How to Install a Towel Bar in 5 Easy Steps
A towel bar is a bathroom essential, keeping towels dry, organized, and within reach while preventing mold and clutter. Installing one yourself is a quick, budget-friendly way to upgrade your bathroom’s functionality and style. Whether you’re a DIY beginner or a seasoned pro, this guide breaks down the process into five easy steps. With the right tools and a quality towel bar, you’ll have a tidy bathroom in no time. Follow our steps and shop our top picks to get started!
Why Install a Towel Bar?
Wet towels left on the floor or crumpled on hooks can breed mold and mildew. A towel bar ensures proper drying, extends towel life, and adds a sleek, polished look to your bathroom. Plus, installing one yourself saves on labor costs and takes under an hour. Let’s dive into the simple process.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Towel Bar: We recommend the Moen Greenfield 24-Inch Towel Bar (available on Amazon) for its rust-resistant brushed nickel finish.
Drill: A DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill is reliable for precise holes.
Screwdriver: Try a CRAFTSMAN Phillips Screwdriver Set for secure fastening.
Level: The Klein Tools 9-Inch Torpedo Level ensures a straight installation.
Tape Measure: A Stanley 25-Foot Tape Measure is perfect for accurate measurements.
Stud Finder: Use a Franklin Sensors ProSensor Stud Finder to locate studs.
Wall Anchors: E-Z Ancor Drywall Anchors are great for non-stud installations.
Optional Cleaning Tool: Wipe surfaces with a Zwipes Microfiber Cleaning Cloth for a spotless finish.
5 Easy Steps to Install a Towel Bar
Follow these steps to install your towel bar like a pro:
Step 1: Choose the Perfect Location
Select a spot near the shower or sink for easy access, ideally 48–52 inches from the floor for adults or lower for kids. Ensure the area is free of pipes or electrical wiring using a stud finder like the Franklin Sensors ProSensor.
Pro Tip: Mark the spot with a pencil and check for studs to ensure a secure mount.
Step 2: Measure and Mark
Use a Stanley 25-Foot Tape Measure to measure the distance between the towel bar’s mounting brackets (usually 18–24 inches). Hold the bar against the wall and mark the bracket holes with a pencil. Use a Klein Tools Torpedo Level to ensure the marks are even.
Pro Tip: Double-check measurements to avoid crooked installation.
Step 3: Drill Pilot Holes
Attach a drill bit (size specified in the towel bar’s instructions, typically 1/8–1/4 inch) to your DEWALT Cordless Drill. Drill pilot holes at the marked spots. If you hit a stud, no anchors are needed. If not, insert E-Z Ancor Drywall Anchors into the holes for stability.
Pro Tip: Drill slowly to avoid damaging drywall or tiles.
Step 4: Mount the Brackets
Secure the towel bar’s mounting brackets to the wall using screws and a CRAFTSMAN Phillips Screwdriver. If using anchors, ensure they’re flush with the wall before screwing. Attach the brackets firmly but avoid overtightening to prevent damage.
Pro Tip: Check alignment with a level before fully tightening screws.
Step 5: Attach the Towel Bar and Clean Up
Snap or screw the towel bar onto the mounted brackets, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Wipe down the bar and surrounding area with a Zwipes Microfiber Cleaning Cloth to remove dust or fingerprints. Hang a towel and admire your work!
Pro Tip: Pair with a Broan-NuTone Sensonic Exhaust Fan to keep towels dry and mold-free.
Why a Towel Bar Is Worth It
A towel bar like the Moen Greenfield or Delta Trinsic 24-Inch Towel Bar adds style and function, preventing damp towels from breeding mold. This DIY project is affordable, quick, and elevates your bathroom’s organization.
Bonus Tips for a Tidy, Mold-Free Bathroom
Hang Towels Properly: Spread towels fully on the bar to dry quickly.
Squeegee After Showers: Use an OXO Good Grips Squeegee to reduce moisture on nearby surfaces.
Organize Accessories: Store cleaning tools in a simplehuman Wall Mount Organizer for a clutter-free look.
Shop Smarter for a Stylish Bathroom
Ready to install your towel bar? Browse our top picks for towel bars, tools, and bathroom accessories on Amazon, Modern Bathroom, or TheBathOutlet to create a tidy, mold-free bathroom!