What are the different types of paper towel holders?

Although they all serve the same function, there is lots of variety in the types of paper towel holders. Some of the most common types include the traditional vertical countertop style with a circular or square base that either has a screwball on top to secure the paper towel roll in place or is one solid piece that can just slide off. Other styles have a tension arm that keeps towel ends in place, or a spindle that helps keep things neat and tidy. “For users that don’t want to see their paper towels are ready when they walk into the kitchen, there are also wall-mounted paper towel rods that can be nailed or adhered to flat surfaces using strong adhesives,” says Caroline Dockery, a professional organizer who runs her own business, Categorically Caroline. “These can be hung on the side of cabinetry near the sink, under countertop overhangs, and underneath upper cabinets.”

How much does a paper towel holder typically cost?

The costs of paper towel holders range, however, you likely won’t spend (or don’t need to spend) more than $50 on one. While you can find them for less, our top pick for a high-quality and budget-friendly paper towel holder is the BODING Countertop Paper Towel Holder . For a more high-end paper towel holder, you can expect to pay between $25 and $40 for a paper towel holder.

The 10 Best Paper Towel Holders

Commerce Photo Composite — The Spruce / Zackary Angeline

Paper towel holders are a must-have kitchen item loaded with lots of function—after all, their job is to securely store paper towels, make it easier to tear off pieces, and serve as sturdy kitchen organizers. “They are simple yet so helpful in keeping paper towels contained and helping them look polished in the kitchen,” says Britnee Tanner, a professional organizer in Utah.

While they are designed to take up a relatively small footprint, paper towel holders support important tasks in the kitchen, such as meal prep, major cleanups, and tidying. “In addition, with the dwindling use of formal cloth napkins, some people use paper towels as napkins while eating,” says Caroline Dockery, a professional organizer who runs her own business, Categorically Caroline.

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 Overall:

OXO Good Grips SimplyTear Paper Towel Holder at Amazon

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Best Budget:

Oboding Paper Towel Holder at Amazon

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Best Under Cabinet:

Simplehuman Wall-Mount Paper Towel Holder at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Wall-Mounted:

Umbra Wall Mounted Paper Towel Holder at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Magnetic:

Container Store Magnetic Stainless Steel Paper Towel Rack at The Container Store

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Best Wooden:

Lipper International Acacia Standing Towel Holder at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Countertop:

OXO Good Grips Steady Paper Towel Holder at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Decorative:

CB2 Acrylic Paper Towel Holder at CB2

Jump to Review

Best Classic:

Umbra Paper Towel Holder at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Self-Adhesive:

LISM Self-Adhesive Paper Towel Holder at Amazon

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look for
FAQ
Why Trust The Spruce

4.8

OXO Good Grips SimplyTear Standing Paper Towel Holder

Amazon

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What We Like

Durable, sturdy construction
Spring arm to keep towels in place
Weighted base
Freestanding, so it can go anywhere

What We Don't Like

Not as stylish
Only comes in a stainless steel and black finish

For a classic, but reliable freestanding paper towel holder, our vote is for the OXO Good Grips SimplyTear Paper Towel Holder. This holder is one of the most functional on our list, thanks to its spring arm that keeps towels in place and makes it even easier to rip a piece of paper towel off with one hand.

It has a weighted base so it’s sturdy and durable, making it a great choice for at-home chefs or those who tend to “grab-and-go” with paper towels. Although the paper towel holder isn’t the most stylish option and is only available in a stainless steel and black finish, it’s incredibly useful and can make a major difference in the kitchen.

Price at time of publish: $26

_{Dimensions: 13 x 7 x 7 inches | Weight: 1.2 pounds | Material: Alloy steel | Installation Type: Freestanding | Assembly Required: Not listed}

Expert Buying Tip

“Before style, it’s important to consider function. Pick a model that is easy to load. Having to remove the top to take the roll on and off can become a real nuisance.” —Jennifer Du Bois, professional organizer and founder of Organized by Jen D

Amazon

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What We Like

Available in three metal finishes
Simple design
Freestanding, so it can go anywhere

What We Don’t Like

Might be a little too lightweight

If you’re on a budget, you can still get a fantastic paper towel holder that functions well and looks great. Our top pick for the best budget-friendly paper towel holder is the OBODING Countertop Paper Towel Holder, which features a simple, minimalist design and costs less than $10. In addition to its budget-friendly price, the paper towel holder has a sleek, freestanding design that goes well with almost any decor, and it comes in three metal finishes, including black, silver, and brass.

