5 Creative Options for Hanging Kitchen Towels

Hand towels are essential in almost every kitchen, used for tasks ranging from drying hands and dishes to cleaning up spills. If you haven't designated one or more spots for storing towels, you know how frustrating it can be to hunt for one when you need it. Besides their utility, hand towels can also add a touch of color and pattern to your kitchen decor.

Finding the best places to hang your towels can save a lot of hassle and also enhance your kitchen's style. However, it can be tricky to find the perfect towel holder, especially if space is limited or there's no ideal spot for a towel bar.

Here are five ideas for placing kitchen towels so they're always within reach and look great, too.

Appliance Handles

One easy way to keep your towels handy is by hanging them on any available appliance handles. This method is great because it requires no installation—no need to drill holes or mount any bars. This can be easily done in almost any kitchen.

This works especially well on appliance handles that are at eye level, like those on a wall oven. Be cautious of hanging towels on lower handles, as they can drag on the floor every time you open the appliance door.

Hidden Towel Bars

If you prefer not to have exposed hand towels, there are still several options for you. One of the simplest solutions is to mount a towel bar to the back of a cabinet door. Many people choose to do this under the sink, which is a convenient spot for frequent towel use.

Alternatively, you can install a pull-out towel bar to hang multiple towels. Brands like Rev-A-Shelf offer various options for these solutions. These accessories are generally easy to install yourself.

Draped Over the Sink

Particularly in kitchens with drop-apron farmhouse sinks, draping towels over the front of the sink can be a practical way to hang them. Towels hung this way will dry without wrinkles and will be within easy reach whenever you need one.

However, avoid hanging damp towels over wooden base cabinets, as the moisture can stain varnished surfaces or damage the wood.

Exposed Towel Bars

A towel bar under the sink or inside a cabinet isn't practical for everyone. Moreover, many towels are quite stylish and it would be a shame to hide them away. Exposed towel bars not only offer functionality but also allow you to showcase attractive designer towels, adding color and pattern to your kitchen.

Don't hesitate to use towel bars originally designed for bathrooms. These bars come in various decorative styles and finishes to match your kitchen decor. However, keep in mind that bathroom towel bars are designed for large bath towels and typically stick out 3 to 4 inches, which may not be suitable for smaller kitchens. If you have a countertop overhang of 4 to 6 inches, this setup might work well. They can be ideal for kitchen islands, where bathroom towel bars work perfectly for storing all your kitchen towels.

Appliance Pulls

If you're tight on aisle or cabinet space, consider using an appliance pull as a towel bar. Appliance pulls are add-on handles designed for appliances that can accommodate exterior panels matching your cabinetry.

The benefit of using this type of pull handle is that they are longer than standard cabinet pulls, usually ranging from 12 to 30 inches. They also project further from the cabinetry, giving your towel ample clearance. You can find them in various lengths, finishes, and styles to complement your kitchen design.