How to Pick the Ideal Paper Towel Holder for Your Bathroom
Choosing the perfect paper towel holder for your bathroom can be hard. But having the right holder makes accessing towels quick and easy while complementing your decor. Follow this guide to find your bathroom's ideal paper towel holder match.
First, assess your existing bathroom style and decor. Is your bathroom modern and sleek or does it have a more traditional look? Pay attention to colors, textures, and materials already present. Then, consider how a paper towel holder can complement the space.

Determine Your Bathroom Style
Take some time to evaluate your bathroom's current aesthetic and decor. Note details like:
- Color scheme - Are cool tones like grays and blues or warm earth tones more prominent?
- Style - Do you tend toward modern and contemporary or traditional decor?
- Materials - What materials like tile, countertops, fixtures are already present?
- Textures - Smooth and sleek or rough and natural textures?
- Theme - Any specific themes or unifying elements like coastal or spa-like?
Once you have a handle on your existing bathroom style, envision how a paper towel holder could complement the space. For example, an ornate metal holder would suit a traditional bathroom, while a sleek acrylic version could accent a contemporary look.
Pick Material That Fits Your Bathroom
Paper towel holders come in a variety of materials, so select one that aligns with your bathroom's current look and feel. Consider the pros and cons of each material type:
Material | Benefits | Drawbacks |
Metal | - Durable - Sleek, modern aesthetic - Easy to clean | - Can show fingerprints - Noisy when reloading paper towels |
Wood | - Natural material - Warm, inviting aesthetic | - Requires sealing to prevent water damage - Prone to scratches |
Ceramic | - Stylish - Easy to clean - Matches with other bathroom materials | - Heavier than other options - Can chip or crack if dropped |
Plastic | - Inexpensive - Easy maintenance - Range of color options | - Not as aesthetically pleasing - Can seem flimsy over time |
Take stock of existing fixtures and surfaces to select a material that complements your bathroom. The holder's texture and finish are also important - a glossy acrylic holder can accent sleek modern decor, while a rustic wood finish fits with natural elements.
Choose Mounting Type That Works
Paper towel holders come designed for various mounting types to suit your space and needs:
- Freestanding: Rests on counter or sits on floor; great for renters and flexible placement
- Wall-mounted: Screws securely to wall surface; keeps counter space clear
- Over sink: Attaches near or over sink basin; provides easy access when washing hands
- Under sink: Mounts discretely under sink or cabinet; ideal for small spaces
Consider your bathroom layout, available space, and existing holes from previous hardware when choosing mounting style. Measure to ensure adequate room for towel clearance and usage. Wall mounting often works well for maximizing room.
Consider Special Features
Today's paper towel holders offer convenient features to suit different needs:
- Automatic touchless dispensers: Motion-activated for hands-free, hygienic use
- Storage shelves: Provide additional space for essentials like soap or lotion
- Smart technology: Options like motion sensors to dispense towels when needed
Those with mobility challenges may benefit from an automatic dispenser, while a storage shelf could help declutter a small vanity. Smart technology allows customization like setting towel dispense amounts.
Select Size and Shape
Paper towel holders come in a range of sizes and silhouettes to fit your bathroom's towels and space:
- Diameter size: Standard is around 5-7 inches but larger options accommodate bigger rolls
- Shape: Round, curved, square, or angular options
- Depth: Slimmer is better in tight spaces
- Custom sizing: Some companies offer custom measurements
Measure your current paper towels first when sizer is important for clearance. You can also consider the holder's shape and depth to suit your bathroom layout. Narrow, out-of-the-way spaces do well with compact shapes.
Factor in Your Budget
Prices for paper towel holders can range quite a bit based on:
- Material: Metal, wood, or ceramic cost more than plastic
- Special features: Touchless dispensers or smart tech costs extra
- Brand name: Premium designer brands have higher price tags
Set a realistic budget before shopping and look for good quality materials and construction at the best price point you can afford. Sales or buying previous year's models can also help you maximize value.
Shop with Reputable Brands
Some top makers of quality paper towel holders include:
- Simplehuman - sleek metal holders and dispensers
- Kohler - sturdy designs to match their fixtures
- Moen - range of configurations and finishes
- Signature Hardware - traditional to contemporary styles
- InterDesign - affordable options in plastic and metal
Established brands use good materials that hold up over time. Check product specifications and read reviews before purchasing. Consider after-sales support and warranties too.
Achieve Bathroom Harmony
With your new paper towel holder picked out, a few finishing touches can help it stylistically blend into your bathroom:
- Use decoratively folded towels or add embellishments like ribbon
- Incorporate complementary colors and textures in nearby towels, rugs, shower curtain
- Add coordinated wall art or decorative shelving above
- Use lighting like sconces to accent and spotlight the area
Aesthetically pleasing paper towel presentation helps tie your new holder into the overall room decor. With the right holder choice, you can upgrade both form and function in your bathroom.
Choosing an ideal paper towel holder requires factoring in your bathroom's existing style, space, and needs. Key aspects include material, mounting type, special features, and finding the right shape and size. Shopping with reputable brands known for quality can give you durable options that match your budget. With some decor coordination, you can then seamlessly integrate your new paper towel holder into a stylish, functional bathroom space.