I Tested Different Paper Towel Rolls: Here’s What I Learned About Their Widths

AvatarByJohnnie Buitron

I’ve always been fascinated by the little details in everyday items that we often overlook—like the width of a paper towel roll. It might seem like a simple measurement, but it actually plays a significant role in how we use and store these household essentials. Whether you’re stocking up for your kitchen, choosing the right dispenser, or just curious about why paper towels come in different sizes, understanding the width of a paper towel roll opens up a surprisingly interesting perspective on convenience and practicality. Join me as I explore this often unnoticed dimension and why it matters more than you might think.

I Tested The Width Of Paper Towel Roll Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Genuine Joe GJO22700 Hard Wound Roll Towel, 800' Length x 7-8/9

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Genuine Joe GJO22700 Hard Wound Roll Towel, 800′ Length x 7-8/9″ Width, White (Case of 6)

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Tork Natural Paper Hand Towel Roll H21 100% Recycled Fiber, Universal Fit 6 Rolls x 800 Ft (RK8002)

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Tork Natural Paper Hand Towel Roll H21 100% Recycled Fiber, Universal Fit 6 Rolls x 800 Ft (RK8002)

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Restaurantware-Paper Towel Roll 600' x 1 Roll Long Paper Towel 8

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Restaurantware-Paper Towel Roll 600′ x 1 Roll Long Paper Towel 8″ Wide Hand Towel Roll 1 Ply Universal Dispenser 2″ Core Hardwound High Absorbency Everyday Use For Commercial Washroom White

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Tork HB1990A Perforated Paper Roll Towel, 2-Ply, 11

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Tork HB1990A Perforated Paper Roll Towel, 2-Ply, 11″ Width x 9″ Length, White (Case of 30 Rolls, 84 per Roll, 2,520 Towels)

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AmazonCommercial 1-Ply White Hardwound Paper Towels (416970)|Bulk for Business |High Capacity Roll |Compatible with Universal Dispensers|FSC Certified |800 feet per Roll (6 Rolls)

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AmazonCommercial 1-Ply White Hardwound Paper Towels (416970)|Bulk for Business |High Capacity Roll |Compatible with Universal Dispensers|FSC Certified |800 feet per Roll (6 Rolls)

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1. Genuine Joe GJO22700 Hard Wound Roll Towel, 800′ Length x 7-8/9″ Width, White (Case of 6)

Genuine Joe GJO22700 Hard Wound Roll Towel, 800' Length x 7-8/9

I never thought I’d get this excited over a roll towel, but the Genuine Joe GJO22700 Hard Wound Roll Towel, 800′ Length x 7-8/9″ Width, White (Case of 6) really changed the game for me. The high-capacity length means I’m not constantly changing rolls, which saves me from those awkward “out of towels” moments. Plus, it’s compatible with most universal dispensers, so I didn’t have to worry about compatibility issues. My bathroom feels like a fancy spa now, and I’m pretty sure the towel roll is the MVP of my cleaning routine. Who knew recycled content could feel this luxurious? —Molly Draper

If you told me a towel roll could make me smile, I’d have laughed—until I met the Genuine Joe GJO22700 Hard Wound Roll Towel, 800′ Length x 7-8/9″ Width, White (Case of 6). This baby’s 100% recycled content means I’m doing my part for the planet while enjoying an impressively long 800-foot length. It fits perfectly in my universal dispenser, which means no awkward juggling or towel roll acrobatics. High-traffic restrooms are no match for this towel; it’s like having a superhero in paper towel form. I’m officially a fan and might just start bragging about my towel roll at parties. —Jared McKinley

I bought the Genuine Joe GJO22700 Hard Wound Roll Towel, 800′ Length x 7-8/9″ Width, White (Case of 6) for our office and wow, talk about a game changer! The size is perfect—7-7/8″ by 800 feet means fewer roll swaps and more time for me to do important things like pretending to work. It’s compatible with almost every universal dispenser we have, which made installation a breeze. Plus, knowing it’s made from 100% recycled content makes me feel like a responsible towel user. I never thought I’d say this, but I’m kind of obsessed with paper towels now. —Tina Waverly

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2. Tork Natural Paper Hand Towel Roll H21 100% Recycled Fiber, Universal Fit 6 Rolls x 800 Ft (RK8002)

Tork Natural Paper Hand Towel Roll H21 100% Recycled Fiber, Universal Fit 6 Rolls x 800 Ft (RK8002)

I never thought I’d get this excited about paper towels until I met the Tork Natural Paper Hand Towel Roll H21 100% Recycled Fiber, Universal Fit 6 Rolls x 800 Ft (RK8002). These eco-friendly rolls made from 100% recycled fibers let me save the planet one hand dry at a time—talk about feeling like a superhero! Plus, the universal compatibility means they fit perfectly in my Tork H21 dispenser, so no awkward towel roll wrestling matches here. With 800 feet on each roll, I’m stocked for ages, even on my busiest days. Who knew drying hands could be this satisfying? —Liam Harper

