The 10 Best Automated Paper Towel Dispensers
This wiki has been updated 15 times since it was first published in May of 2020. Designed primarily for offices and commercial properties, these automated dispensers are activated via a motion-sensor. They deliver a measured amount of paper towel to prevent waste, and since they are touch-free, they also promote hygiene. They are available in a range of sizes suitable for high and low-traffic areas, and for a variety of roll sizes appropriate for both kitchens and washrooms. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Tork Matic 461102
2. Innovia Counter-top
3. Innovia Smart Dispenser
Editor's Notes
September 16, 2020:
Paper towels are useful for all kinds of hygiene applications in the bathroom or kitchen, such as drying hands, soaking up spills, cleaning, and wiping surfaces. A regular towel dispenser requires the user to touch surfaces that may be unclean, and especially in public places, people often take more than is necessary, leading to wastage and ultimately an increase in cost. In this ranking, we selected a variety of dispensers that accept different sized rolls of paper, from large household rolls to smaller toilet paper rolls.
If you are looking for a kitchen towel dispenser, the Innovia Counter-top is a free-standing model that accepts any regular-sized household roll and has a carrying handle that allows it to be moved around the kitchen as needed. Similarly, the Innovia Smart Dispenser will hold most brands and roll sizes and can be installed under a cabinet. It features a useful setting that will continuously deliver paper when the sensor is activated and retracts any unused sheets after use. Those looking for a dispenser for toilet paper may consider the San Jamar Touchless, which can be refilled using standard rolls and measures out 10-inch lengths upon every activation. The Georgia-Pacific Ultra Mini is a compact option that can accept toilet paper and hand towels, making it very versatile. It should be noted, however, that both of these can only be powered with batteries.
The other options we selected are for hand towels only, and are suitable for different sized rolls depending on the location. The largest options are the Georgia Pacific Enmotion and the Kimberly-Clark Scott Pro, these require a 10-inch roll but must be used with the brand's own paper, so while good for high-traffic areas, they can be quiet costly to refill. The San Jamar Smart Essence, on the other hand, will work with any brand of paper and can be programmed to adjust the sheet length and delay time. The Palmer Fixture Electra is also fully adjustable and has the added benefit of being powered by batteries, an AC adapter, or a DC adapter. The Kimberly-Clark Professional Sanitouch is notable as it doesn't require a power source at all, rather when the exposed paper is pulled it is cut at 12 inches in length, then the next towel is automatically advanced.
Special Honors
Sustainable Supply. Looking for a high-quality dispenser for a public washroom? This company provides a range of stainless-steel combination waste receptacles and paper towel dispensers that can be recessed into the wall and are tamper-proof, giving you reliability and peace of mind. sustainablesupply.com
4. Kimberly-Clark Professional Sanitouch
5. Georgia-Pacific Ultra Mini
6. San Jamar Smart Essence
7. Kimberly-Clark Scott Pro
8. Georgia Pacific Enmotion
9. Palmer Fixture Electra
10. San Jamar Touchless
Starting his career in the building industry, Chris built and managed a plumbing and heating company in northern England. After 13 years, seeking a more fulfilling lifestyle, he moved to southeast Asia, eventually settling in Vietnam, where he teaches writing and comprehension at a number of international universities. Drawing on his previous experience, and his passion for kitesurfing and windsurfing, Chris is knowledgeable in all things water related both recreationally and within the construction industry.