Paper towel holders are a must-have kitchen item loaded with lots of function. After all, their main job is to securely store paper towels, make it easier to tear off pieces, and serve as sturdy kitchen organizers.
It's important to check out the size of a paper towel holder, as this will often tell you the overall height or width (which is a must for knowing where in your kitchen to place it) and whether or not a paper towel holder is compatible with jumbo rolls.
That's why we searched every nook and cranny to find the best paper towel holders out there, while carefully considering material, durability, style, and type.
Our Top Picks
Best Value:
Best Countertop:
Best Wall-Mounted:
Best Under-Cabinet:
Best Decorative:
Most Colorful :
What We Like
Has a spring-activated arm to hold towels in place
Durable stainless steel construction
Durable enough for a variety of kitchen spaces
What We Don't Like
Too industrial for some kitchen needs
Our top pick for the best paper towel holder overall is the OXO Good Grips SimplyTear Paper Towel Holder for its versatile design, durability, and ease of use. This paper towel holder measures 7 x 7 x 13 inches and is constructed from a sturdy stainless steel material. Steel is one of the most durable and easy-to-clean materials for paper towel holders. Often, you can simply wipe down steel paper towel holders with a wet rag or even scrub them with some dish soap and a sponge for a deep cleanse.
We also like this OXO model because it has a floor mount design that works well in a variety of kitchen spaces, whether you are grabbing paper towels in your home kitchen or an industrial one.
One of our favorite features is the spring-activated arm, which holds the end of the paper towel in place and makes it easy to tear with one hand while you’re in the midst of cooking or cleaning. Additionally, this paper towel holder boasts a high-quality construction, so it’s an item you won’t need to replace often (if at all), and you’ll have it on hand for many years to come.
Dimensions: 7 x 7 x 13 inches | Type: Floor mount | Material: Stainless steel | Weight: 1.2 pounds
What We Like
Sleek design
Versatile for tabletop or wall-mounted
Galvanized steel
What We Don’t Like
Too lightweight for some
The IKEA TORKAD Paper Towel Holder is a go-to for value-friendly paper towel holders. After owning one ourselves, we can understand why. This paper towel holder costs under $5 and features a sleek, no-frills design that makes it versatile enough for any kitchen decor style. On top of that, it’s designed to be used as both a tabletop paper towel holder and a wall-mounted paper towel holder.
This 11-inch paper towel holder is constructed from a galvanized steel material. It’s also easy to wipe clean for a refresh, and it features a stationary arm that helps keep towels neat and tidy.
We also love that it's lightweight, too. While this might work for some preferences, those who need something that will stay secure might consider mounting this to the wall or going with a different option.
Dimensions: 11 inches tall | Type: Tabletop and wall-mounted | Material: Steel | Weight: Not listed
What We Like
Attractive design
Durable weighted base
Versatile stainless steel material
What We Don’t Like
Doesn’t have an arm
If you’re on the hunt for the best countertop paper towel holders, we recommend giving the OXO Good Grips Steady Paper Towel Holder a try. This tabletop paper towel holder measures 8.1 x 7.8 inches and is constructed from a durable stainless steel material that is versatile enough to pair with different kitchen decor styles (especially if you have stainless steel appliances).
While the holder doesn’t feature an arm, it does have a high-quality and durable weighted base that helps ensure it won’t tip over. It also features a non-slip grip that makes it easier to grab towels with one hand without the risk of toppling over.
Additionally, this OXO paper towel holder features a knob that the top designed to keep your towels in place while also providing an easy way to carry the holder around while cleaning, making it one of the best options for household tasks outside of cooking and cleaning up the kitchen.
Dimensions: 8.1 x 7.8 inches | Type: Tabletop | Material: Stainless steel | Weight: 1.9 pounds
What We Like
Easy to install
Lightweight design
Good resistance for tearing sheets
What We Don’t Like
The knob on the end looks a bit bulky
If you prefer to keep your paper towels off the counter and want the best wall-mounted paper towel holder, consider the Simplehuman Wall Mount Paper Towel Holder. This paper towel holder measures 4.9 x 13.1 inches, is constructed from a lightweight yet durable stainless steel material, and weighs under one pound, making it a great choice for a variety of surfaces, including cabinets, walls, and even tile.
Tension is one of the most important components to getting a good tear from a paper towel roll—especially when tearing with one hand. This model also provides enough resistance to allow you to tear away sheets with one hand without needing to push against the paper towel holder (which is, of course, ideal when using a wall-mounted design).
We aren’t big fans of the bulky knob on the end. However, this is what makes this towel holder so durable and user-friendly. Notably, it is a bit bigger (it's 4.9 x 13.1 inches) compared to others, so it prevents towels from traveling down the rod and potentially even flying off while rolling.
Dimensions: 4.9 x 13.1 inches | Type: Wall mount | Material: Stainless steel | Weight: 0.99 pounds
What We Like
Sleek design
Self-adhesive feature
Plenty of color options
What We Don’t Like
Knob is small
For those looking to keep their paper towels hidden, we recommend the Dr Catch Self-Adhesive Paper Towel Holder, which is our top pick for the best under-cabinet option. This stainless steel paper towel holder features a sleek and minimal design, comes in lots of different colors—including trendy brass, white, and even a pink option for something more kitschy—and weighs less than half a pound.
Outside of its style, this paper towel holder is our top pick because of its versatile mounting options. The holder comes with a self-adhesive sticker that allows you to stick the paper towel holder to your cabinet for something more renter-friendly, and it also features two holes in case you’d rather screw it in place, too.
