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I've always sort of had a vague idea that hand dryers were better to use environmentally than paper towels, but the fact that this is actually written on some hand dryers has always made me suspicious. But considering how often I wash – and therefore dry – my hands at work (and generally choose the paper towel because it's faster), I finally decided to look it up.
One of my top go-to sources for questions like this is Umbra, the advice columnist at environmental news site grist.org. She agrees with the hand-dryer companies: they're the better choice when it comes to going green. So from now on, I'm going to try my best to use the dryer instead of the paper towel. (It's less drying on your hands, too.)
At home, of course, I assume you're all using proper towels to dry your hands, rather than paper towels. And for the odd occasion when you need to use a paper towel, don't forget to buy unbleached and recycled.
What are some of the little, everyday things you do to go greener? What are your thoughts on paper towels and hand dryers?
Today's code word: wash
Read more:
• Free 52-week green-living plan
• 10 ways to conserve water in your home
• Healthy home: How to improve indoor air quality
