Best Paper Towels

We evaluated six popular products, including Bounty and Brawny. These were the best at cleaning up wet messes.

Consumer Reports Home & Trends Writer, Jodhaira Rodriguez.

By Jodhaira Rodriguez
Home & Trends Writer

Updated by Kala Herh

Updated June 13, 2025

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3 paper towels against a blue background — We set out to find out which paper towels are worth your money by conducting several tests—such as those for strength and absorbency—in our lab.

Just like sponges and multipurpose cleaners, paper towels are an essential household item.

In this article

Best Paper Towels
How We Evaluated Paper Towels
The Disadvantages of Paper Towels

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We investigate, research, and test so you can choose with confidence.

Jodhaira Rodriguez

Jodhaira Rodriguez is a senior multimedia content creator at Consumer Reports. Before joining CR, she tested and wrote about cleaning and organizing products and major appliances like washing machines and dishwashers at Good Housekeeping. In her free time, you’ll find her reading, listening to true crime podcasts, or working on her latest hobby of the month.