Toilet Paper Holder Buying Guide: The Basics You Need to Know

Lexia Toilet Paper Holder in Brushed Gold

A toilet paper holder, also referred to as a toilet paper dispenser, is an essential bathroom accessory in every home. They keep your tissue within reach, make it easy to dispense, and do their part in keeping your space orderly. However, not all toilet paper holders are created equal. There are some important considerations and features to keep in mind while shopping, and to help you make an informed choice, we’ll cover the basics for you.

Types of Toilet Paper Holders

Wall Mount

The most common type, wall-mounted toilet paper holders attach using screws and mounting brackets. Installation is simple using household tools, and they typically include the hardware needed. They’re available in a broad range of finishes, styles, and sizes to accommodate standard or oversized toilet paper rolls.

Freestanding

Freestanding toilet paper holders are perfect for those who have space and would rather not, or don’t have the option to, drill into their wall to mount a dispenser. They take up a little bit of room on the floor, but they do offer a unique aesthetic and can be easily swapped out if you ever change the design of your space.

Wall Mount

Freestanding

Tank Mount

This type of bathroom toilet paper holder will hook onto the tank of your toilet where it’s always within reach. Tank-mount styles provide another option for those who would rather not or lack the option to drill into their walls.

Toilet Paper Holder Designs

Modern

Beasley Toilet Paper Holder in Brushed Nickel

Traditional

Hibiscus Toilet Paper Holder in Matte Black

Industrial

Common Finishes

Polished Brass

Polished Nickel

Oil Rubbed Bronze

Chrome

Black

Toilet Paper Holder Features

Flap

Some toilet paper holders feature a metal flap that hangs over the front of the roll. While this adds a nice aesthetic, it also serves a purpose—keeping your toilet paper dry. This is especially useful in wet bathrooms or in bathrooms occupied by children who like to splash during bath time.

Recessed Mount

Although the installation of a recessed toilet paper holder is a bit more involved (it requires modifications to your wall), it pays off, especially in a tight area. Rather than fully sticking out, your toilet paper roll will hang partially inside the wall where it’s out of the way.

Ceeley Flap Toilet Paper Holder in Chrome

Open-Ended

Also referred to as European, or “Euro” toilet paper holders, open-ended options make it easy to swap out used rolls for new ones. They also accommodate oversized rolls since the holder’s arm will typically swing outward to allow more space between it and the wall.

Vertical Mount

If you’re looking for a toilet paper holder for small bathroom spaces, try this clever option. Mounting vertically to your wall, these fit well in tight spaces where a standard horizontal one may not, such as the small area between your toilet and vanity cabinet. Otherwise, these look very similar to open-ended options and offer many of the same benefits.

Drea Open-Ended Toilet Paper Holder in Brushed Gold

Shelf

A toilet paper roll holder sometimes features a small, convenient shelf built into its design. This addition keeps small items nearby and off the floor when you're in the bathroom.

ADA Compliant

To make your toilet paper holder accessible to all, there are just a few requirements. According to reThink Access, an ADA toilet paper holder needs to be mounted on the side wall adjacent to your toilet, with its center measuring 7" to 9" from the front of the toilet. The height from the floor to bottom of the holder can range from 15" to 48".