When designing a small bathroom, every inch of space counts. This includes finding the optimal spot for essential items like your towel rack. The towel rack is an important functional and decorative element that impacts your daily routine. Putting it in the wrong spot can make your bathroom feel cluttered and cramped. Follow these tips to determine the best location for your towel rack in a small bathroom.
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Mount it close to the shower or bathtub
The number one rule is to install the towel rack within arm’s reach of the shower or bathtub. You want to be able to easily grab a towel when you get out of the bath or shower. Mounting it right next to the shower enclosure or tub provides the most convenient access. This allows you to quickly wrap yourself in a towel without dripping water everywhere or leaving the warmth of the bathroom. It also minimizes the need for a bath mat on the floor.
If your shower area is cramped, consider a corner-mounted towel rack. The triangular shape fits nicely into tight spaces. Corner mounting still provides easy access from the shower. Just be sure to measure first to ensure there is enough clearance to comfortably remove towels. Wall-mounted racks with fold-down arms also work well in corner spots. When not in use, the arm can fold against the wall to save space.
Pay attention to door swings
Another key factor is the swing of your bathroom door. You don’t want the door hitting or rubbing against the towel rack when opened. Measure to make sure there is enough clearance for the door to fully open without obstruction. Having to squeeze through the doorway or bumping into the rack is annoying.
If the only viable spot is right behind a door, opt for a model that folds flat against the wall. You can then flip it out of the way when using the door. Rotating towel racks or those with adjustable arms also minimize door conflicts. Just make sure it can be securely positioned flat against the wall when the door needs to swing past.
Consider traffic flow
Bathroom layout and traffic flow patterns should guide your towel rack placement. You want to avoid cramming it into a high traffic zone. Position it out of the main circulation route, like along the side or back wall. This prevents people from bumping their elbows or hips on the rack constantly.
Don’t block access to key areas like the toilet or sinks. Allow enough space to easily walk past without contorting your body. Frequently reached areas like drawers and cabinets should also remain accessible without the towel rack interfering.
Height and proximity to other fixtures
Standard installation height for single towel racks is about 48 inches above the floor. This puts towels within easy reach for most adults. For kids’ baths, lowering it to 36-42 inches is ideal.
When mounting above toilets, allow at least 2 inches clearance from the top of the tank. You want some breathing room so the rack doesn’t crowd the toilet. It’s also best to keep towel racks at least 6 inches away from other bathroom fixtures. This helps prevent that cramped feeling and allows for easier cleaning.
Consider the type of towel rack
The style of towel rack you choose can make placement easier in a small space. Here are some types that maximize storage and access in tight bathrooms:
- Over the door towel racks free up wall space. Just ensure the door is clear enough to open and close without catching.
- Wall-mounted racks with arms that fold flat or rotate help save space.
- Corner triangle racks optimize use of vacant corner areas.
- Floating shelves with integrated towel bars fit nicely on the wall beside sinks.
- Back of the door towel racks utilize unused door space.
- Towel hooks on the back of cabinet doors are handy when wall space is limited.
- Ladder-style racks mounted vertically maximize height. Just leave enough clearance to grab towels.
Avoid freestanding towel racks, which take up valuable floor space. Also limit yourself to one or two racks. Too many towel bars in a small bathroom crowds the space.
Strategic spots to consider
Here are some prime locations to consider when determining where to install your towel rack in a small bathroom:
Beside the sink
Mounting a towel rack near the sink is convenient after washing your hands or face. Try mounting a floating shelf with integrated rack above or beside the vanity. Or opt for a space-saving corner rack if there’s room. Just don’t crowd your head space or block the mirror.
On the wall opposite the shower or tub
For a narrow bathroom, placing it on the wall directly across from the shower or tub provides quick access. Avoid mounting it right above the toilet opposite the bathing area. Getting hit by wet towels isn’t fun.
On pocket doors
Take advantage of often underutilized pocket door space. Options like corner racks, vertical racks, or back-of-door racks work well. Just be sure to reinforce mounting into the hollow door interior.
Next to the toilet
This can be an ideal spot if space directly outside the tub is limited. Opt for corner-mounted racks or vertical racks to save space. Keep it at least a few inches from the toilet tank and away from toilet paper holders.
Inside the shower
For very cramped bathrooms, installing a rack with suction cups or adhesive inside the shower stall frees up wall space. Get one with rust resistant metal construction.
Towel rack ideas for popular bathroom layouts
The best spot for your towel rack depends on the configuration of your bathroom. Here are some layout-specific placement ideas:
Single sink
For single sink bathrooms, first try mounting horizontally on the wall beside the sink. Otherwise mount vertically next to shower or on wall across from bathing area.
Double sink
In double sink bathrooms, utilize the wall between the sinks for vertical-style racks. This saves vanity top space taken up by traditional horizontal racks. Corner racks where two walls meet are also great space savers.
Sink, toilet, shower combo
With all three fixtures sharing the same space, look for any leftover wall space outside main traffic routes. Corner racks tucked out of the flow work well. A rack on the wall next to the toilet is handy. Just watch toilet paper holder clearance.
Full bathtub with shower
For full bathtubs combined with showers, target the narrow wall next to the tub enclosure. Vertical racks or corner racks optimize the tight space. Avoid mounting horizontally right above the tub edge.
Tips for mounting
Proper mounting ensures your towel rack stays securely and safely in place. Here are some key installation tips:
- Use wall anchors and mounting screws designed for bathrooms. Look for corrosion-resistant metal like brass.
- Install directly into wall studs whenever possible for maximum strength.
- Use hollow wall anchors like toggle bolts if installing into drywall without studs.
- Use plastic wall anchors for tile walls to avoid cracking grout or tile.
- Ensure mounting holes do not align with pipes or wiring inside walls.
- Follow manufacturer instructions for recommended mounting height and hardware.
- Make sure rack is level and securely fastened before use.
Conclusion
Strategically placing your towel rack is important for both function and aesthetics in small bathrooms. Prioritize accessibility from the tub and shower, avoid door conflicts, and optimize traffic flow. Corner-mounted, vertical, or folding racks maximize use of available space. Just remember to always mount securely into studs or with anchors suitable for damp areas. With smart towel rack placement, even the smallest bathrooms can provide convenience without feeling cluttered.