Due to the nature of its design, it might be a little too lightweight for some—especially those who like to grab paper towels with one hand—but it gets the job done for a fraction of the cost of its counterparts.

Price at time of publish: $10

_{Dimensions: 12.5 x 6.3 x 6.3 inches | Weight: 249 grams | Material: Metal | Installation Type: Freestanding | Assembly Required: No}

simplehuman Wall-Mount Paper Towel Holder

The Container Store

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What We Like

Lightweight yet durable construction
Design features an end stop to keep the roll in place
Easy to install
Doesn’t take up counter space

What We Don’t Like

May be tricky to change the paper towel roll
Doesn’t come with an adhesive option

If you're tight on space and prefer a wall-mounted option, the simplehuman Wall-Mount Paper Towel Holder is our top pick as a solid under-the-cabinet paper towel holder. This durable option is constructed from stainless steel and plastic, is easy to install under cabinets (or on the wall if you prefer), and is durable enough for one-handed towel pulls.

Whether you hide it in a cabinet or leave it out on the wall, we love Simplehuman's design because it has an end-stop feature that keeps the paper towel roll in place and a quick-release button for removal when it’s time to load a new roll. This feature makes it so you don’t have to worry about the paper towel roll flying off the side when grabbing towels in a hurry.

Price at time of publish: $30

_{Dimensions: 13.1 x 3 x 4.9 inches | Weight: Not listed | Material: Stainless steel | Installation Type: Wall mount | Assembly Required: No}

Umbra Cappa Wall Mounted Paper Towel Holder

Amazon

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Sleek, minimal design
Available in a variety of metal finishes
Easy to install

Doesn’t have an end stop

If you want to create a floating paper towel look on the wall, the Umbra Cappa Wall Mounted Paper Towel Holder is our top pick. This model features a sleek, barely-there design that doesn’t take up a lot of space and comes in a variety of metal finishes, including brushed nickel, black, bronze, and chrome.

While it doesn’t have an end stop, which could be an issue for one-handed or quick grabs, the holder is durable on the wall, easy to install, and well-made, so it’ll last a long time.

Price at time of publish: $20

_{Dimensions: 14.05 x 3.82 x 2.75 inches | Weight: 0.45 pounds | Material: Nickel | Installation Type: Wall mount | Assembly Required: No}

Container Store

View On The Container Store

What We Like

Features a sleek industrial design
Sturdy magnets that keep it in place
Made from rust-proof stainless steel

What We Don’t Like

Might not be a fit for every home decor
Only available in chrome color

Magnetic paper towel holders are excellent space savers, allowing you to secure them to a fridge, dishwasher, or metal door. Our top pick for the best magnetic paper towel holder is the Magnetic Stainless Steel Paper Towel Rack from the Container Store, which features an industrial-looking design that is sleek and space-saving.

This paper towel holder is designed with two heavy-duty magnetic discs, so it stays put in a secure manner. It’s constructed from rust-proof stainless steel so it will stay looking good as new—no matter the wear and tear.

Price at time of publish: $25

_{Dimensions: 11.25 x 4 x 6 inches | Weight: Not listed | Material: Stainless steel | Installation Type: Magnetic wall mount | Assembly Required: No}

Lipper International Acacia Standing Towel Holder

Target

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What We Like

Contemporary design with mass appeal
Upright spindle, making it easier to tear towels
Made from durable acacia wood

What We Don’t Like

Base isn’t weighted

If a wooden paper towel holder is more your style, the Lipper International Acacia Standing Towel Holder is worth considering. This sleek paper towel holder features a contemporary design that is versatile enough for a variety of home decor preferences and styles, including mid-century modern and even rustic.

