Welcome to the Toilet Travels blog where we discuss the best toilets and accessories and provide helpful, sometimes funny information on toilets.
While we aren’t your typical interior design website, we aim to offer helpful advice for the bathroom and more specifically the toilet, commode, or porcelain throne.
One thing every home needs is a toilet paper holder. If you’re a college student you can get away with leaving a toilet paper roll on top of the toilet tank, but let’s be honest, it looks a little sloppy.
The most common toilet paper holder is fixed to the wall. They’re relatively easy to install and only require a few screws. But don’t be limited by what everyone else is doing.
Feel free to spice things up with a unique toilet paper holder. Maybe you’ll want to use a toilet paper stand, or a modern toilet paper holder.
In this article we’ll mention a bunch of options and we’re sure that one will be perfect for your individual needs. Let’s get started.
Types of Toilet Paper Holders
- Wall fixture (traditional)
- Toilet attachment (hooks to toilet)
- Stand and/or free standing
- Unique or themed toilet paper holder
- Modern
- DIY toilet paper holder alternatives
As a blog that prides itself in being unique we encourage you to find something that brings your bathroom, and toilet, to life. There are a lot of creative options for toilet paper holders.
Some of our favorites are animal themed holders, toilet paper holders that have a top shelf, and toilet paper holders that affix to the toilet tank – no installation required.
We broken down the best toilet paper holders into a few sections below.
Toilet Paper Holder Alternatives
Best Toilet Paper Holder Stand
Toilet paper stands are actually much nicer than I expected. They can also provide a modern look to a bathroom. In addition to holding toilet paper currently in use, toilet stands also have storage areas that are helpful.
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Simple Houseware Toilet Paper Stand
With almost a 1000 positive reviews this stand is a best seller. It uses a minimalist design with a rounded chrome finish
The top of the stand measures 23.5 inches and it’s only 7.25 inches in diameter. This toilet paper stand will hold up to 3 toilet paper rolls plus the roll in use.
This is a great option if you don’t want to put holes in the wall or if you have young children that pull fixtures off the wall. Save the wall without sacrificing a nice style.
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InterDesign Free Standing Toilet Paper Holder
InterDesign makes another standing option that works much like the holder mentioned above. There are a few differences however.
One benefit of this holder is it comes in bronze and chrome. Depending on your color preferences an bronze holder might match your bathroom.
The other difference we notice is extra side support on the stand which makes it appear like the toilet paper rolls being stored are in jail. If you prefer straight lines, this might be a better standing option but if you like soft curves stick with the 1st option we mentioned.
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AmazonBasics Free Standing Toilet Paper Holder
AmazonBasics makes just about everything and they’ve created a simple toilet paper stand that will look good in any bathroom.
It measures10.5 x 6.5 x 28.5 inches and has more storage than most of the other free standing options (up to 4 with 1 in use). It’s made with metal and comes in a “nickel” option.
This toilet roll holder is also the simplest option – just two metal poles and a solid base. The stand weighs 2.9 pounds
I like how simple it is, yet it still looks great and will blend in with any bathroom style. Free standing toilet paper holders are especially nice because they can be moved while cleaning, or placed in a more convenient spot in the bathroom.
Also the rolls won’t take up space in the cupboards under the sink.
Reviews for AmazonBasics are excellent with many reviews saying they came back to buy more for other bathrooms!
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DecroBros Free Standing Toilet Paper Holder
DecroBros puts a twist on the standing toilet paper with a basket at the base of the stand. The toilet paper holder still has a modern free standing look but provides a little extra storage space for paper (up to 6 rolls) or books and magazines.
The basket may be handy for people who need to create more storage space. Soap, a tolet brush, or hand towels could be placed in the basket for convenience.
It measuers 15.5 x 9.5 x 7 inches and 2.76 pounds (similar to other options on our list). The slightly larger width of the basket will make it more sturdy to avoid falling over.
Most customers like the fact that it’s perfect for small bathrooms without much space. I think all of the free standing toilet paper holders on our list would be great for people lacking space!
Unique Toilet Paper Holders
In this section we’ll look at some unique toilet paper holders that you probably didn’t know existed. Sometimes it takes a little effort to find new and interesting options for your bathroom.
Themes are common for toilet paper holders. We’ve seen giraffe holders, dogs and cat holders, even scary skeletons that hold toilet paper!
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Elephant Toilet Paper Holder
This elephant is made from cast iron so it’s strong and durable. It’s strong enough so paper can be pulled from it, and it’s long enough to be used with paper towels as well.
Kids will love this toilet paper holder better than a standard holder and so will animal lovers. It only comes in one color so make sure the cast iron style fits with your bathroom.
The elephant measures 4 x 19 inches and weighs 3.7 pounds. Customers like that it is durable and how it adds character to any bathroom.
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LL Home Double Revolver Toilet Paper Holder
These revolvers come ready to go. The belt looks great and contains extra ammo and a wooden holder.
This is perfect for a country home or hunting cabin and blends in with an outdoor theme. The double revolvers are made from resin and holds 1 roll of toilet paper.
