20 Clever Ways to Hang Kitchen Towels

Kitchen towels are a household essential. Not only are they handy for drying dishes, hands, and counters, they can also add a decorative flair when thoughtfully displayed. But with limited space, finding ways to neatly hang towels without eating up storage can be a challenge.

Luckily, with a bit of creativity, you can come up with clever solutions for hanging kitchen towels in functional and beautiful ways. From wall-mounted bars to repurposed fixtures, there are plenty of options to neatly organize your towels while complementing your kitchen's style.

Wall-Mounted Racks and Bars

One popular approach is installing wall-mounted towel racks or bars. These can be purchased in a variety of materials like wood, metal, or ceramic, as well as different styles such as industrial pipe racks for a modern look or rustic wood bars for a cozy cottage feel. Wall-mounted bars keep your counters clutter-free and provide flexible sizing options to fit small hand towels or large drying towels.

When placing a wall-mounted rack, consider mounting it near your sink for easy access. You can also install a towel bar on the back of a door, pantry or cabinet to maximize your vertical storage.

Standing Towel Racks

If drilling into walls isn't an option, consider a freestanding towel rack. These come in styles like towel "ladders," tree-shaped racks, or single pedestal racks. Materials range from wood and metal to bamboo. Standing racks provide a space-saving alternative to wall-mounted racks and can be positioned in corners or next to appliances for convenient access.

Towel Rings and Hooks

For an even simpler approach, opt for individual towel rings or hooks installed in your choice of locations. These can be screwed into walls, cabinets, and even handles. From simple metal hooks to intricately carved rings, a variety of stylish options are available in finishes like brass, nickel, black, or white.

The benefit of rings and hooks is that they allow you to customize your arrangement and reposition towels easily. Cluster several hooks together or scatter them for an eclectic look.

Hanging from Cabinets and Shelves

If you want to forego permanent installation, try draping towels from existing hardware. Hook towels over cabinet pulls, drawer handles, or even the edges of open shelves. Hanging towels from cabinet doors helps keep them off counters while still being readily available. The same goes for folding towels attractively on open dish racks or shelves.

Sink and Counter Draping

For an ultra-convenient option, neatly drape towels over your sink and faucet edges. Folded towels can also be displayed on a countertop near appliances for quick access and an orderly look. Just be mindful of potential water splashes or spills from cooking when choosing placement, especially for more delicate linens.

Open Shelving and Baskets

Display folded towels in style by designating open cubbies, shelves, or even a section of dish cabinet for towel storage. Bins, baskets, or caddies also corral towels while adding texture. The key with open storage is maintaining visibility and access. Use shelf liners to prevent slipping and make sure towels don't end up buried behind dishes.

Magnetic Strips and Towels

Magnetic strips provide a modern, minimalist way to hang towels without eating up wall space. Mount a magnetic strip wherever you need towel access, then use towels with magnetic backs to attach securely. This system makes it easy to reposition towels and keeps walls clear of hooks and racks.

Repurposing Existing Fixtures

Take advantage of what's already available in your kitchen. Install an undersink towel rack to maximize that narrow space. Coat hooks or rods intended for hanging pans can also function as towel racks. You can even hang towels from existing drawer pulls and handles. Repurposing saves installation time and money.

Hanging by Backsplash

Make use of the narrow area between your counter and upper cabinets. Install hooks along the edge of your backsplash to hang towels within arm's reach as you cook. This works especially well in galley kitchens. Just make sure hooks don't obstruct cabinet doors.

Vertical Space Utilization

Look up for more storage potential. Install over-the-door towel racks on the back of pantry doors or upright on cabinet doors to take advantage of vertical real estate. Wall space stays clear, while you benefit from hidden storage that doesn't occupy counter or drawer space.

Combining Form and Function

The best kitchen towel hangers marry utility and beauty. Seek out options that are as lovely as they are practical. Mixing styles, like a sleek metals bar with earthy rattan baskets, can allow you to achieve a custom look while keeping your space organized. For another blended approach, opt for a basic towel ring or bar enhanced by attractive knobs.

Choosing Materials and Textures

Consider absorbency and durability when selecting towels and holders. Cotton, linen and terrycloth are go-to fabrics for their ability to dry effectively. Match your towel colors to your existing kitchen scheme or palette. Play with different textures like waffle and jacquard weaves to complement the overall aesthetic.

Beyond just hanging, carefully rolling, folding or fanning out towels in pleasing ways transforms them into artful decor. Coordinate colored towels in chromatic arrangements. Layer different sizes and shapes for visual interest. Change up your towel display seasonally or for holidays to give your kitchen an instant refresh.

Kitchen towels can be both functional and fashionable with a bit of creativity. Try out these clever hanging ideas to discover approaches that cater to your space and style.