Towel Rails Explained

A towel rail holds towels so they dry quickly between uses. In the UK, the term usually covers heated towel rails and rails designed to work with a radiator, both of which help towels dry faster and keep the bathroom feeling fresh.

Heated Towel Rails

A heated towel rail warms your towels and adds some heat to the room. Wall-mounted and floor standing styles are available, from modern ladder designs to traditional column shapes. Heated rails can be connected to central heating, run on electricity, or both, depending on the model.

Radiator Towel Rails

If you already have a radiator in the bathroom, a rail that fits onto it is a simple way to add towel space. These rails attach to compatible radiators, so check the product page for the radiator types they are designed to fit.

Choosing the Size

Measure the wall space you have, including room for pipework or a plug socket. Larger rails hold more towels and give out more heat, while compact rails suit small bathrooms and cloakrooms.

Towel Rail or Towel Bar?

A towel rail is usually heated or works with a radiator, while a towel bar is a simple wall-mounted bar with no heat. Many bathrooms use both: a heated rail for bath towels and a bar or ring for hand towels.

Add Somewhere to Hang a Robe

Pair your rail with robe hooks so dressing gowns and towels in use have their own place.

Part of our towel accessories range.