Our only complaint is the knob. We love its sleek and modern look, but it’s not large enough to prevent traveling. So, if this is your pet peeve with paper towel holders, we recommend trying our best wall-mounted pick, the Simplehuman Wall Mount Paper Towel Holder, instead (just know that this one isn’t adhesive).
Dimensions: 13.2 x 3.5 inches | Type: Wall mount | Material: Stainless steel | Weight: 0.46 pounds
What We Like
Unique and decorative design
Handmade construction
Compact size
What We Don’t Like
Might not work well with all kitchen needs
For a more decorative option—and something truly unique—we recommend one of Cera Bien’s handmade paper towel holders, including this stunning floral option. These decorative paper towel holders are constructed from ceramic and feature a cylinder shape designed to hold paper towels in place without the look of a classic rod design.
Outside of style, these ceramic paper towel holders are a great option for those looking for something that will hold the roll of paper towel together and prevent the base from any moisture. And, for even more protection, you could opt for one of Cera Bien’s full-size paper towel racks—like this one—which has both a chic and functional design that helps protect the whole towel from elements.
Note: Since these are handmade pieces, their sizes may vary. If you tend to purchase jumbo rolls of paper towels, be sure to look specifically for the large paper towel holders (like this yellow one) to ensure you get the right size for your needs.
Dimensions: 6 inches (diameter) | Type: Tabletop | Material: Ceramic | Weight: Not listed
Best Magnetic
Yamazaki White Magnetic Kitchen Organization Rack
What We Like
Features a shelf and hooks for additional organization
Easy to keep clean
Durable magnets
What We Don’t Like
Might not fit all kitchen layouts
In addition to mounting your paper towel holders to walls and cabinets, you can also opt for a magnetic paper towel holder, designed to mount to the fridge and free up space. We love the Yamazaki White Magnetic Kitchen Organization Rack because it features a functional paper towel rack, has sturdy magnets, and is so much more than a paper towel holder.
On top of keeping paper towel holders nice and neat (and within reach while cooking), this magnetic rack features a shelf, a towel rack, and several hooks, allowing you to utilize vertical space and store your essential spices and cooking oils, kitchen towels, oven mitts, and large utensils together.
Outside of cooking, this paper towel holder is also a convenient spot for cleaning supplies and tools, especially the items you use every day and want to keep within reach.
Dimensions: 11.4 x 3.5 x 14.2 inches | Type: Magnet mounted | Material: Steel | Weight: Not listed
What We Like
Modern and colorful
Easy to clean
Built-in top shelf
What We Don't Like
May not fit jumbo rolls
For a burst of color, we're reaching for this steel paper towel holder from NewMade. We absolutely love that it comes in bright pretty hues, such as yellow, brass, pink, and white. The powder-coated finish makes it a cinch to clean, but imagine how stylish it'll look on your kitchen wall.
A big bonus is that the top of the holder acts as a mini shelf, so you can store a few fun trinkets, like a container of salt or a little bud vase.
Dimensions: 12 x 6 x 6 inches | Type: Wall-mounted | Material: Steel | Weight: Not listed
Final Verdict
Our best overall paper towel holder is the OXO Good Grips SimplyTear Paper Towel Holder for its durable and versatile design and spring-activated arm that holds towels in place, even when using one hand. Or consider the IKEA TORKAD Paper Towel Holder (our best value option), which costs under $5 and works as both a tabletop and wall-mounted option.
What to Look for in a Paper Towel Holder
Tabletop vs. Wall-Mounted Styles
When shopping for paper towel holders, the first two things to consider are the type and size you need. Paper towel holders come in tabletop and wall-mounted styles, though you can also find some with hybrid designs like the IKEA TORKAD Paper Towel Holder, our best value pick. Understanding what type you need will help you narrow down your selections and ensure you find one that will best fit your kitchen needs.
End Knobs, Handcrafted Designs, and Adhesive
For the most part, paper towel holders all feature similar design features, such as a rod that holds the paper towel in place and either a tabletop or wall-mounted base. However, design still matters as some more nuanced features can make a difference.
For example, if you can’t stand it when a paper towel roll travels along a mounted holder, look for one that has a large end knob—like the Simplehuman Wall Mount Paper Towel Holder, our best wall-mounted option—and is designed to keep everything in place without movement in unwanted directions.
If you prefer something with pizzazz, it’s worth browsing Etsy and other marketplaces for artisanal designs, such as our best decorative, the Cera Bien Paper Towel Holder, which boasts a unique design and is handcrafted from ceramic material. Or, for something more renter-friendly that also mounts to the wall or cabinet, consider paper towel holders with adhesive, like the Dr Catch Self-Adhesive Paper Towel Holder, our best under cabinet pick.
Ease of Use
As much as we want our paper towel holders to look nice in our kitchen, they must be functional. So, when shopping for a new paper towel holder, keep ease of use top of mind and consider specifics, such as design details that allow you to tear towels with one hand, and weighted bases that prevent countertop paper towel holders from toppling over. There are even unconventional options, such as a magnetic paper towel holder that also has a built-in shelf, towel rack, and hooks for cleaning or cooking supplies (we’re talking about the Yamazaki White Magnetic Kitchen Organization Rack (our best magnetic), of course).
Why Trust The Spruce?
Contributing writer Jessie Quinn covers everything from organizing solutions to home essentials for The Spruce. To find the best paper towel holders, Quinn researched dozens of options while carefully considering different types, designs, and uses. Throughout her research, she also considered each option’s materials, durability, style, and ease of use. Additionally, she made note of specific details, such as a spring-loaded arm or adhesive wall mount, to narrow down her selections.
Our Experts:
- Britnee Tanner, a Salt Lake City-based home organizer and minimalist
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