Napkin is one of the essentials, whether we admit it or not, during meal times. It has been in existence for centuries now and is still part of dining tables everywhere, from formal restaurants and home gatherings to fast-food joints. Napkins come in cloth and paper but until 1887 when John Dickenson first introduced paper napkin in the United States only those made from cloth were used. Paper napkins had it rough in its early stages because as with other things people are not comfortable with change; however, slowly but surely the paper napkin stood its ground and at present it is arguably the most popular kind of napkin.
The rise in popularity and acknowledgement of paper napkins came because more and more people realized that using paper napkins have numerous benefits such as the following:
- Savings – paper napkins are much cheaper than cloth napkins not only on initial purchase but in the long run. Using cloth napkins will incur laundry, ironing, and other maintenance cost while paper napkins can be bought in bulk and in much lower price.
- Variety – paper napkins come in a wide array of colors, designs, patterns, and texture. Regardless of personality or preference, there is a particular paper napkin that is suitable for one’s particular taste. There are also a lot of paper napkins that are customized to fit any occasion making any gathering memorable and eventful.
- Versatility – paper napkins can be shaped, arranged, and be treated like any other cloth napkins. Since it can hold its own shape, it is much easier to customize to fit any event.
- Convenience – for busy individuals who no longer have the spare time to wash, iron and keep cloth napkins, paper napkins are the best since there is no cleaning up required; one just needs to buy, use and throw away.
- Environment-friendly – paper napkins are biodegradable which means it can readily decompose and be part of the soil.
- Advertising medium – since paper napkins can be customized in terms of design and even text, any person or organization can print their contact information, company logo, and other interesting sales pitches to a bunch of paper napkins and the same could be passed around for people to notice.
There is no denying that paper napkins are here to stay. For as long as people are dining and need quick clean ups paper napkins will always be in demand. They maybe cheap and less fancy than cloth but its advantages cannot be undermined.