What’s better, Tissues or Napkins?

Getting that runny nose followed by a catastrophic sneeze is horrifying, even if we just think about it. And having to use that napkin over and over again, making you look like Rudolf, makes it worse. While we associate viral infections like cold and influenza (flu) with winters and cooler temperatures, they might not be directly related. It’s simple, we prefer staying indoors for longer periods of time in winters (wrapped in a cozy blanket having a hot beverage, aka a couch potato, but anyway that’s different) which causes the virus to get trapped and makes it spread amongst the family members more easily. It is important to not infect the other people around and follow the necessary steps for maintaining hygiene. But let’s look at one of the basic things: usage of tissues and napkins, and which one is better.

Napkins and handkerchief seem to be a better choice as it can be used for a long time and can be reused after washing it, and of course an environmentalist's choice. You don’t have to pay to use it each time, unlike when it comes to a tissue.

BUT

Using this handkerchief or napkin for the majority of the day while you blow your nose, sneeze, and cough into it, makes it moist and the virus and the germs accumulate in it. So whenever it is used, our hands are contaminated which can cause the infection to spread, infecting other people. This is mainly because we don’t use sanitizers everytime we pull out the handkerchief.

While it may be difficult to come to a conclusion about both of these, let’s take a look at what Dr. Aaseema Mugjenkar says,

"When you blow your nose, you are putting the virus into the tissue or handkerchief, keep in mind that touching your own used tissue or handkerchief won’t cause you any harm as you're already infected – but there's of course always the risk of infecting others.”

She also thinks,

"Tissues are hygienic because they can easily be disposed of; you are thereby also decreasing the chances of spreading the infection provided that no secretions have come into contact with your hands. However, if it happens, you need to wash or 'de-germ' them after blowing your nose,”

"Also keep in mind that if you use a cloth handkerchief, you are adding more virus-contaminated secretions every time you re-use it." she added.

"Another thing you need to be aware of is that each time you handle a handkerchief and then touch an object that others come into contact with – such as a doorknob or money – you are increasing the spread of infection," said Dr Mugjenkar.

"Tissues are more hygienic, but only if you ensure that you maintain hand hygiene as well."

We hope that following these simple yet effective things would lead to lesser infections.

Stay Safe!

Jiya Thakker

Bhuvee Jivangikar

SHARP