It takes three of the paper towels in my work bathroom to dry hands.
Depending on how those three paper towels are used, the washer’s hands will either end up bone-dry or almost dripping wet.
The instinct is to crumple the paper towels into a big ball, and use them all at once.
But that defeats the purpose of the thin paper towel.
If you want your hands to end up dry, use the first towel to capture most of the water and dispose of it (it will be dripping wet). Use the next towel in a similar fashion (it will be slightly wet). Finally, use the third towel to capture any residual moisture (it will still seem almost dry when you’re done).
Process matters.
-Brandon