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10 Best Cheap Paper Towels of 2025 for Quality and Affordability
Finding the best cheap paper towels can often be a daunting task, especially with a myriad of options available online. In 2025, affordability doesn’t always compromise quality, as many brands offer budget-friendly options that perform efficiently for common household tasks. This article compiles a list of the top 10 cheap paper towels available on Amazon, providing in-depth reviews, pros and cons, and essential features for each.
1. Bounty Quick-Size Paper Towels
Product Overview
Bounty Quick-Size Paper Towels are renowned for their durability and absorbency. With the “Quick-Size” feature, you can select between select-a-size sheets, making them ideal for any task. Whether you’re cleaning up spills or drying hands, these towels are designed to tackle various messes effortlessly.
- FAMILY ROLLS: Each pack contains 16 Family Rolls of Bounty white Quick-Size paper towels, equivalent to 40 regular rolls, ensuring you’re well-stocked for all your cleaning needs.
- SUPERIOR SHEET COUNT: With 8 packs of 2 Family Rolls, these paper towels offer more sheets for more tasks, providing excellent value compared to Bounty Double Plus.
- QUICK SIZE CONVENIENCE: Designed with quick size sheets, these paper towels tear easily for handling messes big and small, outperforming the leading ordinary brand in versatility and efficiency.
- HIGHLY ABSORBENT: These paper towels are 2X more absorbent than the US leading ordinary brand, allowing you to use less and achieve more, making them a cost-effective and eco-friendly choice.
- AWARD-WINNING PERFORMANCE: Bounty is the most awarded paper towel brand, recognized by online media for outstanding performance over the past 8 years.
Best for
Best for versatile use in kitchens, bathrooms, and for general cleanup.
Product Review
The Bounty Quick-Size paper towels feature a strong, white paper that ensures no tearing, even when wet. Their unique design allows users to customize their sheet size, providing options for smaller or larger messes as necessary. Each roll contains more sheets than many competing brands, enhancing their value proposition.
Pros
- Extremely absorbent
- Select-a-size feature
- Strong and tear-resistant
- Larger rolls compared to competitors
Cons
- Slightly higher price point than off-brand alternatives
- Scented options may not appeal to everyone
2. Scott Essential Paper Towels
Product Overview
Scott Essential Paper Towels are a great choice for anyone looking to save without compromising value. These towels are made from 100% recycled material, focusing on sustainability while still providing strong and reliable cleaning capabilities.
−$8.42
- 950'/Roll; 6 Rolls of Scott Essential High-Capacity Hard Roll Paper Towels/Case; 5,700'/Case; with Elevated Design and Absorbency Pockets; for Purple Core Dispensers; White; Unperforated
- The new Elevated Scott Design is preferred 4 to 1 and provides an Unmistakably Scott restroom experience
- Scott Essential 1.75" core size paper towels include unique Absorbency Pockets, which soak up water fast and may result in less waste (guests will need fewer towels)
- Meets EPA minimum requirements for post-consumer waste
- ECOLOGO and FSC certified; FSC mix paper supporting responsible forestry
Best for
Best for environmentally-conscious consumers looking for cost-effective options.
Product Review
Scott Essential paper towels are designed for everyday messes. Their durable construction ensures they can handle spills effectively, while the use of recycled materials enhances their eco-friendliness. Each perforated roll contains multiple sheets, making them a practical choice for regular use.
Pros
- Made from recycled materials
- Competitive pricing
- Good absorbency
- Ideal for heavy-duty cleaning
Cons
- May be less absorbent compared to premium brands
- Some users report a rougher texture
3. Bounty Select-A-Size Paper Towels
Product Overview
Bounty Select-A-Size Paper Towels offer unique customization that allows consumers to choose a size that fits their specific needs. This feature can help in reducing waste while maintaining efficiency in cleaning tasks.
−$3.21
- Pack contains 8 Triple Rolls of white Bounty Select-A-Size Paper Towels
- 8 Triple Rolls = 24 Regular Rolls
- Select-A-Size sheets help you customize how much to use for each task
- Picks up spills and messes quicker vs. leading ordinary brand
- More absorbent so you can use less vs. leading ordinary brand
Best for
Best for users wanting to control usage and minimize waste.
Product Review
The Bounty Select-A-Size paper towels capitalize on providing size versatility without sacrificing strength. They effectively absorb spills and are perfect for both everyday and hefty cleanups. Additionally, their strong tear-resistant design stands out among competitors.
Pros
- Choose your sheet size
- Highly absorbent
- Durable, tear-resistant material
- Effective for a diverse set of tasks
Cons
- Slightly pricier compared to generic brands
- Not as eco-friendly as some recycled options
4. Presto! Flex-a-Size Paper Towels
Product Overview
Presto! Flex-a-Size Paper Towels provide a budget-friendly alternative to other household names while still offering significant absorbency and strength. Their flex-a-size feature gives users the flexibility to choose smaller sheets.
