How To Install An Under-Cabinet Paper Towel Holder

If you're looking for a space-saving solution to keep your kitchen organized, installing a paper towel holder under your cabinet is a great choice. It keeps paper towels accessible yet out of sight and frees up valuable counter space.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to install a paper towel holder under a cabinet. We will provide you with the tools, tips, and instructions to complete this simple home improvement project.

Why Choose an Under-Cabinet Paper Towel Holder?

Installing a paper towel holder under your cabinet is a smart and efficient way to store your paper towels. This setup is perfect for kitchens with limited counter space or those looking to streamline their organization. Mounting the holder under the cabinet not only saves room but also makes it easy to grab a paper towel whenever you need one, without the clutter of a countertop holder.

Additionally, this installation adds a clean and modern look to your kitchen–creating a minimalist design. The under-cabinet holder can fit in with various cabinetry styles, like the custom cabinets offered here at Demetra Cabinetry.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before starting the installation, you’ll need a few essential tools and materials. Here's a list to make sure you're prepared:

Paper towel holder (under-cabinet style)
Drill with drill bits (appropriate size for screws)
Screws (usually included with the holder)
Measuring tape
Pencil or marker for marking drill points
Screwdriver
Level
Stud finder (optional, but recommended)

Most under-cabinet paper towel holders come with everything you need to install them, including screws. However, it’s important to check the instructions and make sure the kit contains all the parts.

How to Install a Paper Towel Holder Under a Cabinet

Choose the Right Location

Choosing the right spot for your paper towel holder is important for both functionality and aesthetics. You'll want it to be easily accessible, but also out of the way to avoid cluttering your counters.

Typically, under-cabinet holders are installed near the sink, where paper towels are frequently used for cleaning and drying dishes. Here’s how to decide on the perfect spot:

Near the sink: This location is most common because you can grab a paper towel quickly while washing dishes or cleaning up spills.
On the side of a cabinet: If you prefer a more discreet look, the side of a lower cabinet might be ideal.
Consider space: Make sure there's enough clearance under the cabinet for the holder and that you can easily tear a sheet without obstruction.

Use a measuring tape to make sure the location allows the paper towel roll to fit comfortably without interfering with drawers or other cabinet hardware.

Mark the Drill Points

Once you've chosen the location, it’s time to mark where you’ll drill the holes. Use a pencil or marker to mark the spots on the underside of the cabinet where the screws will go.

Most paper towel holders will have pre-made holes that you can use for alignment. For this reason, simply measure the distance between the holes and make corresponding marks on your cabinet.

To make sure that the holder will be level, use a small-level tool. This step is important for making sure the holder is straight and works properly once it’s installed.

Drill the Holes

Next, grab your drill and the appropriate-sized drill bit for the screws included with your paper towel holder. If you’re drilling into wood, a basic drill bit will work.

If you need to drill into drywall or a harder surface, you may want to use a masonry bit. For added stability, it’s always a good idea to drill into a stud, which is why a stud finder can come in handy. However, if that’s not an option, use anchors to secure the screws in place.

Drill the holes into the cabinet where you marked, being careful not to drill too deep or too wide. After drilling, clean up any dust or debris from the holes.

Attach the Paper Towel Holder

Once the holes are drilled, align the paper towel holder with the holes, and insert the screws through the holder’s mounting holes. Secure the screws tightly using a screwdriver. Be sure not to overtighten the screws, as that could cause damage to the cabinet or holder.

If your paper towel holder is designed to swivel or move, check that it functions properly by giving it a test twist. Make sure that it holds the paper towel roll securely and is easy to rotate or pull.

Add the Paper Towel Roll

Once your paper towel holder is installed, add a roll of paper towels to it. This is the final test—make sure the paper towels fit on the holder and can be easily dispensed with one hand.

At this point, you should also check the holder’s alignment one last time to guarantee that it’s level and securely attached.

Time to Tidy Up Your Kitchen

Installing an under-cabinet paper towel holder is a simple yet effective way to save space and add functionality to your kitchen. With just a few tools and the right setup, you can organize your space while keeping paper towels easily accessible and neatly stored.

Looking to refresh your kitchen cabinets while you’re at it? Demetra Cabinetry offers a variety of cabinetry options, including transitional & traditional cabinets, as well as contemporary cabinets, designed to suit your style and needs.

With over a decade of experience in the cabinetry business, our quality craftsmanship and fast production times make us the preferred choice. Find out what makes us unique and explore how we can help you create the kitchen of your dreams!