P

a

p

e

r

f

o

r

h

a

n

d

s

a

n

d

i

n

g

Cloth is less sensitive to tearing, withstands greater torsional forces than paper, and has a higher tensile strength. Paper is cheaper and performs the same function. However, if it gets snagged on the edge, it has a cutting effect and tears. Cloth does not have this issue and thus better withstands pressures.

Soft cloths are thinner and better adapt to uneven or rounded surfaces, while hard cloths are more robust and are therefore more intended for rough sanding.

Each manufacturer color codes their belts so they can be distinguished from the outside. Over time, trends have developed where, for example, green and blue colors are used for sanding stainless steel belts, red is for sanding iron. But this is not a written rule. Each manufacturer does this in their own way, so don't rely too much on the colors.