We recommend paper towels with a CHOICE Expert Rating of at least 70%, an absorption score of at least 70% and no other scores below 65%.

The overall score is made up of absorption (60%), puncture (strength) force (20%), separation (tear at the perforation) force (10%) and wet tear strength (10%).

In this test we assess how much liquid the paper towel can absorb.

We test how easily the paper towel will tear when wet to show how strong it is, or if you're dealing with something you don't particularly want coming through the towel.

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

We assess 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.

This is the price we paid at the time of testing.

This is based on the pack size tested. Buying in bulk can help to reduce costs.

Based on the pack size tested. This will vary based on the price at the time of purchase.

Shop Ethical rates the environmental and social impact of the company (not the product) using independent sources. This rating is not included in our total score. N/A means there is no rating for that company.

Company that owns the brand name.

The Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) is an international organisation that works to promote sustainable forest management.

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is an international, nonprofit organisation that promotes responsible forest management. It achieves this by setting standards on forest products with a certification process. You'll find the FSC tree-tick logo on some paper towel packs, but if you take a closer look at the fine print you'll notice there are three classifications to the label – FSC Mix, FSC Recycled, and FSC 100%.

Where the product was made. An asterisk indicates that while the product was made in Australia, it was manufactured using imported materials.

Number of rolls in the pack we tested.

This simply refers to the number of layers of paper used. Generally the higher the ply count, the thicker, stronger and more absorbent the paper towel will be.