Design-wise, it features an upright spindle next to the towel holder, which makes tearing off towels even easier. It’s also made from a durable acacia wood material that wears well over time and is easy to clean. The base of the paper towel holder isn’t weighted, so it might be a little too lightweight for some, however, it's still a durable option, especially if you prefer the warmth of wood over stainless steel and other metallic finishes.

Price at time of publish: $20

_{Dimensions: 14.25 x 7.125 x 7.125 Inches | Weight: 1 pound | Material: Acacia wood | Installation Type: Free-standing | Assembly Required: No}

OXO Good Grips Steady Paper Towel Holder

Amazon

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What We Like

Weighs just under 2 pounds, making it sturdy and durable
Beautiful brushed metal finish
Non-slip base so it stays put on the countertop
Freestanding

What We Don’t Like

Design might be too modern
Doesn’t feature an arm or spindle for paper towel ends

Constructed with a weighted and non-slip base, this countertop paper towel holder might just be the sturdiest one on our list. Our top pick for the best countertop category, the OXO Good Grips Steady Paper Towel Holder weighs just under 2 pounds and features a raised lip at the base to keep towels contained.

It has a stunning brushed metal finish and sleek design that goes well in most modern kitchens (although it might be a little too modern for some styles).

Price at time of publish: $22

_{Dimensions: 8.1 x 7.8 inches | Weight: 1.94 pounds | Material: Stainless steel | Installation Type: Freestanding | Assembly Required: No}

CB2

View On CB2

What We Like

Constructed from a sleek acrylic material
Easy to clean and only requires a quick wipe down
Durable design that is ultra-chic yet functional

What We Don’t Like

Doesn’t feature an arm or spindle for securing paper towel ends

If you’re shopping for a paper towel holder with looks in mind, our top pick for the best decorative option is the CB2 Acrylic Paper Towel Holder. This countertop option is constructed from a high-quality acrylic material that is ultra-chic with a modern and sophisticated feel.

While it doesn’t feature an arm or spindle to keep paper towel ends in place, it’s still incredibly durable and functional, making it a great choice for stylish kitchens.

Price at time of publish: $35

_{Dimensions: 13 x 6.75 inches | Weight: Not listed | Material: Acrylic | Installation Type: Free-standing | Assembly Required: No}

The 10 Best Lid Organizers of 2023

Umbra

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What We Like

Features a simple, classic design
Weighted base so it’s ultra-sturdy
Easy to clean

What We Don’t Like

Doesn’t come in other colors and metal finishes
Doesn’t have an arm

For a classic paper towel holder, look no further than the Umbra Teardrop Paper Towel Holder. This freestanding paper towel holder is constructed from cast metal with a brushed nickel finish and features a simple and classic design.

While we love the way it looks, what makes it truly stand out is its weighted base, which makes it ultra-sturdy and easy to quickly tear off paper towels while cooking and cleaning without worrying about it tipping over. It’s also easy to clean and requires just a simple wipe-down and has a minimalist look that would pair well with most kitchen styles.

Price at time of publish: $26

_{Dimensions: 6.75 x 6.75 x 13.38 inches | Weight: 1.54 pounds | Material: Metal | Installation Type: Freestanding | Assembly Required: Not listed}

The 13 Best Kitchen Cabinet Organizers of 2023

Amazon

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What We Like

Comes in several different finishes
Available in a single holder or a two-pack
Has a strong adhesive bond that feels sturdy

What We Don’t Like

Might feel too lightweight

If you are renting and want an under-the-cabinet paper towel holder, but want to avoid adding holes to your kitchen cabinets, the LISM Self-Adhesive Paper Towel Holder is our top pick. This paper towel holder comes with a durable self-adhesive sticker that attaches and secures easily under cabinets for the look without the commitment.

We love it because, although it boasts a modern feel that might not be a fit for all kitchen styles, the paper towel holder comes in a variety of metallic finishes—including black, brass, silver, and rose gold—and is easy to install. The L-shaped design makes it so you can either add it under your cabinets or against the wall in an upright position. If you want the option to screw it into the wall or cabinets, the paper towel holder features two small holes that make that possible.

