How to Test the Absorption of Paper Towels

Method One

• 1

  Fasten the embroidery hoop around the paper towel. With a marker, draw a 2-inch circle in the center of the hoop.

• 2

  Use an eyedropper to add drops of water within the center of the drawn circle. Count the drops as you add them, until the circle is completely full. The paper towel that absorbs the least amount of drops is the most absorbent.

• 3

  Measure the time water takes to fill the drawn circle of a paper towel.

• 4

  For another way to test absorbency, place another paper towel in the embroidery hoop and draw a 2-inch circle in the center.

• 5

  Squeeze water from the eyedropper one drop at a time and record the amount of time it takes for the water to spread out to the edges of the circle. The shorter the time, the more absorbent the paper towel will be.

Method Two

• 6

  Place three bowls on a table. Label each bowl with the brand or type of paper towel being tested.

• 7

  Measure 3 tbsp. of water into each bowl. Fold a paper towel and place in each bowl.

• 8

  Take out paper towels and measure the remaining water left in the bowl. The bowl with the least amount of water has the most absorbent towel.