What is the most hygienic method of drying hands is to use a clean towel?

The Most Hygienic Way to Dry Your Hands

When it comes to hand hygiene, most of us focus on washing—but how we dry our hands matters just as much. Surprisingly, the method you choose can significantly impact how many germs are left behind.

According to new independent research, the most hygienic way to dry your hands is with a single-use paper towel. Unlike hand dryers, which can circulate airborne bacteria, or shared cloth towels, which may harbor microbes, disposable paper towels offer a clean surface every time. The act of rubbing your hands dry with a paper towel also helps remove residual bacteria, adding an extra layer of cleanliness.

They’re not only more effective at removing moisture quickly, but they also minimize cross-contamination. Once used, they’re discarded, eliminating the risk of picking up someone else’s germs. In high-traffic places like public restrooms, this is especially important for reducing the spread of viruses.

While reusable towels may seem eco-friendly, they only stay sanitary if washed frequently—a condition rarely met outside of tightly controlled environments. In contrast, single-use towels provide consistent hygiene with every use.

This doesn’t mean every hand-drying method is equal. Air dryers, especially high-speed models, have improved over the years, but studies still show they can disperse microbes into the air and onto surfaces. Paper towels, on the other hand, physically remove pathogens and trap them in the fibers, taking them out of circulation when thrown away.

So next time you wash your hands, consider the finish: a clean, single-use towel isn’t just a detail—it’s a crucial step in staying truly clean. When hygiene is the goal, paper towels come out on top.