Price at time of publish: $18

_{Dimensions: 3.9 x 13.38 inches | Weight: 7.4 ounces | Material: Stainless steel | Installation Type: Self-adhesive, screw-in | Assembly Required: No}

The 13 Best Drawer Organizers of 2023

Final Verdict

If you’re shopping for a countertop paper towel holder that is ultra-sturdy and has a spring arm to keep paper towel ends intact, the OXO Good Grips SimplyTear Paper Towel Holder is our best overall pick. In addition to its design, it has a weighted base so it stays put on countertops making it even more durable. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the OBODING Countertop Paper Towel Holder, which is available for less than $10. This lightweight option is simple in design, comes in several different metallic colors, and goes well with any home decor style.

Material

When shopping for a paper towel holder, one of the most important things to consider is the material. “Materials such as metal and wood and those that have a weighted base will help you avoid buyer’s remorse,” says Britnee Tanner, a professional organizer in Utah. The material matters because this is one of the key features that determine the overall durability and sturdiness. “A paper towel holder should be well constructed and have enough heft to it that you can yank a paper towel without knocking the whole thing over,” says Lucy Milligan Wahl, a professional organizer and owner of LMW Edits.

Style and Design

Paper towel holders come in several different designs, including freestanding countertop options, wall-mounted, and under-the-cabinet. When choosing a holder based on style and design, “you want it to blend into your interior style and not stick out because it’s a distraction,” says Tanner. Whether it's brass, chrome, wood, or acrylic, paper towel holders come in a variety of materials that work well with different decor styles, including rustic, mid-century modern, industrial, and farmhouse chic.

Usage

If you don’t already have a place for your paper towel holder, Tanner says to consider how everyone will use it to determine what type of holder you need. “Consider the best placement in your home so that everyone in your household can access it, and that will help you determine which style to buy as well as where to place it.” Considering the space itself and how its usage blends into that is also important, because if you have a small kitchen with very little counter space, you'll want to get it off the counter and onto the wall or under the cabinet to save space.

FAQ

What are the different types of paper towel holders?

Although they all serve the same function, there is lots of variety in the types of paper towel holders. Some of the most common types include the traditional vertical countertop style with a circular or square base that either has a screwball on top to secure the paper towel roll in place or is one solid piece that can just slide off. Other styles have a tension arm that keeps towel ends in place, or a spindle that helps keep things neat and tidy. “For users that don’t want to see their paper towels are ready when they walk into the kitchen, there are also wall-mounted paper towel rods that can be nailed or adhered to flat surfaces using strong adhesives,” says Caroline Dockery, a professional organizer who runs her own business, Categorically Caroline. “These can be hung on the side of cabinetry near the sink, under countertop overhangs, and underneath upper cabinets.”
How much does a paper towel holder typically cost?

The costs of paper towel holders range, however, you likely won’t spend (or don’t need to spend) more than $50 on one. While you can find them for less, our top pick for a high-quality and budget-friendly paper towel holder is the BODING Countertop Paper Towel Holder. For a more high-end paper towel holder, you can expect to pay between $25 and $40 for a paper towel holder.
How much does a paper towel holder weigh?

Generally, paper towel holders are lightweight and weigh less than one pound. Those with weighted bases or more industrial options can weigh more. For a lightweight option, consider the OBODING Countertop Paper Towel Holder, which is 249 grams. For something a bit heavier, the Umbra Teardrop Paper Towel Holder weighs 1.62 pounds. The OXO Good Grips Steady Paper Towel Holder weighs just under 2 pounds.

Contributing writer Jessie Quinn covers everything from organizing solutions to home essentials for The Spruce. When researching the best paper towel holders, Quinn looked at material, durability, style, and paper towel holder type to source the best options.

Jessie reached out to top organizing professionals Caroline Dockery, Britnee Tanner, and Lucy Milligan Wahl for their opinions on what to consider when shopping for paper towel holders, plus insights on the most frequently asked questions when it comes to shopping for paper towel holders.