March 24th, 2006, 12:34 pm

Paper Towel technique

The following is an actual thread of emails sent around the office today.

The problem

Removal of paper towels from the holders in the bathroom.

These are the solutions.

Subject: paper towel removal technique

Date: March 24, 2006 11:28:11 AM EST

Guys

This wasn’t high on my priority list today, but someone urged me to do it

Ya know how it’s difficult to remove the paper towels in the bathroom, when the dispenser is full.

Try this technique

Use both hands. Grab the edge of the paper towel with your thumb and index fingers. Use your middle fingers to push down on the pile, and simultaneously, pull up on the towel your holding on to. This technique works well for me.

I understand L has an alternate technique. Maybe she’ll share it with us.

Thanks, T.

technique #1

Subject: Re: paper towel removal technique

Date: March 24, 2006 11:34:10 AM EST

If I think of it, I take out the towels BEFORE I actually wash my hands. If I try to take them out with wet hands, they usually come apart in damp shreds.

technique #2

Subject: Re: paper towel removal technique

Date: March 24, 2006 11:38:43 AM EST

Yes, but my technique is patented (#87654321 if you need to look it up), so don’t let me catch you sharing…

If you press down on the stack slightly and then lift from the top edge rather than the side, you can typically pull them out fully rather than tearing them, which I’ve found happens when you pull from the sides. It only takes a simple push w/ one hand and a pull with the other, which is far easier (and therefore superior) to T’s.

technique #4

Subject: Re: paper towel removal technique

Date: March 24, 2006 11:48:16 AM EST

Okay, the only tried & true functional methodology is to reach your hand down the side of the stack & pull out 20-30 towels, thus aiding the next 10-20 people who come in after you. This technique may prove to be a wee dangerous, and only recommended for those with larger, stronger hands. Are we really talking about this?

technique #5

Creative Loafing

Shelter from pulling out papertowels in a messy fashion

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