Bathroom towel bars are often considered accessories, but they are actually functional as well as decorative. They are especially useful for small bathrooms because they provide convenient storage without taking up any floor space. This helps reduce clutter and keep your bathroom organized. Towel bars can even prevent mold and mildew because they help towels dry faster, reducing moisture levels in the bathroom.

A towel bar can accent an otherwise bare wall, or complement your paint color or tile design. There are different styles and sizes available, so you’re sure to find one that fits your bathroom décor. Here are some of your options when buying towel bars.

Length

Towel bars are available in standard lengths of 18, 24, 30, and 36 inches. Before buying, check the available wall space where you want to install the bar. Also consider the size of your towels, and how many you have. If you want to hang your towels spread out, you’ll need a longer bar.

Style

Towel bars can be as basic as one bar screwed to the wall, or consist of two or more bars set at different heights. Double towel bars are great for families or those living in shared apartments. Some even have a wide top where you can put small items like soap dishes or toothbrush holders.

There are also heated towel bars, which you plug into a power socket and control with timers and on-off switches. They are meant to keep towels warm, but they can also be used as passive clothes dryers or as heating units for the entire bathroom.

Material

Most towel bars are made of metal, typically brass or stainless steel. Wood and plastic bars are also available, but metal bars work best because they are more resistant to stains, heat and moisture. Avoid wooden towel bars, because they are easily damaged by the humidity and regular brushing against wet towels. Plastic is slightly more durable, but it’s more prone to mold and mildew growth.

Installation

The best height for towel bars is midway between elbow and shoulder height, or about 48 inches above the floor. For children’s baths, install the bars at about 36 inches. Leave at least three inches between the bar and the wall to minimize contact between the wall and the damp towels.

Make sure the bar is straight and even before you fix it in place. You can use the grout lines as guide if your walls are tiled. Otherwise, you can simply mark the spot with a pencil or tape.Keep your towel bar a safe distance from power sockets, unless it’s the heated type. Damp towels can cause sparks or short circuits when they touch the conductive metal of the socket.

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