Reusable vs. Disposable Shop Towels

The debate is over whether reusable or disposable shop towels are more beneficial. The Industrial Wiper Rule is in its final stages, awaiting the final seal of approval from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). A battle Textile Rental Services Association (TRSA), and other reusable advocates, have been fighting since 2003 for this law to be enacted.

Disposable users have long claimed that reusable towels and wipers pose health risks, while studies showcase that reusable towels are safe, and the more efficient, cost-effective, sustainable option.

Reusables are sorted, handled, processed, finished and monitored by commercial launderers that have earned certifications for their safe practices, including Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations and standards set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), among other highly accredited research and testing facilities.

Roscoe is proud to be among those industrial launderers whose system removes any unwanted and hazardous waste. In fact, it was the first laundry in the world to install this system in the early 70s, on top of having the longest running record of compliance with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWDA).

It is a relief to expose the disadvantages of using disposables: environmentally unsafe, costly, poor performance, and as hazardous as the waste it carries.

To find out more information check out TRSA’s article The Truth about Shop Towels.

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