Towels, chamois, and some nail files and buffers are examples of which type of items?

• A. Non-porous items
• B. Porous items
• C. Multi-use items
• D. Re-usable items

Answer: (B)

Porous items have tiny openings that absorb liquids. Towels and chamois fit this because they soak up moisture, and their fibers can trap organic matter, making thorough disinfection between clients difficult. Some nail files and buffers are porous too, especially those made from foam, fabric, or leather; their structure can harbor contaminants and hinder complete sanitization. That’s why they’re classified as porous items. Non-porous items are smooth and don’t absorb liquids, so they’re easier to clean and disinfect fully. The terms multi-use or reusable describe how many clients an item serves, not its absorbency.