Cheaper Kitchen Towels I never buy kitchen towels in the housewares department. Go to the automotive section of your department store and get the white terry cloth towels. A package of 12 in my area costs under five dollars and they don't shed or wear out quickly. They're great in the kitchen and for cleaning around the house. I also hang a fresh one in my waistband or beltloop when I'm cooking to wipe my hands on.