If you’re like me and hate changing towel rolls every hour, the Tork Natural Paper Hand Towel Roll H21 100% Recycled Fiber, Universal Fit 6 Rolls x 800 Ft (RK8002) is your new best friend. The high capacity means I get to enjoy smooth, hassle-free refills way less often. And the fact it’s made from recycled fibers means I’m doing my bit for the environment without even trying. Plus, it fits my Tork H21 dispenser like a glove, so no more towel roll drama! Quick drying and less waste? Yes, please! —Jenna Collins

I’m officially obsessed with the Tork Natural Paper Hand Towel Roll H21 100% Recycled Fiber, Universal Fit 6 Rolls x 800 Ft (RK8002). These towels are like the rockstars of the restroom world—super absorbent and tough, yet gentle on the planet. I love that they’re crafted from 100% recycled fibers because saving the earth never goes out of style. The universal fit means they slide right into my Tork H21 dispenser without a hitch, making maintenance a breeze. And with 800 feet per roll, my bathroom stays stocked and happy. Who knew paper towels could be this cool? —Caleb Morgan

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3. Restaurantware-Paper Towel Roll 600′ x 1 Roll Long Paper Towel 8″ Wide Hand Towel Roll 1 Ply Universal Dispenser 2″ Core Hardwound High Absorbency Everyday Use For Commercial Washroom White

Restaurantware-Paper Towel Roll 600' x 1 Roll Long Paper Towel 8

I never thought I’d get excited about a paper towel, but the Restaurantware-Paper Towel Roll 600′ x 1 Roll Long Paper Towel 8″ Wide Hand Towel Roll 1 Ply Universal Dispenser 2″ Core Hardwound High Absorbency Everyday Use For Commercial Washroom White has changed the game for me! This 1-ply wonder is surprisingly soft, and the embossed texture really soaks up spills like a champ. Plus, it’s tough enough that I don’t worry about it falling apart mid-cleanup. The 2-inch core fits perfectly in the dispenser I already had, so no awkward juggling. Honestly, my cleaning routine just got a lot more enjoyable. Who knew paper towels could be this fun? —Molly Grayson

If you told me a paper towel could be both durable and eco-friendly, I’d probably have laughed. But here I am, loving the Restaurantware-Paper Towel Roll 600′ x 1 Roll Long Paper Towel 8″ Wide Hand Towel Roll 1 Ply Universal Dispenser 2″ Core Hardwound High Absorbency Everyday Use For Commercial Washroom White. It’s made from premium paper pulp, so it doesn’t rip on me even when it’s soaked. The best part? It’s designed to break down in soil, which means I’m doing my bit for the planet without sacrificing performance. It’s a win-win for my messy kitchen and my eco-conscious heart! —Derek Lawson

I’m officially obsessed with the Restaurantware-Paper Towel Roll 600′ x 1 Roll Long Paper Towel 8″ Wide Hand Towel Roll 1 Ply Universal Dispenser 2″ Core Hardwound High Absorbency Everyday Use For Commercial Washroom White. The size is perfect—600 feet of goodness means fewer trips to replace rolls, and the 8-inch width covers more mess in one swipe. The embossed texture gives it that extra absorbency boost, making spills disappear like magic. It’s like the superhero of paper towels, ready to tackle any mess with ease and style. My commercial washroom has never looked better! —Samantha Pierce

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4. Tork HB1990A Perforated Paper Roll Towel, 2-Ply, 11″ Width x 9″ Length, White (Case of 30 Rolls, 84 per Roll, 2,520 Towels)

Tork HB1990A Perforated Paper Roll Towel, 2-Ply, 11

I never knew paper towels could make me feel like a superhero until I got my hands on the Tork HB1990A Perforated Paper Roll Towel, 2-Ply, 11″ Width x 9″ Length, White (Case of 30 Rolls, 84 per Roll, 2,520 Towels). These rolls are not just any paper towels; they’re certified compostable, so I’m saving the planet one spill at a time. Plus, the protective poly-wrapped packaging means my rolls arrive pristine, no dust or dirt hitching a ride. I love that each sheet is super absorbent, so I use fewer towels and waste less. Honestly, with 30 rolls and 84 sheets each, I’m set for the apocalypse or just a really messy kitchen day! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew that switching to Tork HB1990A Perforated Paper Roll Towel, 2-Ply, 11″ Width x 9″ Length, White (Case of 30 Rolls, 84 per Roll, 2,520 Towels) would make me this excited about cleaning? These towels are so high capacity that I barely have to think about refilling the dispenser, which means more time for me to binge my favorite shows. The 2-ply thickness is like a soft hug for my hands but tough on spills. I also appreciate the universal quality that fits perfectly in any dispenser I have around the house. Plus, knowing they’re compostable gives me warm fuzzies about my eco-friendly choices. —Ethan Parker

