Originally Posted by 24left

Cost benefit analysis. Exactly.

I recently did a series of multiple flights on SQ, QF, EY, LX, TK and of course AC.

SQ has unique wash-cloth type towels (like the ones I've used on NH and BR) and you only need one. They had a separate disposal for those. Since they can be washed, perhaps there are savings. Added plus: they are not AC sandpaper.

QF, EY, LX and TK all had variation of a nice white paper towel with a bit of a cloth feel. Again, one of these towels was all that was needed.

Bonus points: indeed, with all the other airlines listed above, only one single cloth or towel was needed and used.