Craftsman Magnetic Towel Holder

Craftsman has long been a trusted name in the world of tools, and their magnetic towel holder seems like a practical addition to any workshop or garage. When I first got my hands on this magnetic paper towel holder, I was intrigued by its simple yet functional design. The tool is intended to be mounted on any metal surface, making it incredibly versatile for those of us who spend a lot of time in spaces filled with metal tool chests, cabinets, and other metallic surfaces.

The magnetic towel holder is built to accommodate most standard-sized rolls of paper towels or shop towels. What stands out immediately is the strength of the magnet. The rubber-coated magnet not only provides a secure attachment but also protects the paint on surfaces, which is a thoughtful touch. I've often found that some magnetic accessories can scratch or damage surfaces over time, but this one seems designed with care to avoid that issue.

Setting up the holder was straightforward. I simply placed it on the side of my tool chest, and it snapped into place with a satisfying click. The magnets are indeed strong, and they hold the holder firmly in place even when tugging on the paper towels. There was no fear of the holder shifting or falling off, which is a relief when you're in the middle of a project and need to grab a towel quickly.

However, as I used the holder more, a few issues became apparent. The design includes plastic clips that hold the paper towel roll in place, and unfortunately, these clips don't seem to match the overall sturdiness of the rest of the holder. While the metal body and strong magnets inspire confidence, the plastic clips feel somewhat flimsy. During my use, I found that these clips required some adjusting to ensure that the roll stayed securely in place. Bending the arms slightly inward helped, but it was an extra step I hadn't anticipated needing.

Another point to consider is the flexibility of placement. While the holder fits perfectly on the side of my lower cabinet, it doesn't fit as seamlessly on the upper chest due to different dimensions. It can be mounted vertically on the upper chest, but this isn't ideal for all setups, especially in tighter spaces. This limitation might not be a deal-breaker for everyone, but it's something to keep in mind depending on your workshop layout.

Durability is another concern worth noting. While my unit has held up so far, I've heard from others that the plastic clips can break under minimal stress. This inconsistency in durability is disappointing, especially from a brand like Craftsman that typically stands for quality. It's a shame because the rest of the holder feels robust and well-made.

On the positive side, the versatility of being able to place the holder anywhere with a metal surface is a significant advantage. In my steel shop building, I could move the holder around easily, finding the perfect spot for quick access to paper towels. The strong magnets ensure that once it's in place, it stays put, which is crucial when you're working with dirty or greasy hands and don't want to wrestle with a loose holder.

The magnetic towel holder also adds a layer of convenience that I didn't realize I needed. Having paper towels readily available at arm's length while working on various projects has streamlined my workflow. No more hunting for a roll buried under tools or clutter. It's right there when I need it, and that's a small but meaningful improvement in my daily routine.

In conclusion, the Craftsman magnetic towel holder is a solid addition to any workshop or garage, but it does come with some caveats. Its strongest attributes are the powerful magnets and the convenient, protective rubber coating. These features ensure that the holder stays put without damaging surfaces. The primary downside is the less-than-durable plastic clips that hold the towel roll in place. They require some tweaking to function correctly and might not stand up to prolonged use.

Would I recommend this tool? If you're looking for a convenient and versatile way to keep paper towels handy in your workshop, and you don't mind a bit of initial adjustment, then yes, I would recommend it. The ease of installation and the secure hold provided by the strong magnets make it a useful accessory. However, if durability is a paramount concern for you, especially regarding the plastic components, you might want to consider other options or be prepared for the possibility of needing a replacement down the line.

Overall, it's a handy tool that simplifies access to paper towels, making the inevitable spills and messes in the workshop easier to manage. Just be aware of its limitations and ensure it fits your specific needs and setup.