−$5.68
- SHIPMENT CONTAINS: 12 Huge Rolls (2 packs of 6 rolls each) with 158 2-ply sheets per paper towel roll
- MORE SHEETS PER ROLL: Equal to 38 Regular Rolls (based on a standard roll with 49 sheets)
- STRONG & ABSORBENT: Up to 75% more absorbent versus leading 1-ply brand
- GREENCIRCLE CERTIFIED: Certified Energy Savings verifies product energy savings of over 10% in the use-phase compared to similar products
- FLEX-A-SIZE: Multiple tearable sheet sizes for customized clean up and less waste
Best for
Best for those seeking a cost-effective, versatile option.
Product Review
Presto! Flex-a-Size paper towels deliver solid performance across various cleaning tasks. Users appreciate the ability to choose between full or half-sized sheets, making them a versatile cleaning choice. They effectively soak up spills and resist tearing even under pressure.
Pros
- Budget-friendly pricing
- Flex-a-size feature
- Effective absorbency
- Generally available in bulk
Cons
- Availability may vary
- A bit less soft than some premium brands
5. Sparkle Pick-A-Size Paper Towels
Product Overview
Sparkle Pick-A-Size Paper Towels blend quality and value, ensuring you don’t have to break the bank for reliable kitchen supplies. The pick-a-size option provides flexibility for a range of tasks.
- Sparkle Pick-A-Size Paper Towels are strong for everyday messes at a value that's just right for your budget
- Each Pick-A-Size Double Roll has 110 2-ply sheets and is equal to 2 Regular Paper Towel Rolls, so you can change the roll less often
- Refresh your space without busting your budget. Try Sparkle - the affordable, effective and bright choice in paper towels
- Great as everyday kitchen towels and household clean-up with even more uses for food prep, DIY projects, outdoors & more
- Sparkle paper towels are made from sustainably sourced trees; our sourcing practices are certified by the Sustainable Forestry Initiative Fiber Sourcing Standard (SFI-000007)
Best for
Best for families needing versatile and budget-friendly options.
Product Review
Sparkle’s Pick-A-Size paper towels are popular for their durable texture and effective absorbency capabilities. They can manage both small spills and larger messes efficiently. The perforated sheets allow users to take just what they need, reducing unnecessary waste.
Pros
- Good quality for the price
- Versatile size options
- Reliable absorbency
- Effective for various uses
Cons
- Slightly less durable than top-tier options
- Can be rough for sensitive skins
6. Viva Multi-Surface Paper Towels
Product Overview
Viva Multi-Surface Paper Towels offer an excellent blend of softness and strength. Their unique cloth-like texture affords comfort and efficacy across multiple cleaning surfaces.
−$3.47
- 12 Viva Multi-Surface Cloth Paper Towel Triple Rolls, 165 sheets per roll (2 packs of 6); Viva Choose-A-Sheet size allows you to choose the right sheet size for any task; packaging may vary
- Viva Multi-Surface Cloth offers 4x cleaning power to remove dirt, scrub grime, absorb quickly, and lock in liquid for an exceptional, everyday clean
- Our absorbent paper towels trap mess 3x better* to help leave any surface spotless (*when wet vs. our dry towel)
- Each sheet is uniquely textured with micro-scrubbing technology for an absorbent clean
Best for
Best for those prioritizing soft-touch cleaning while maintaining robustness.
Product Review
Viva’s paper towels stand out due to their cloth-like feel, making them perfect for those who dislike the roughness of standard paper products. They are absorbent and hold up well in both cleaning and scrubbing scenarios, making them a versatile addition to any home.
Pros
- Extremely soft to the touch
- Excellent absorbency
- Effective scrubbing power
- Durable against tearing
Cons
- Higher price point than other budget options
- Not as eco-friendly as some alternatives
7. Great Value Paper Towels
Product Overview
Great Value Paper Towels prove that you can find quality products at a low cost. These towels are efficient for daily use in various household chores while sticking to a budget.
Best for
Best for shoppers seeking value for everyday cleaning needs.
Product Review
The Great Value brand offers reliable paper towels that meet typical household cleaning demands. They absorb spills adequately and deliver a decent thickness that holds up well during tasks. These towels provide excellent value, especially for bulk purchases.
Pros
- Extremely budget-friendly
- Decent quality for general use
- Good absorbency
- Available in bulk sizes
Cons
- May not be as absorbent as premium options
- Tendency to tear more easily than stronger brands
8. Member’s Mark Premium Paper Towels
Product Overview
Member’s Mark Premium Paper Towels represent a fine balance of quality and price. Known for their absorbency and durability, they are an excellent investment for families and extensive use.
- QUANTITY: 15 Rolls
- SHEETS PER ROLL: 150
- SIZE: 11 x 6
- ROLL SIZE: Mega Roll (15 Mega Rolls = 30 Regular Rolls)
- COLOR: White
Best for
Best for large families needing frequent paper towel replacements.
Product Review
These paper towels are designed with a unique texture that enhances absorbency while maintaining a sturdy structure when wet. Users can count on Member’s Mark for heavy-duty cleaning, making them popular for both kitchen and bathroom use.
