Paper towel/toilet paper roll protector

Abstract

Some embodiments of the present disclosure include a device for protecting an upper exposed edge of a roll of paper products, such as paper towels or toilet paper, situated on a vertical dispenser. The device may include a substantially circular protector having an outer circumference and an inner orifice concentrically aligned with the outer circumference, the inner orifice being configured to align with a central opening in the roll of paper products. In some embodiments, the device may further include die cut triangles extending into the inner orifice, the die cut triangles configured flex into a position to secure the protector in place.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A device for protecting an upper exposed edge of a roll of paper products situated on a vertical dispenser, the device comprising:
 a substantially circular protector having an outer circumference and an inner orifice concentrically aligned with the outer circumference, the inner orifice being configured to align with a central opening in the roll of paper products.   
     
     
         2 . The device of  claim 1 , further comprising at least one die cut triangle extending from the protector into the inner orifice, the die cut triangle configured to flex downward into a position to secure the protector in place. 
     
     
         3 . The device of  claim 2 , wherein the at least one die cut triangle comprises at least one score configured to help the triangle flex without tearing. 
     
     
         4 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the protector has a size suitable for covering an entire exposed upper edge of the roll of paper products. 
     
     
         5 . The device of  claim 4 , wherein:
 the protector has a diameter of from about 5½ inches to about 6 inches; and   the inner orifice has a diameter of from about 1½ inches to about 1 6/8 inches.   
     
     
         6 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein a surface of the protector being positioned against the roll of paper products is substantially smooth to avoid damaging the paper product. 
     
     
         7 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the device comprises a reusable, washable material. 
     
     
         8 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the device comprises a disposable material. 
     
     
         9 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the paper product is selected from the group consisting of a paper towel roll and a roll of toilet paper.