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Unfolding the C Folds in Your Washroom

14 November 2024

Jennie Hollingsworth

How well do you know your paper towels and the common folds like C fold, Z fold, or multi fold? At phs Direct, we’re the experts in all things washroom related, and that includes paper towels. C fold towels have become a popular choice in washrooms and other workplace settings, but what exactly are they?
Let’s dive into the details and tell you everything you need to know about C fold towels – including why they might be the perfect fit for your washroom.

What are C fold towels?

C fold towels are a type of disposable paper towel, designed with the edges folded inwards, forming a ‘C’ shape, and are essentially folded in half. This unique style means they lie flat when stacked but open easily for use. You will usually find them in public washrooms and workplaces where quick, efficient hand drying is essential. The name comes from the folding design, which makes them easy to dispense and store, making them ideal for ordering in large quantities.

Where would you find C fold towels?

C fold towels are generally found in high traffic areas such as public toilets, offices, restaurants, hospitals, and schools. Their sturdy design makes them ideal for any environment where hygiene, efficiency, and cost effectiveness are key. You’ll usually find them housed within dispensers near sinks, allowing people to easily grab a towel after washing their hands.

Why are they folded into a C shape?

The C shape fold allows the folded paper towels to be stacked neatly while keeping them compact. This design ensures the towels remain flat, which maximises storage space in dispensers. The C fold also helps to prevent multiple towels from being dispensed at once, helping to reduce waste. By keeping the towels compact and easy to handle, this fold ensures convenience for both users and cleaning staff.

How do C fold towels work in the dispenser?

C fold towels are placed into specially designed paper towel dispensers, which are typically mounted onto washroom walls near the sink. When a user pulls on a towel, the design ensures only one towel is dispensed at a time, which is more efficient and prevents unnecessary waste. The towel can be easily pulled out without tearing, making it convenient for users who need quick access to a hygienic hand drying solution.

What is the difference between C fold towels and other paper towels?

C folds differ from other fold types like Z fold (or multi fold) and single fold towels.

C fold towels

C fold paper towels lie flat in a stack and are pulled from the dispenser by hand. They are ideal for high traffic areas and tend to have a more durable feel due to their thickness.

Z fold towels


Z fold towels, also known as interfold towels, are interlocked, so one towel automatically pulls out the next, making them more hands free. These are often considered more hygienic since users don’t need to touch the next towel in the stack.

Single fold towels

Single fold towels are simply folded but tend to be bulkier, requiring more space in the dispenser.

C fold towels typically offer greater durability and absorbency compared to thinner, multi fold towels. They also fit well into dispensers designed for higher capacity, which is useful in busy settings. Their flat design also makes them stackable, saving space both in storage and in the dispenser.

Why C fold towels make a difference to your washroom

C fold paper towels bring several benefits to your washroom. Their thickness and absorbency mean fewer towels are needed for each use, reducing both waste and the frequency of refilling the dispenser. The clean, compact look of C fold towels in a dispenser also enhances the professional appearance of the space.


In busy environments, C fold paper towels offer a convenient, hygienic solution that users can rely on. Whether you manage an office, restaurant, or public space, choosing the right type of paper towel, like the C fold, can make all the difference in creating a washroom that is not only functional but is cost effective and environmentally friendly too.

Fulfil your paper towel needs with phs Direct

Whichever type of paper towel you choose, you can be sure that phs Direct has you covered. As part of our consumables contract, you can get free c fold paper towel dispensers with your paper towels. Our service means you’ll never run out of paper towels, thanks to a delivery schedule based on your needs. We provide a range of dispensers that come in different sizes, catering for washrooms, cleaning stations and kitchens of different sizes. Each of our dispensers provide a single sheet at a time, helping you avoid cross contamination, and limit wastage for a cleaner, more efficient washroom.


You can buy our c fold towels in blue and white in different quantities at a great price. Why not take a closer look at our selection of hand drying products and make sure your space is kitted out with everything you need for a clean and pleasant washroom?

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