You can use paper towels in a dehydrator in some cases, but they’re not a great substitute for parchment paper—especially for long drying times or high-moisture foods. Here's the full picture:
| Factor | Paper Towels | Parchment Paper |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Resistance | Low — can scorch above 130°F | High — safe up to 420°F |
| Non-stick | No — food may stick | Yes — perfect for sticky foods |
| Airflow | Can block airflow if bunched | Allows good air circulation |
| Safety | Can dry out and become flammable | Safe and designed for ovens |
For low-temp drying under 120°F (like herbs, flowers, or peanut shells)
For lining trays temporarily, then removing later in the process
As a drip-catcher, not a food contact layer
For juicy or sticky foods (bananas, meat, fruit leather)
For hot temps like jerky (160°F+)
If it will be in the dehydrator over 8 hours
| Option | Safe? | Reusable? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parchment Paper | ✅ Yes | ❌ One-time | Most foods (cut to size) |
| Silicone Dehydrator Sheets | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Fruit leathers, sticky items |
| Wax Paper | ❌ No | ❌ | Not heat safe |
| Cheesecloth or Mesh | ✅ Yes (low temps) | ✅ Maybe | Herbs, leafy greens |
Paper towels are OK for low-heat, dry items like peanut shells, but for fruits, meats, or cooked foods, you’ll want to use parchment paper or silicone sheets.
Here are budget-friendly reusable or DIY alternatives to parchment paper for your dehydrator:
Heat-safe, non-stick, dishwasher safe
Perfect for fruit leathers, meats, mashed foods
Trim with scissors to fit your trays exactly
🔍 Search for:
“Silicone dehydrator liners” or “Non-stick dehydrator mats”
💲 Cheap brands:
Wegreeco, Bright Kitchen, or generic Amazon brands
Usually ~$7–15 for a 2–3 pack
Buy one or two large silicone baking mats
Cut to fit your trays with scissors
🧠 Tip: Use hole punchers to add airflow holes (like a mesh)
Breathable and cheap
Not for sticky or liquidy foods
Can sew elastic or clips on to keep them flat on trays
🔍 Look for:
“Unbleached cheesecloth” or “cotton muslin fabric”
Reusable, non-stick, very thin
Sold as “dehydrator screens” or “Teflon dehydrator liners”
They often come pre-cut for brands like Excalibur but can be cut to fit any tray shape.
Old silicone baking mat? Cut it up
Plastic cutting mat? Only if BPA-free & temp safe (rare—test at low temp)
Plastic mesh produce bags (like from onions)? Good airflow for herbs, not food contact