Some "Sphagnum" mosses can absorb up to 20 times their own weight in water. In World War I, "Sphagnum" mosses were used as first-aid dressings on soldiers' wounds, as these mosses said to absorb liquids three times faster than cotton, retain liquids better, better distribute liquids uniformly throughout themselves, and are cooler, softer, and be less irritating. It is also claimed to have antibacterial properties. Native Americans were one of the peoples to use "Sphagnum" for diapers and napkins, which is still done in Canada.