Cloth Napkins Vs. Paper Napkins
No matter what you eat, chances are you will be using a napkin to blot your face or protect your clothing from stray crumbs and drips. Even though either a cloth or paper napkin will get the job done, comparing them reveals many differences and similarities that determine where they are used and the way they are perceived. Does this Spark an idea?
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History
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Cloth napkins were historically very large because they were designed for people who ate with their fingers. The first napkins, in the 1400s, were large cloths that hung on the side of the table for communal use. During the late 1400s, napkins were held by servants as they assisted with feasts and the napkins' positioning, usually over the left shoulder or arm, indicated the servant's status. In the 17th century, napkins were slightly small than three by four feet, and although large by today's standards were much smaller than napkins of prior eras. In the 18th century, the invention of the fork at first eliminated the need for napkins and later influenced the size of napkins to make them smaller.
In contrast to cloth napkins, Scott Paper first manufactured paper napkins in the 1930s, but they were not widely used until the 1950s. Paper napkins were sized for individual use.
Similarities
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Both cloth and paper napkins are primarily used to wipe faces and hands while eating. Today cloth and paper napkins are generally manufactured in dinner, luncheon and cocktail sizes. Regardless of whether they are cloth or paper, napkins come in a variety of patterns, textures and thicknesses, although cloth napkins are usually thicker than paper napkins.
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Differences
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Paper napkins may tear more easily than cloth ones and are designed to be thrown away after use. While a cloth napkin may be used with a permanent stain, paper napkins ensure that a user always receives a clean napkin. Cloth napkins need to be washed after use, but are sturdier and may provide better coverage for protecting clothing on the lap.
Environmental Concerns
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Many believe that paper napkins are not environmentally friendly. Nevertheless, it depends on the products used to make the paper napkins. Some paper napkins are made with recycled paper and without dyes, making them more environmentally conscious. Additionally, use of electricity and water may make it questionable as to which type of napkin is greener. The debate seems to be unanswered although there are proponents for both sides.
Napkin Use
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Generally, both types of napkins are used at the table and can be folded a variety of ways when the table is set. However, the cloth napkin is sometimes positioned over the left arm or shoulder of servers or sommeliers in better restaurants. This probably has its origin from napkins historically being positioned over servants' left shoulders or arms to denote their status. Paper napkins are generally not used in better restaurants in front of patrons. However, the versatility, low cost, and convenience of paper napkins make them widely used in casual restaurants, homes and outdoors.
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Comments
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MY GF thinks she is rich and gets upset over paper nakind.
