The Best Paper Towel Holders You'll Actually Want in Your Kitchen (2024)

Our Top Picks

Gone are the days of ripping off more paper towels than you need. This top-rated paper towel holder from OXO’s Good Grips collection allows you to take the exact amount you need single-handedly. Another pro of only using one hand is that it reduces the risk of touching surfaces with dirty hands. Made of durable steel with black plastic accents, it looks clean and sleek in any kitchen.

The spring-activated arm accommodates any size roll with internal resistance to prevent runaway rolls from spinning out of control and is strengthened further with a weighted, nonslip base and a wide rim. The arm pivots away from the center and unlocks so you can pop the paper towel roll on the center pole.

Material: Stainless steel | Dimensions: 7 x 7 x 13 inches | Weight: 1.2 pounds

Adding function to your kitchen doesn’t have to break the bank. This modern option offers color options to match any space, including black, gold, and silver, and prices range between $8 and $10. Built from sturdy steel, this requires assembly with the provided screws and hex key to connect the base and center pole. The semicircle on the top of the center pole allows you to pick up the holder and move it around the kitchen or house so your paper towels can go wherever you do.

Material: Steel | Dimensions: 12.5 x 6.3 x 6.3 inches | Weight: 0.5 pounds

It doesn’t get much easier than this magnetic paper towel holder that requires zero assembly and takes up minimal space. Instead of using precious counter space, this option can be mounted horizontally or vertically on most metal surfaces except for stainless steel, such as the side of your refrigerator, microwave, or garage storage cabinet. It's not just limited to paper towels: You can use this holder for washcloths, dish towels, and more. Constructed of sturdy steel, it supports up to 6 pounds, meaning it will have no problem holding any type of towel.

Material: Carbon steel | Dimensions: 12 x 2 x 3 inches | Weight: 0.7 pounds

Take advantage of free cabinet space with this easy-to-mount paper towel holder. The timeless design will look seamless under your cabinet or another surface, whether installed with adhesive or drilled holes. It’s available in black, gold, rose gold, gray, or silver to fit any kitchen’s style and is even available in a pack of two if you plan to install a second in a bathroom.

The provided sticky adhesive can mount sturdily to most flat surfaces, but the product also includes screws to drill into the wall for a more permanent installation. Plus, you won’t have to worry about damage to the stainless steel body over time, as it’s waterproof and rustproof.

Material: Stainless steel | Dimensions: 13.2 x 3.5 inches | Weight: 7.4 ounces

Whether you’re putting on a fresh jumbo roll or only have a few sheets left, the tension arm on this stainless steel paper towel holder allows you to take just what you need. The finger loop at the top of the center pole makes it easy to pick up and move around as needed. Weighing 2.2 pounds, thanks to the weighted base, things are kept steady and secure.

Stainless steel is a durable choice because it’s waterproof and rust- and corrosion-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about splashes of water causing damage over time. If you notice any spots or stains, just wipe it clean with warm water and a cloth.

Material: Stainless steel | Dimensions: 7.5 x 8.25 x 14.25 inches | Weight: 2.2 pounds

Bring a touch of elegance to your everyday life with this white marble paper towel holder from Crate & Barrel. The freestanding holder is simple in design, with a broad base and a single upright spindle. It’s heavy enough to stay upright even when given a little nudge, and it’s suitable for large rolls.

Since marble is a naturally occurring material, there may be some differences in the gray veining and coloring. Several reviewers say it complements quartz countertops, but it can work well on a variety of surfaces. In case of splatters and spills, the marble can be hand-washed and wiped down to remove stains.

Material: Marble | Dimensions: 12.8 x 6.5 inches | Weight: Not listed

If you’re looking for something simple and inexpensive, this bamboo paper towel holder has an easy-to-use design with a dowel on the side and a decorative bulb on top of the center pole. Though wood is not as durable as stainless steel, it’s still suitable for a paper towel holder. To extend the life of your holder and keep it clean with age, handwash with warm water and mild soap to remove stains and apply bamboo or mineral oil when necessary. It’s important to note that there’s a product sticker on the bottom of the base that reviewers say is tricky to remove.

Material: Bamboo | Dimensions: 13.1 x 6.6 x 6.6 inches | Weight: 0.6 pounds

This mDesign paper towel holder features a shelf above the roll, enabling you to maximize your kitchen space. Easily mount it to the wall, inside a cabinet, or in your pantry, and use the shelf to store your most used spices and cooking essentials. Made of alloy steel and available in five different finishes — black, white, graphite, chrome, and bronze — there’s a style for any setting.

If mounting inside an under-the-sink cabinet, you can stash cleaning supplies on your shelf. Instead of paper towels in the bathroom, use it to hold two extra rolls of toilet paper, or make this work in the laundry room with laundry supplies on top — the possibilities are endless.

Material: Alloy steel | Dimensions: 12 x 5.25 x 3.4 inches | Weight: 1.28 pounds

If you often find your hands covered in a mess and want to avoid touching the entire clean stack of paper towels, an automatic paper towel dispenser might be the answer. Folks with limited mobility can also benefit from touchless kitchen tools like these, which make it easier to access everyday items without full dexterity or aggravating chronic pain. Is it necessary for most households? Possibly not. But for those interested, it'll certainly make life a little easier.

Material: Plastic and stainless steel | Dimensions: 14.1 x 10 x 7.5 inches | Weight: 4.69 pounds

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the purpose of a paper towel holder?

  A paper towel holder prevents the bottom of your paper towels from getting wet or dirty in case of spills or messes in the kitchen by lifting it up with a base. It can also make it easier to get a solid tear along the perforated lines of your paper towels without ripping, especially if it has an arm or grip.

• Where should you mount a paper towel holder?

  Your paper towel holder should be placed conveniently in the kitchen, near the sink, either mounted or freestanding. But don’t limit your paper towel holders to the kitchen: A paper towel holder can also be a helpful asset in your laundry room, bathroom, garage, and near the grill.

• What else can I use a paper towel holder for?

  You can use paper towel holders to store extra toilet paper rolls under the sink in your bathroom, especially if you live in a smaller space. If you install your paper towel holder horizontally, you can use it for extra dish rags and washcloths.