There are few things in the kitchen more useful, or more used, than a trusty dish towel. Sure, our pots, pans, and utensils are well-loved and we couldn’t whip together a meal without them, but what helps us maneuver those hot handles and steamy lids? And what cleans the grease off our hands and splatters off our counters? And what dries and wipes and covers and protects quite like the unsung hero of every home cook?
So, is it any wonder we may have strong opinions about this essential kitchen tool that is the humble towel? Whether you prefer waffle weave, terry cloth, linen, decorative, or plain, chances are, you have a go-to. I know I do, and I go through them quite often, which is why—after years of random purchases and drawers full of misfit towels—I just have to share my pick.
Ikea’s $1 Hildegun Dish Towel Is My Favorite Kitchen Staple
Ikea
I’ve been using Ikea’s Hildegun dish towels since I discovered them long ago, when I was stocking my first kitchen post-college (Is there any other way to discover an Ikea find?). They caught my eye with their bistro-style charm and blue- or red-stripe design that never goes out of fashion (I have both!). They kept me coming back because of their durability and feel. 100 percent cotton means they are absorbent, don’t streak or leave lint, and wash well. Plus, they have a handy loop for easy hanging in each corner of my kitchen and are the perfect size, at 24 by 18 inches. But the pièce de résistance is that they are a steal at just 99 cents each. For a single dollar bill, you can stock up and not worry too much if they get ruined, stained, or “borrowed”—all inevitabilities.
They are ideal for everyday use, yet I don’t worry too much if I need to retire one to the dust rag pile.
What’s more, 800-plus five-star reviews on the product page prove that plenty of shoppers are on my same wavelength. The comments are loaded with claims of this being the “best towel,” and “Great for everything! Love them for cleaning my eyeglasses, wiping up messes, drying dishes, etc.” Others mention they are a “great staple for the kitchen,” and suggest we “save money on paper towels and napkins with these instead. Great for packing a lunch or picnic.”
Ikea Shopper Olena
“These are great multipurpose towels—I always need something like this in the kitchen.”
— Ikea Shopper Olena
It’s even like I wrote this review myself: “These are great multipurpose towels—I always need something like this in the kitchen. Love that they’re made of cotton and hold up well after washing. The color stays vibrant, and they’re perfect for all kinds of kitchen tasks,” a shopper states.
The customer feedback is packed with uses for this $1 find beyond wiping and drying as well. “I use these towels in my kitchen for everyday towels, but I also use them for straining yogurt and for bread making. They’re perfect for all different kitchen tasks. When they start to get stained and tattered (they also do shrink), they get moved to shop towels and my husband and I use them for house project clean up,” one notes.
Another adds, “Everyone needs extra kitchen towels. These are so cheap, I just grab a handful every time we go to Ikea. They aren’t just for dishes either. They make a good addition to a housewarming gift basket, [or] to use as a gift wrap,” (for baked goods, perhaps?).
Finally, some even add a more personal touch, “I’ve purchased these kitchen towels on every visit. I love them in my kitchen, I’ve embroidered them and given them as gifts!”
The closest Ikea to my house is 40 minutes away, but I make a yearly trip to replenish my supply of towels. I use these workhorses all day, every day, and at a buck apiece, they’re the best bargain in my kitchen (next to my Aldi wine glasses).
