The first instinct one has after a spill is to look for paper towels to clean up the mess. These are convenient to use because they can absorb quite a bit of the liquid and be disposed of immediately. However, most people do not know that paper towels aren’t meant for all surfaces. Using them on the incorrect type could do more harm than good. Here are eight things one should not clean with paper towels. Carpets and rugs When soda or other liquids are spilled on the carpet or rug, one usually reaches for a paper towel, which is a mistake. While it may absorb some liquid, it will not do the job perfectly. Moreover, the towel itself might leave paper residue on the carpet, which is another mess to clean up. Another problem that may arise from cleaning carpets with paper towels is that scrubbing the stain might make the lint go deeper into the fibers, making it difficult to vacuum later. For such instances, one should use a clean, dry cloth to soak up the spill. After this, they must let the region dry and use a vacuum to extract any debris. The tub Individuals should avoid using paper towels to clean or remove residue from the bathtub because it could involve a ton of wastage and still not clean the area.

For the sake of convenience, many people turn to paper towels as a quick and disposable solution for various cleaning tasks, from wiping hands to tackling common household messes. While paper towels are undoubtedly versatile and convenient for spills and drying, there are specific surfaces and items that they may not be well-suited for. Here are some common areas that are best cleaned with other alternatives to ensure the best outcome of one’s cleaning efforts. Delicate glassware Paper towels may seem like a logical choice for cleaning glass surfaces due to their absorbency and lint-free nature. But they can leave behind tiny paper fibers and streaks when used on delicate glassware. These imperfections can affect their appearance and require additional cleaning to correct. Instead, one can opt to use microfiber or lint-free cloth specifically designed for streak-free glass cleaning. Windows and mirrors Like glassware, cleaning windows and mirrors with paper towels can result in lint residue. One can instead reach for eco-friendly alternatives like an old cotton t-shirt or a piece of microfiber cloth for a more effective cleaning solution. Electronic screens Modern homes are filled with electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computer monitors, all of which have sensitive screens.