cardboard and secondary fibers. It is often recognized by its slightly grayish color, as recycled paper is bleached less intensively. As a result, it not only preserves wood reserves, but also requires less energy and water to manufacture (around 50% less).
De-inked paper is recycled paper that has been bleached using special chemicals. If you want to use paper that’s as environmentally friendly as possible, it’s best to opt for untreated recycled paper.

Paper layers

As a rule of thumb:
The more layers, the nicer or softer and more absorbent the paper. Using several layers of paper can therefore considerably reduce consumption. But there are also types of paper which, thanks to special technologies, are thicker and therefore already highly absorbent with fewer layers. The size of the paper (unfolded) also plays a role, although hand towels are not necessarily unfolded when drying hands.

Summary

When purchasing paper towels, it’s generally important to pay attention to the dispenser’s characteristics. Some dispensers are only suitable for one type of folded paper. When looking for an alternative, the dimensions and properties of the paper towels used to date should be taken into account. When purchasing a new dispenser, the appropriate type of fold is usually indicated.

The number of layers of paper has an impact on consumption. Multi-ply paper can reduce consumption considerably. We also recommend the use of recycled paper, as its manufacture is much more environmentally friendly and sustainable.

We’ll be happy to advise you on this subject, so that you can find the paper towels best suited to your needs.