C-Fold vs Multifold
vs Roll Towels
The right paper towel saves money, reduces waste, and keeps restrooms stocked longer. Here's how to choose.
Which Paper Towel Type Is Right?
Select a towel type to see the full breakdown — fold style, dispenser compatibility, cost, and our picks.
Hardwound Roll
Continuous roll that feeds through a lever-action or automatic dispenser. User pulls to tear.
Advantages
- Lowest cost per hand dry
- Highest capacity — fewer refills
- Less waste (controlled dispensing)
- Touchless options available
- Available in 350 ft to 800 ft rolls
Limitations
- Requires specific dispenser
- Higher upfront dispenser cost
- Can jam if low quality
Best For
Shop Towels
Compatible Dispensers
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Hardwound Roll | Multifold (M-Fold) | C-Fold | Center-Pull | Kitchen Roll |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost/Towel | $0.008-0.015 | $0.007-0.010 | $0.009-0.012 | $0.010-0.014 | $0.015-0.020 |
| Sheet Size | 8" x custom length | 9.5" x 9.25" | 10" x 12" (unfolded) | 7.5" x 10" per sheet | 11" x 9" per sheet |
| Waste Control | |||||
| Capacity | |||||
| Touch Points | Low — lever or touchless | Low — single towel dispensing | Medium — sometimes pulls multiples | Very low — one-hand pull | High — open access |
| Dispenser Needed |
Best Pick by Industry
What we recommend based on traffic, budget, and hygiene requirements.
Office Buildings
Multifold or Hardwound RollMultifold for standard restrooms. Hardwound for high-traffic lobbies. Balance cost with professional appearance.
Restaurants
Center-Pull + Kitchen RollCenter-pull for prep areas (one-handed, hygienic). Kitchen roll for counters and quick cleanup.
Healthcare
Hardwound Roll (Touchless)Automated touchless dispensers reduce cross-contamination. High capacity handles 24/7 traffic.
Schools
Hardwound RollKids waste paper towels. Controlled dispensing limits use per pull and saves thousands per year.
Warehouses
Hardwound Roll (Natural)Natural/kraft rolls are cheaper and work fine where appearance doesn't matter. 800ft rolls reduce change-outs.
Property Management
MultifoldUniversal dispensers are already installed in most buildings. Multifold is the easiest drop-in replacement.
Switching from C-Fold to Multifold?
Most C-fold dispensers accept multifold towels without any modification. You'll get better single-towel dispensing, less waste, and the same or lower cost. It's the easiest upgrade in facility management.
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