How we test paper towels

Here's how we find the best paper towels.

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Last updated: 18 Aug 2022

We all want our paper towels to be strong, absorbent, separate easily at the perforation and not tear easily when we are using them and they’re wet.

Here we’ll tell you what goes on behind the scenes when we test paper towels to get the best results that help you choose what to buy.

Our expert testers

We buy paper towels available from the major supermarket retailers, and send them to a laboratory for testing.

In-house, we work out the value of each product by determining how much it costs per 100 sheets. We also take a closer look at the labelling claims, such as recycled and chlorine-free, to find out what they all mean.

How we choose which paper towels we test

With most of our product testing, our aim is to choose the most popular models on the market and what you’re most likely to see in the retailers. In the case of paper towels, our aim is to cover as much of the market as possible. Our buyers purchase all the paper towel products they can find in the major supermarkets.

How does CHOICE test paper towels?

Absorption

We measure how much fluid the paper towel can absorb.

Puncture force

We measure the strength of the paper towel by testing its resistance to puncturing. In this test a higher force is the most desirable result, meaning your finger is less likely to go through the paper.

Perforation

We measure the ease of separating the paper towel at the perforation. The easier it is for the paper towel to tear, the better.

Wet tear strength

We test how much force is required to tear the paper towel when it’s wet, as it would be when you are cleaning or wiping up a spill.

Test criteria explained

The CHOICE Expert Rating is made up of:

Absorption (60%)
Puncture (strength) force (20%)
Perforation (10%)
Wet tear strength (10%)

Matthew

I've worked for CHOICE for roughly 20 years, from customer service to testing and content production and now to Director of Reviews and Testing, which conducts all the testing content for CHOICE. My background in IT started my path in testing for CHOICE Computer, but CHOICE has a strong call for me because of two core elements - it's a for-purpose business that is mission driven. That mission attracts a range of passionate people, including our staff and members alike, dedicated to making Australia more fair, safe and just for Australian consumers. My educational background is in Ethics and I currently sit as a council member on the Standards Australia Council, representing CHOICE. I'm also one of the people that add up the energy and carbon credits to make sure we stay carbon neutral. You can find me on LinkedIn.