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How to use one paper towel | Joe Smith | TEDxConcordiaUPortland

How to use one paper towel | Joe Smith | TEDxConcordiaUPortland

TEDx Talks
3 HN recommenders · discussed 2016–2025
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About this video

A short TEDx talk by Joe Smith teaching how to dry your hands with a single paper towel. It shows a simple technique for cutting waste.

Why it appears in the archive

HN treats it as a tiny practical life hack some adopt for good, while others mock it as peak TED.

AI-generated summary and labels from the source dataset; verify important details against the video. Source & credits.

From the Hacker News discussion

snowwrestler · 2025-02 · strong rec

Best TED talk I’ve seen: [VIDEO] I think about this every time I wash my hands in a public restroom with paper towels.

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leto_ii · 2019-11 · rec

Two quick things from back when TED talks were actually interesting/useful: 1. How to tie your shoes the right way (so the knot doesn't come undone): [LINK] 2. How to dry your hands with a single paper towel (so that you prevent unnecessary waste): [VIDEO]

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Someone1234 · 2021-04 · rec

People are very negative about these kinds of TED talks, but I actually improved my hand drying technique after the TEDx on it: [VIDEO] That and using the back of my hand/arm to push off the water from my body after a shower keep our towels much dryer and nicer.

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nytesky · 2025-01 · reference

He should have been shaking his hands while waiting for it to dispense. Then he could use just one towel. [VIDEO]

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minikites · 2016-02 · critical

This banned TED talk is all you need to know about TED and where their motivations are: [LINK] Peak TED is actually this video on how to use one paper towel when washing your hands: [VIDEO] . You mean if you shake your hands and fling water all over the bathroom then you don't need as much paper to absorb the remaining water? How revolutionary.

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