The toilet paper holder attaches onto the wall with screws and weighs 1.6 pounds. It measures 9 x 4.8 x 5.8 inches.
If you’re a gun collector you’ll like this gun. Kids who are into cowboys will also get some smiles from it. Just don’t expect the guns and belt to be actual size – they will be similar to a standard size toilet paper holder.
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Sheep Toilet Paper Holder
The toilet roll holder is perfect for large families and can hold up to 8 rolls if you stack all the way up! Placing the toilet paper on the holder actually creates a body for the sheep and looks great.
Although you could use the toilet paper from this holder, you might want to add a holder for the roll currently in use. This item is unique but works better for storage.
It measures 21 x 12 inches and can be attached to the wall – but looks better on the ground. The sheep is a fun gift for anyone who loves the outdoors but especially for families that own a farm.
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Rabbitroom Wall Mounted Toilet Paper Holder (Camera Shape)
Do you miss the Polaroid days where you could take a photo and get a print-out. Well, this “camera” mimics the old days but instead of a photo you get TP. It’s called the Polaroll.
It’s low-tech so there aren’t any noises or buttons to push but if you’re into the retro look and want a unique toilet paper holder then this is a good option. I also like that it’s colorful – why are so many holders plain or stainless steel?
It attaches to the wall and measures 7 x 6.1 x 4.3 inches, weighing 11.2 ounces. Some customers bought it as a gift for friends who love photography. Remember, it is plastic and it may take some fiddling to get the toilet paper in right.
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Anchor with Rope Toilet Paper Holder
This anchor toilet paper holder would be perfect in a beach house or even on a boat bathroom. The nautical theme looks great and can help liven up a bathroom.
It uses an actual anchor, albeit small, and a rope that are both made from resin. The paper holder measures 8 1/8 x 6 ¾ x 4 inches and affixes to the wall. It looks authentic however it’s a small anchor for display purposes only – no dropping anchor in the toilet.
Remember you’ll need your own screws to install it on the wall.
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Rustic Lakeside Collection With Shelf Back
If you’re an artsy type that wants functionality and décor, then this toilet paper holder will be right up you alley.
It comes in two color options, cream and black. Both colors have a worn appearance that is intentional.
I like that it’s made of wood, which will be durable, and that it has a handy storage shelf on top. You can put flowers, a picture, or a candle on the shelf and it makes the toilet paper holder a dual purpose fixture on the wall.
It measures 7 x 12 inches.
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Willie Black Bear Toilet Paper Holder
I’m not familiar with Willie the Black Bear but he sure looks happy holding TP (and Willie has other skills too – just search for Willie the Bear) This is another animal themed toilet paper holder. It mounts to the wall and has hangers on the back of the bear that hook onto the wall – fairly simple installation.
Many customers say they, or someone they love, are obsessed with bears so they collect bear products to arrange in the house.
Willie measures 6.5 x 7.5 inches. He prefers to be in the outdoors and feels at home in a cabin or near a trash bin. If you choose Willie he’ll always have a smile on his face and he’ll never get tired of feeding you TP.
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Fisherman’s Wooden Toilet Paper Reel
Another outdoor themed toilet paper holder! This one is hard to beat as it’s a reel. If you have a finishing retreat or just love to fish then this will work well in your bathroom. One important thing –brown trout fishing is not allowed in the toilet!
The paper holder is made of wood with a dark finish, measures 6 x 6 inches and includes the hardware needed to install it on the wall.
This toilet paper reel makes a good gift for family members and helps bring a room together with a theme. Customers are generally pleases with the product but mention the quality is lacking – be sure to tighten any screws and parts before installing. Also, it might have a hard time fitting big rolls.
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Evil Skeleton Toilet Paper Holder
The evil skeleton won’t be good for young children because it might give them nightmares. However, it’s a good gothic themed gift for someone who wants to scare guest or just keep them uncomfortable (who knew a toilet paper holder could make someone uneasy).
The skeleton toilet paper holder is made of resin and measure 8 x 4.5 x 8 1/8 inches. It is a very unique toilet paper holder and not for everyone.
Maybe your family installs it on Halloween or on the Day of the Dead. Or just gift it to a friend as a practical joke – better yet install it in a friends home without their knowledge.
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Trout Toilet Paper Holder
This is another unique toilet paper holder for people who enjoy fishing. The fish is made with stone and resin and can be wall mounted in just a few minutes.
This funny fish measures 9 x 6 x 6.5 and weighs 2 pounds. It looks funny and will brighten up everyone’s day (even people who don’t fish).
Like many of the other options on our list, the trout toilet paper holder will look good in a cabin or country home.
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Free Standing Giraffe Toilet Paper Holder
This is toilet paper holder is unique and uses the long neck of the giraffe to hold and store your TP.
It’s stronger than others on the list because it’s made from cast iron. If you prefer, you can also use in the kitchen for paper towels.
The giraffe has a neck that’s long enough to hold multiple toilet paper rolls. Because it’s tall the base is weighted for stability (measures 18 x 3.25 x 4.25 inches).