Pros
- Superior absorbency
- Strong and durable material
- Ideal for heavy messes
- Bulk packaging options
Cons
- Higher than some ultra-budget alternatives
- Limited availability outside select retailers
9. Marcal Small Steps Paper Towels
Product Overview
Marcal Small Steps Paper Towels are an eco-friendly choice crafted from recycled paper. They offer both sustainability and practicality, ensuring your cleaning routine is both effective and environmentally conscious.
−$12.22
- 100% recycled 2-ply paper towel rolls, 60 sheets per roll
- Whitened without chlorine bleaching
- Virtually lint-free, no dye or fragrance added
- Perfect for home and small or medium-sized offices
Best for
Best for environmentally conscious consumers.
Product Review
Constructed from 100% recycled fibers, Marcal Small Steps towels retain strength despite their earth-friendly materials. They offer good absorbency and are decent for light to medium cleanups. Their eco-friendly appeal does not compromise their utility in daily chores.
Pros
- Made from recycled materials
- Good absorbency
- Soft and comfortable to use
- Great for eco-focused individuals
Cons
- Not the best for heavy-duty messes
- Slightly lower absorbency compared to some brands
10. AmazonBasics Paper Towels
Product Overview
AmazonBasics Paper Towels provide an affordable solution for those who require reliable, everyday cleaning supplies. Their no-frills approach reduces costs while retaining necessary features.
- SHIPMENT CONTAINS: 12 rolls with 150 2-ply sheets per roll, 1,800 total sheets
- GREAT VALUE: Amazon Basics Paper Towels are perfect for everyday messes at a great value for your budget
- LESS LINT: Amazon Basics Towels lint less making them great for cleaning hard surfaces like mirrors, glass, and countertops
- FSC-CERTIFIED PAPER TOWEL (FSC N004130): Made with materials from well-managed forests, recycled materials, and/or other controlled wood sources
- EVERYDAY SOLUTION: Amazon Basics Towels are just the solution for an affordable and effective clean
Best for
Best for budget-conscious consumers who shop for basic cleaning supplies.
Product Review
These paper towels offer decent absorbency and strength, providing a satisfactory experience for regular cleaning tasks. Their availability in bulk bundles makes them an ideal option for larger households or businesses looking to cut costs.
Pros
- Highly affordable
- Suitable for light and medium cleanups
- Available in bulk packages
- Easily accessible through Amazon
Cons
- May not hold up under heavy usage
- Less absorbent than premium options
Buying Guide for Cheap Paper Towels
When it comes to household supplies, paper towels are essential for keeping your home clean and tidy. However, shopping for cheap paper towels doesn’t have to mean compromising on quality. Here’s a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the best economical options.
1. Types of Paper Towels
Full-Size vs. Half-Sheets
- Full-Size: More absorbent and suitable for larger spills.
- Half-Sheets: Great for smaller messes and more economical since you can use less.
Select-A-Size
Some brands offer select-a-size options that allow you to tear off different sizes based on your needs. This feature can help reduce waste and save money.
2. Absorbency and Strength
Look for products that advertise high absorbency and strength. A strong paper towel will help you clean spills more efficiently, which can save you money in the long run as you need fewer sheets.
User Ratings
Check online reviews or consumer reports to see how well various brands perform in terms of absorbency and strength.
3. Ply Count
- 1-Ply: Generally cheaper but can be less absorbent.
- 2-Ply: More absorbent and stronger, usually a better option for cleaning up bigger messes.
While 2-Ply may initially seem more expensive, they might save money when used effectively.
4. Materials
Most paper towels are made from recycled paper or virgin pulp.
- Recycled Paper Towels: Eco-friendly and often cheaper, although they might lack the strength of virgin pulp options.
- Virgin Pulp: Typically stronger and more absorbent but usually costs more.
5. Brand vs. Store Brand
Brand-name paper towels can be pricier, but they often offer better performance. However, many store brands provide comparable quality at a lower price, making them a great alternative.
Trial and Error
Consider trying both brand and store brands to find the best combination of price and performance for your needs.
6. Packaging and Size
- Roll Count: More rolls per pack usually yield better value.
- Sheet Count: Check how many sheets come on each roll and compare with unit price.
7. Environmental Impact
If you’re eco-conscious, look for paper towels made from recycled materials or those labeled as environmentally friendly. These options may sometimes come at a higher price, but they can save you money if you buy in bulk.
8. Price Comparison
Before making a purchase, compare prices from different retailers (both online and in-store). Look for sales, coupons, or discounts that can help you save.
Unit Price Calculation
To get a better deal, calculate the unit price (cost per sheet or roll) to effectively compare products of different sizes and packaging.
9. Bulk Purchasing
Buying in bulk can save you money in the long run. If you have the storage space, consider purchasing larger quantities from wholesale retailers.
10. Recommendations
Here’s a list of popular budget-friendly paper towel brands known for their quality:
- Bounty Essentials
- Scott Paper Towels
- Kirkland Signature (Costco)
- Marcal Small Steps
Conclusion
Finding cheap paper towels that meet your needs doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By considering factors like ply count, absorbency, and packaging, and by comparing prices, you can make an informed decision. Remember to balance cost with performance to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money! Happy shopping!
