Tools and Materials
Know Before You Shop
You’ll likely need at least one pair of wall anchors, even if you’re able to screw one of the brackets into a wall stud. We’ll show how to mount your towel bar or rack both ways.
- If you need a custom-size towel bar to fit a specific space, buy the next size up and cut the bar to fit using a hack saw.
- Even the best towel bar or rack isn’t meant to be used as a grab bar.
- If you need to cut the towel bar, use tape where you’ll make the cut to keep the saw from slipping as you start.
- Measure your towel’s length and divide it by 2 to get the minimum height for your towel bar or towel ring.
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Towel Bar?
On average, it doesn’t cost much to install a towel bar, a towel ring or a bathroom shelf with a towel bar. The towel bar usually comes with all the hardware you need. However, occasionally the manufacturer won’t include drywall anchors, in which case you’ll need to purchase those on your own.
Where to Install Your Towel Bar
Hold the towel bar or rack in position and use an electronic stud finder to check for wall studs. If you have the space, see if you can shift the bar or rack holders slightly to align at least one with a stud. Then mark the center of just one bar holder.
Remove the mounting brackets from the bar or rack holders and press one against the wall where you marked the mounting location, making sure you’ve picked the correct towel bar height. You can rest it on a level to ensure it’s straight. Use the two holes to mark the mounting screw locations. For more information, watch our video How Do I Find a Wall Stud?
Can You Install a Towel Bar on Drywall?
You can install a towel bar on drywall. After you’ve determined the proper height for the towel bar, measure and mark the holes for the mounting brackets. If possible, attach the towel bar mounting brackets to a wall stud. If that’s not possible, you’ll need to use drywall anchors. Check out our guide How to Use Drywall Anchors.
How High Should You Hang a Towel Bar or Towel Ring?
Install the towel bar or towel ring at a comfortable height for those who’ll use it. Make sure it keeps your largest towel off of the floor. Common mounting heights are 30 inches for spaces used by children and 48 inches for those used by adults. You might want to match the towel bar height to the top of a vanity or sink to extend horizontal visual lines. Mount the bar or rack in a location where it’s within easy reach and won’t be mistaken for a grab bar.
How to Mount Your Towel Bar or Towel Rack
These steps show you how to install a towel bar, a towel rack or a bathroom shelf with a towel bar, either into a stud or without a stud using drywall anchors.
How Do You Install a Towel Bar Without Drilling?
It’s possible to install a towel bar without drilling, although attaching the towel bar to wall studs or with drywall anchors is preferred. To install a towel bar without drilling, first determine the proper towel bar height and mark the holes for mounting. Next, instead of drilling holes, use a strong adhesive or double-sided mounting tape.