It comes at a reasonable price and it doubles as artwork. This giraffe also has a money back guarantee so if it’s not what you expected feel free to send it back.
Modern Toilet Paper Holder
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Leyden 1 Piece Wall Mount
Modern toilet paper holders are simple and sleek. They’re usually chrome or have a stainless steel finish.
This option from Leyden is all one piece. Made with simplicity in mind, the toilet paper holder attaches to the wall and papers rolls can easily be put on and taken off. With this holder, you’ve got nothing to learn – it’s straightforward.
The dimensions are 6.32 x 2.95 x 2.17 inches and it weighs only 11 ounces. Customers like that it accommodates various sizes of toilet paper (including mega-rolls) and they appreciate the nicely designed look.
The style blends in with most modern homes and won’t attract unnecessary attention.
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APL Toilet Paper Holder
APL offers a modern design but also looks industrial. The holder comes in a number of different colors including brushed nickel, mat white, and black. If you have a white wall the white colored holder will blend in nicely.
The feature I like best about this toilet paper holder is the top shelf, which cover the toilet paper and provides an area to place a phone or keys while using the toilet. The modern design is simple to install and rolls easily slide on and off. It fits mega-rolls and all oversized rolls.
It measures 6.7 x 4.7 x 3.1 inches and weighs 1.12 pounds.
Customers like that it is build well (strong) and say wet wipes go nicely on top of the shelf. They also like that it’s made of one piece – other than attaching to the wall there is no assembly required.
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KES Modern Toilet Paper Holder (rounded)
This toilet paper is similar the Leyden option but is rounded. Rather than highlighting straight lines, the toilet paper holder shows off it’s curves, yet remains simple with one piece of stainless steel.
It measures 6.5 x 3.3 x 5.5 inches and 7.2 ounces and fits most toilet paper rolls (it will have trouble with mega-rolls from Costco).
Customers mention the product is strong and well-made. Some buyers elect to stand the holder straight up so the toilet paper doesn’t fall off when knocked or brushed – if that’s something you need this holder will work!
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Gatco Free Standing Modern Toilet Paper Holder
Gatco make a nice modern holder that doesn’t need to be installed on wall. With a few color options to chose from the holder Gatco provides a simple look with a practical device.
I like the strong base of the holder and the height. One thing I think is very cool is the lateral holder folds upward to allow storage on the vertical stand below (so this stand can hold 3-4 rolls at a time.
It measures 7.9 x 5.1 x 21.1 inches and 3.7 pounds. Customers like the packaging, design and customer service. There are mixed reviews about the weight of the stand, however the weight is purposely added to the base to keep it stable.
DIY Toilet Paper Holder For Storage
If you’re a do-it-yourselfer you may want to explore making a homemade toilet paper holder. Surprisingly, a toilet paper holder can be made with simple tools and materials found around a home.
All it takes is a walk around the garage and you’ll likely find a few wood, plastic, or metal pieces that can be assembled into a toilet roll holder. You might be wondering “what type of wood, plastic, or metal pieces can I use for a homemade toilet paper holder”.
Materials for a DIY Toilet Paper Holder (look for scraps like the following)
- Wooden broom handle
- Plastic irrigation piping
- Drip irrigation piping
- Metal piping for pluming or gas
- Rope
- Screws, screw driver
- Metal hinge (for wall anchor)
The most simple designs is to use a piece of string/rope, a single screw or a plastic adhesive hook, and a rounded stick (wood, metal, plastic). The string or rope can be tied (not knotted because you’ll need to untie to put more TP on). After the string or rope is tied it can be hung from a single screw on the wall or plastic hook that sticks to the wall.
For a free standing toilet paper holder, use plastic or metal piping to create a vertical stand with a strong base (think erector set for kids). For an industrial look use metal pipes which look good in modern minimalist apartments.
Free standing DIY toilet paper holders are a great option for someone who doesn’t want to put holes in their walls.
Looking for a minimalist outdoors theme? Send the kids outside to look for short twigs. Most twigs are inherently round and strong so they’ll support a mega-roll of TP.
Tie a thin rope around the edges of the twig and hook the rope to a hook or screw. The ideas are limitless if you use your imagination.
Conclusion
Toilet paper holders. We all need them. But they don’t have to look so boring. Go into 90% of bathrooms and you’ll notice a toilet paper holder that is cheap and plastic.
Even worse, some of the white plastic holders develop a yellowish color that takes over the white.
Rather than be ordinary, why not stand out? Believe it or not people will notice your toilet paper holder if it is original. Some of the best toilet paper holders we mentioned are:
- Modern chrome free standing
- Minimalist with shelf on top
- Animal themed (bears, dogs, giraffes)
- Homemade DIY toilet paper holder with metal pipes
- DIY twig toilet paper holder
We tried to touch on all the options you’re looking for. If we missed any ideas be sure to let us know in the comments.
Thanks for reading another article from the porcelain throne. Visit our homepage for more of the best toilet ideas!