The 6 Best Reusable Paper Towels, Tested and Reviewed

How We Tested

We sent all of the reusable paper towels on this roundup to our experienced product tester, who used them side-by-side to pick up spills, wipe down glassware and dishware, clean mirrors and countertops, and dry their hands. They were also washed by hand and/or by washing machine and air-dried and/or sent through the dryer. Each reusable paper towel was rated on material, absorbency, versatility, ease of cleaning, and overall value. Our tester then offered additional insights on each reusable paper towel's strengths and weaknesses.

What to Look for in Reusable Paper Towels

Sustainability

Information to look out for on product packaging and manufacturer websites include: if the reusable paper towels are compostable, biodegradable, and nontoxic and whether they feature green product certification labels, like Green Seal, Rainforest Alliance Certified, and Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). These certifications will let you know for sure that the product was made with Mother Earth in mind.

Absorbency  

How absorbent a particular non-paper towel will be is mainly attributable to the materials it is made out of. Microfiber tends to soak up water better than cotton, and hemp usually retains moisture better than bamboo. It is also not uncommon for bamboo fibers to be used in combination with cotton in order to strike a balance between the strengths of both textiles.

FAQs

How do you clean reusable paper towels?

It is important to read the specified care instructions. At the very least, most reusable paper cloths can be rinsed by hand using water and a mild dish detergent before squeezing out excess water. Then allow to dry flat either on a dish rack or sink edge.

To further disinfect between washes, check the original packaging to see if the type you own can be microwaved for a minute. And if the towels are flagged as dishwasher safe (which most are), it's best to place them in the machine’s top rack to avoid oversaturation. Machine washable towels reportedly do best in cold or warm rinse cycles with gentle laundry soap, although some can be bleached. Most users also seem to have a strong preference for air drying rather than placing them in a standard dryer, as this may cause shrinkage over time. As previously mentioned, it's best to check the manufacturer's instructions for specific guidance.

How do you store reusable paper towels?

Several types (like Marley's Monsters Unpaper Towels) come with their own rolls they are designed to cling to. Reusable paper towel holders can also be purchased separately, such as these cloth hand towel dispensers (view at Amazon), which can be conveniently refilled again and again. A low-cost way to keep them easily within arm’s reach is by repurposing an empty tissue box as a holder.

How long do reusable paper towels last?

Longevity varies by brand. On average, with proper care, the minimum time frame clocks in around two months, with more durable designs touted as functional for a year or longer.

Can't you just compost regular paper towels?

You can compost regular paper towels as long as they haven't been contaminated by pet waste, anything greasy, or chemical-based cleaning products. If they're relatively unsoiled and have only been used to clean dirt, water, or plant-based foods, they should break down with no problem. For the best results, rip them into small pieces before you add them to your compost pile.

Just like paper, common reusable non-paper towel materials, such as bamboo and cotton, are also extracted from the environment. On the contrary, fewer raw materials typically go into these products, and since you don't have to throw them away after each use, it alleviates the burden we place on trees and, for those who don't compost, nixes added waste in landfills.

Aren't reusable paper towels inconvenient?

It certainly takes time adjusting to something you're not accustomed to, but it will become easier with time—and Mother Nature will thank you. To make the transition as seamless as possible, get in the habit of washing and drying your towel in the sink or dishwasher shortly after you use it, so you don't need to go reaching into the hamper for a dirty one. Having multiple non-paper towels on hand at all times will guarantee you aren't left without when there's a mess to clean.

Why Trust The Spruce Eats?

Rachel Werner is a consumer expert who models for sustainable fashion brand Fair Indigo and has been interviewed by PopSugar for ethical shopping advice. A passion for educating others on holistic wellness and eco-friendly living inspired her to start freelance writing as a side hustle in 2013. She continues to write for several print and digital publications while also teaching for The Loft Literary Center, Lighthouse Writers Workshop, and Hugo House. Rachel personally tested all reusable paper towels on this roundup.