This study reports the results of a prospective randomised controlled trial that compared three non-adherent wound dressings applied to hand surgery wounds. Paraffin-impregnated gauze (Jelonet) was compared with a cellulose, acetate fibre dressing coated with a petrolatum emulsion (Adaptic) and a polyamide net dressing impregnated with silicone gel (Mepitel). The dressings were assessed for their ease of application and removal, pain on removal and wound appearance. Results from 99 patients were available for analysis. Adaptic was significantly easier to remove (p < 0.01), required less soaking (p < 0.05), was less painful to remove (p < 0.05) and caused less wound maceration (p < 0.05) than Jelonet, but was significantly more difficult to apply (p < 0.05). Mepitel was also easier to remove but this did not reach statistical significance. It was also more difficult to apply than Jelonet (p < 0.05). We recommend that Adaptic should be used routinely as the non-adherent dressing for incisions or traumatic wounds on the hand. The slight increased difficulty in applying the dressing is outweighed by the major advantages associated with its removal.