When cleaning up blood, it is generally recommended to use disposable paper towels rather than cloth towels. Paper towels can be safely discarded after use, which minimizes the risk of cross-contamination and infection. Cloth towels, on the other hand, can harbor pathogens and require laundering, which poses additional risks. However, some sources note that cloth towels offer benefits such as greater absorbency, durability (less likely to tear when saturated), and environmental sustainability when properly handled. Cloth towels can soak up more blood and can be laundered and reused, making them cost-effective and reducing waste. But this advantage is mainly relevant in controlled healthcare or professional environments where strict protocols, including personal protective equipment (PPE) use and proper laundering with disinfectants, are followed. In summary:
- For safety and hygiene, disposable paper towels are preferred for blood cleanup to avoid pathogen spread.
- In some professional or healthcare contexts, cloth towels may be used if they are handled with rigorous safety measures, including PPE, disinfection, and proper laundering.
Thus, unless you can ensure proper handling and disinfection, paper towels are the safer and generally recommended choice for cleaning up blood spills.