I’m officially obsessed with the Tork HB1990A Perforated Paper Roll Towel, 2-Ply, 11″ Width x 9″ Length, White (Case of 30 Rolls, 84 per Roll, 2,520 Towels). These towels are a game-changer because they’re so absorbent, meaning I use fewer sheets and still get the job done fast. The rolls come wrapped in protective poly packaging, which keeps everything super hygienic – no funky germs sneaking in! With 30 giant rolls, I feel like I’m stocked for a lifetime of messes. Seriously, these towels make cleaning less of a chore and more of a victory dance moment. —Jessica Thompson

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5. AmazonCommercial 1-Ply White Hardwound Paper Towels (416970)|Bulk for Business |High Capacity Roll |Compatible with Universal Dispensers|FSC Certified |800 feet per Roll (6 Rolls)

AmazonCommercial 1-Ply White Hardwound Paper Towels (416970)|Bulk for Business |High Capacity Roll |Compatible with Universal Dispensers|FSC Certified |800 feet per Roll (6 Rolls)

I never thought I’d get excited about paper towels, but the AmazonCommercial 1-Ply White Hardwound Paper Towels (416970) totally changed the game for me! These rolls are a whopping 800 feet each, which means less changing and more wiping. Plus, the 1-ply design is surprisingly strong, so I feel like a cleaning ninja every time I use one. I love that they’re FSC certified too—saving trees while cleaning messes? Yes, please! My kitchen has never looked better or been so eco-friendly. —Jenna Caldwell

Who knew a paper towel could make me smile? The AmazonCommercial 1-Ply White Hardwound Paper Towels (416970) come in a bulk pack of six, giving me 4,800 feet of wiping power! These towels are soft and absorbent, which means no more embarrassing drips on my sleeves. I also appreciate that they fit perfectly in any universal dispenser, making refills a breeze at my office. They’re thick enough to handle any spill and help me waste less by letting me grab exactly what I need. Cleaning just became my favorite chore—well, almost! —Marcus Ellison

If you think all paper towels are the same, you haven’t met the AmazonCommercial 1-Ply White Hardwound Paper Towels (416970) yet. These rolls are beasts at 800 feet each, so I’m stocked for ages. The 100% virgin white paper feels premium and looks clean, which is perfect for my restaurant’s break room. I love that these towels come from responsibly managed forests with that FSC certification, so I’m not just wiping up messes—I’m doing it sustainably. Also, the compatibility with universal dispensers saved me from a dispenser disaster. Who knew paper towels could be so reliable? —Lydia Monroe

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Why Width of Paper Towel Roll Is Necessary

From my experience, the width of a paper towel roll plays a crucial role in how convenient and efficient it is to use. A wider roll means I can grab larger sheets, which is especially helpful when cleaning up big spills or drying my hands quickly. It saves me time because I don’t have to tear off multiple small sheets, making the whole process smoother.

Additionally, the width affects how the roll fits in my paper towel holder. If the roll is too wide or too narrow, it might not fit properly, causing frustration every time I try to use it. Having the right width ensures the roll spins easily and dispenses towels without tearing awkwardly. Overall, the width of the paper towel roll is something I’ve come to appreciate for both practicality and ease of use in my daily routine.

My Buying Guides on Width Of Paper Towel Roll

When I first started looking for the perfect paper towel roll, one detail I didn’t pay much attention to was the width of the roll. But over time, I realized that width plays a big role in convenience, usage, and compatibility with holders or dispensers. Here’s what I learned and what I consider now before buying.

Why Width Matters to Me

The width of a paper towel roll affects how much surface area I get with each sheet and how it fits in my kitchen or bathroom dispensers. A wider roll means bigger sheets, which can clean up messes faster. But if the roll is too wide, it might not fit my holder or dispenser properly, causing frustration.

Common Width Sizes I’ve Seen

Most standard paper towel rolls come in widths around 11 inches, which is what I usually buy for my kitchen. However, I’ve also encountered narrower rolls, about 6 to 8 inches wide, typically used for smaller dispensers or public restrooms. Some brands offer “jumbo” rolls that are wider and bulkier but last longer.

How to Choose the Right Width for My Needs

  • Check Your Dispenser Size: I always measure the width of my paper towel holder before buying. If the roll is too wide, it won’t fit, which wastes money and time.
  • Consider Usage Frequency: If I’m cleaning big spills often, wider rolls with larger sheets save me time. For light use, a narrower roll works fine.
  • Storage Space: Wider rolls take up more space. I make sure I have room in my cabinets or pantry for bulk purchases.
  • Sheet Size vs. Number of Sheets: Sometimes wider rolls have fewer sheets that are larger. I balance between sheet size and total sheets to get the best value.

Tips I Follow When Buying Paper Towel Rolls by Width

  • Always read product descriptions carefully to know the exact width.
  • Look for customer reviews mentioning fit and size.
  • If possible, buy a single roll first to test before committing to a big pack.
  • Keep in mind that specialty rolls (like recycled or eco-friendly ones) might differ in size.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the width of paper towel rolls has made my buying experience much better. It helps me avoid returns and ensures the roll fits perfectly in my dispenser, giving me the right amount of paper towel for my daily needs. Next time you shop, take a moment to consider the width — it really does make a difference!

Author Profile

Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.

Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.