Paper napkins or paper towels for the dinner table?

Compare a serving, not a pack

For casual meals, count pieces used per person rather than comparing a napkin pack with a towel roll by package price. Fold size, layer count and sheet dimensions can vary substantially between products.

Calculate the piece you use

If you use half a towel as a napkin, calculate the cost per half sheet and compare it with one napkin. Do not assume the cheapest pack wins when a thin option causes everyone to use several pieces.

Check your local waste service

Used or food-soiled paper should not be mixed into clean paper recycling without local permission. Disposal rules vary. Check the current list from your municipal waste service for both plain and food-soiled paper.

Before you decide

• Note the actual sheet dimensions.
• Count how many pieces people take.
• Keep food-soiled paper out of clean recycling unless accepted.