Here is my take:
I used the paper towel trick the first time I germinated a seed, it worked. I was happy. Grew the plant everything is good. Now want to grow more try the towel trick again for about 3-4 months on and off missing some, failing most. Here has what worked for me every time for my stinkbud system.
1. Take a shot glass fill half way with water (I ph to 5.8 prob don't need too though) then I drop 4 eyedroppets of H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide) in there. Put the seed or seeds in a warm dark place for 24-48 hours.
2. Check on em when they have 1/4" tap root I plant them in peat pellets in humidity dome for 3-4 days till sprout.
3. Off to my StinkBuddie.
This method I can confidently say is the most fool proof so far.