Paper towels are a convenient cleaning tool, but they’re not always suitable for every surface or task. In some cases, using paper towels on certain materials can cause unsightly scratches, leave behind pesky lint, or, at the very least, produce lackluster results. To preserve the condition of your items and make your cleaning efforts productive, it’s important to know what to avoid using paper towels on. So, before gathering your cleaning products and a fresh roll of paper towels, review this list of items you should never clean with them, along with alternative methods to make your entire home look polished.

1. Glass

Paper towels might seem safe for cleaning glass, but they’re far from your best option. Paper towels tend to leave a linty residue, making glass furniture, windows, and mirrors look dusty. Rather than lifting dirt and grime, paper towels tend to push debris around and can also cause streaking, making it impossible to achieve the clear finish you desire.

You likely have at least one of the following alternatives in your home that are much better suited for cleaning glass. First, microfiber cloths are non-abrasive, trap dust, and are much more eco-friendly than paper towels. If you don’t have soft, reusable cloths on hand (or, at least, none that are clean at the moment), another economical choice is old newspapers. They won’t harm glass or mirrors, and they won’t leave any residue. However, the ink might stain your hands, so always wear gloves during the task. Lastly, a squeegee will also give glass a streak-free shine and is ideal for cleaning hard-to-reach spots.

2. Stainless Steel

Like glass, paper towels can leave lint on stainless-steel surfaces, causing them to look dull and drab instead of sleek and shiny. Additionally, paper towels aren’t great at removing tough stains, such as fingerprint smudges or grease buildup, which often accumulates on appliance handles. Fortunately, stainless steel responds well to microfiber cloths. If you are dealing with stubborn marks, use a soft cloth and a commercial stainless-steel cleaner. While fine-grade steel wool should never be used on indoor appliances and countertops, some outdoor stainless steel items can withstand a light buffing with the material.

3. Delicate Dishes

Grabbing a paper towel to dry off a dish or glass can work in a pinch, but it’s less than ideal, especially if you’re handling crystal or fine china. Aside from the fiber residue, the slightly rough texture of some paper towels can cause tiny tears on delicate dishware. So, not only does this raise slight sanitary concerns, but your family heirlooms will begin to lose their luster and clarity. Play it safe and stick to a non-abrasive sponge to clean hand-wash-only dishes and either allow them to air-dry or lightly dry them with a soft, microfiber cloth.

4. Nonstick Cookware

Cleaning messy cookware, including nonstick pots and pans, can be challenging. Paper towels on smooth, nonstick surfaces might only smear grease instead of lifting and removing it. Applying extra force while scrubbing with a paper towel can also scratch the protective coating, leading to the need to replace cookware more frequently. Instead, use the same cleaning and drying technique as with delicate dishes, relying on a soft sponge and cloth to get the job done.

5. Wood 

Believe it or not, wood is also susceptible to scratches from the texture of a paper towel. Cleaning finished wood surfaces and furniture with paper towels can compromise the coating and, over time, lessen their overall appearance. As with most other items on this list, wood can also appear dusty after you clean with a paper towel, thanks to the left-behind lint. When polishing wood, you can’t go wrong with a microfiber cloth or a feather duster, which both trap debris instead of spreading it.

6. Leather

Leather requires unique care and maintenance, so it should come as no surprise that you should avoid cleaning it with paper towels. Similarly to wood, paper towels can eventually etch tears into leather, causing premature wear and tear. They can also cause leather to dry out and dull. Keep your leather furniture looking its best by using a soft cloth and a specialty leather cleaner.

7. Electronics

Avoid using paper towels to clean computer and TV screens, camera lenses, and even your car’s dashboard. They can leave behind lint and potentially scratch these fragile surfaces. Since these items are usually an investment, it’s worth it to clean them the proper way. A microfiber cloth is generally safe for electronics, but you can also use screen wipes, a lens cleaning kit, or a chamois cloth.