A paper-towel holder has but a few tasks — load easily, unroll manageably — and it should do them well. Real Simple refilled 33 different models to find the standouts. No need to unscrew knobs or press buttons to load the freestanding picks, while the wall-mounted holders save counterspace and can endure one-handed tugs when your fingers are covered in oil or flour.

Freestanding

The Williams-Sonoma Spring-Loaded holder (pictured, $29, www.williams-sonoma.com) has a weighted base that keeps it steady on the counter, even with hard pulls.

Wall-Mounted

With the Williams-Sonoma wall-mounted holder ($19, www.williams-sonoma.com), you just rest a roll on top and thread a sheet through the rack. If your family tears through paper towels, opt for the adjustable Forma brushed-stainless-steel holder (bottom, $20, www.stacksandstacks.com), which will hold jumbo rolls.