Paper towels are quite handy and convenient. Many reach out for a paper towel to clean up any mess, whether it is spilled juice or splattered sauce. However, the convenience and use of paper towels is limited. This is because some surfaces are not very responsive to paper-based cleaning wipes. Also, cleaning everything with these single-use items can be damaging, wasteful, and not environmentally friendly. Here are common things that shouldn’t be cleaned with paper towels.

Electronic gadgets
All paper towels have abrasive surfaces. Even the ones marketed as soft have some level of grainy texture. When used to wipe electronic gadgets, paper towels can leave behind micro-scratches. This happens explicitly when dust or grime is wiped off the screens of phones, tablets, laptops, or televisions. Opting for microfiber or suede cloth is better in such cases.

Windows and mirrors
It is common to use glass-cleaning solutions and paper towels to wipe dust and grime from windows and mirrors. However, the paper towels leave streaks and lint on the glass surfaces. So, it is better to use microfiber cloth, which is effective in keeping mirrors and windows sparkling clean. Moreover, using a cloth will not cause any wastage.

Dusty moldings
The surface of the architectural moldings around the house does not get cleaned even with the use of several paper towels, leading to paper wastage. In fact, there will be more mess to clean, including the residue of paper towels left behind. Therefore, the best way to clean these moldings is to vacuum, followed by the use of a sponge or gentle scrubber.

Carpets and rugs
It is easy to quickly reach out for a few paper towels to scrub off spills or stains from carpets or rugs. However, this may cause paper residue to remain within the carpeting or the rugs. This residue is hard to get rid of, even with a vacuum cleaner. Also, the paper towels are effective in wiping off the stains, as the spilled liquid will get deeper into the fabric. So instead, it is best to use a clean and dry cloth to blot the stains and spills.

Dinner plates
Wiping or dusting off dinner plates, cups, and other kitchen items with paper towels is not an effective way to clean them. Moreover, if these have been stored inside for a long time without any use, it is best to refrain from using paper towels to clean them. This is because the towel will leave behind particles on the plates and mugs. They will not clean off the dust quite well from the surfaces. Instead, use a damp kitchen towel to wipe any glassware.

Bathtubs
Using a paper towel to clean soap scum and residue in the shower, tub, or sink can leave behind lint and additional residue. Also, it might not effectively remove bacteria and other germs thriving on the surfaces of bathtubs and showers. Instead, one can use dish soap or a mild cleaner and wipe it off with a cloth or sponge to get rid of the grim and germs.