Where should towels be stored in a bathroom?

Where to store towels in a bathroom is an important consideration when organizing and designing this space. Proper towel storage can make the bathroom feel tidy and well-put-together while also keeping towels clean, dry and easily accessible. There are many factors to think about when determining the best places for towel storage in a bathroom.

Should Towels be Stored in the Linen Closet?

One option for towel storage is in the bathroom linen closet. Linen closets provide enclosed storage which can help protect towels from moisture, dirt and other contaminants commonly found in bathrooms. Storing towels in a linen closet also frees up space around the sink and shower area to avoid a cluttered look.

However, there are some downsides to storing all towels in a linen closet. Accessing towels becomes less convenient as family members need to open the closet every time they need a towel. Linen closet storage is better suited for extras such as backup towel sets and off-season or decorative towels not used daily. Daily use towels are better stored in more accessible areas.

Hanging Towel Storage

Hanging towel bars are another go-to storage option in many bathrooms. Mounted towel bars provide easy access to towels and allow them to air dry quickly after use. Popular places to install towel bars include:

– Above or near the toilet
– On the wall near bath/shower
– On the back of the bathroom door

Proper mounting height for towel bars is generally 48-54 inches above the floor. Make sure there is enough clearance so towels do not drag on the floor or interfere with other bathroom fixtures and accessories. Towel bars come in a variety of sizes, finishes and styles to complement any bathroom’s décor.

Consider placing towel bars in multiple zones around the bathroom for convenience. Having towels within arm’s reach of the shower, bath and sink areas eliminates dripping across the bathroom to fetch a towel.

Wall-Mounted Towel Racks

Wall-mounted towel racks or towel ladders provide similar easy access to towels as traditional towel bars. However, towel racks add a little more storage capacity, typically holding 2-3 towels per rack. Like towel bars, wall-mounted towel racks can be placed wherever towels are needed most. Racks mounted above the toilet are handy for quick access before and after use. Towel racks come in an array of shapes, sizes and material options including metal, wood, plastic and woven racks.

Freestanding Towel Racks

Freestanding towel racks provide flexible towel storage that can be moved around as needed. Options like tower racks, rolling racks, and fold-out butler racks give you movable storage with a smaller footprint than wall-mounted racks and bars. Just be sure freestanding racks are sturdy and well-balanced when loaded with towels.

Place rolling racks in the corner, near the shower or beside vanities for easy access. Fold-out butler racks are perfect for tucking discreetly behind doors when not in use.

Under the Sink Towel Storage

The space under bathroom sinks is prime real estate for neatly tucking away towels. Install shelf dividers, stacked drawers or freestanding racks under the sink to hold hand towels, washcloths and smaller bath towels. This keeps them within quick reach when washing hands, brushing teeth or completing other tasks at the vanity. Just be mindful that the area under sinks can be prone to moisture damage. Proper ventilation is key for this location.

Table 1. Comparison of Bathroom Towel Storage Options

Storage Type	Pros	Cons
Linen Closet	Enclosed storage protects from moisture and dirt	Less convenient access
Hanging Towel Bars	Convenient access, allow towels to dry quickly	Can clutter look if used excessively
Wall-Mounted Towel Racks	Easy access, hold a few more towels than bars	Protrude from wall taking up space
Freestanding Towel Racks	Flexible, movable storage	Take up floor space, be sure sturdy
Under Sink Storage	Convenient access when at sink	Prone to moisture damage

Bathroom Design and Layout

The best towel storage solutions depend partly on your bathroom’s size and layout. Here are some bathroom design considerations when planning storage:

– In small baths, look for vertical storage like wall-mounted racks and hanging bars to maximize space. Freestanding options can make a narrow bathroom feel cramped.

– Consider moisture levels around sinks, tubs and showers when choosing storage materials. Prolonged exposure to moisture can damage some materials like wood or bamboo.

– Don’t overload small half baths. Focus on essentials like hand towels at the sink. Extras can be stored elsewhere.

– For Jack-and-Jill bathrooms accessed via two different bedrooms, have towel storage convenient to both sides so inhabitants don’t have to cross through another’s space.

– In bathroom suites with separate vanity areas, keep towels near each sink for individual use. Share extras in a central linen closet.

Bathroom Storage Solutions by Style

The style of your bathroom can impact what type of storage complements the space best. Here are some towel storage solutions that work well for various bath decor styles:

Contemporary Bathrooms:

Stainless steel, chrome or sleek glass towel bars, racks and shelves

Mounted shelving in on-trend wood tones

Freestanding racks in modern shapes and materials

Traditional Bathrooms:

Ornate brass, nickel or antique rubbed bronze racks and bars

Built-in cabinetry and linen closets

Wicker baskets or fabric storage bins in white, ivory or soft hues

Rustic/Farmhouse Bathrooms:

Woven rattan racks

Galvanized metal racks and bins

Wooden ladder racks

Floating wood shelves

Spa Bathrooms:

Glass shelves lit from beneath

Metal mesh basket racks

Luxury hooks and bars like crystal, marble or agate

Choosing the Right Towel Bar or Rack

With so many sizes, materials and styles of towel bars and racks available, choosing the right options comes down to both functionality and visual appeal. Follow these tips when selecting the best bars and racks:

– Measure your space first to ensure the rack/bar dimensions allow clearance. Account for door swings and existing fixtures.

– Match the style to your bathroom’s decor. See what design elements are already prominent such as metals, finishes and color palettes.

– Look for moisture-resistant materials if installing near showers or baths. Avoid wood/bamboo if very humid.

– Prioritize function. Select sizes, shapes and capacity to suit your needs and quantities. Include bars and racks in multiple areas for convenience.

– Ensure bars and racks are securely and properly mounted into studs or blocking. Follow all weight limits and anti-tip hardware requirements.

Keep Towels Organized

No matter where towels are stored in the bathroom, organization is key to making the most of the space. Here are some tips for keeping towels tidy:

– Fold towels neatly and stack evenly on shelves or in baskets.

– Use coordinating bins, baskets or trays to contain smaller items like hand towels and washcloths.

– Designate areas for each family member’s towels if space allows.

– Store off-season or overflow towels elsewhere like the linen closet to reduce bathroom clutter.

– Add dividers, shelves or hanging multi-level racks to avoid a piled mess of towels.

– Install hooks on the back of doors to hang hand towels for quick access and visual appeal.

Laundry Routines

Proper laundering is also essential for maintaining fresh, clean towels between uses. Here are some recommended practices:

– Wash bath towels after 3 uses or more frequently if heavily soiled. Washcloths and hand towels may need washing after 1-2 uses.

– Use the warmest appropriate water setting and add bleach or disinfectant to kill bacteria.

– Add white vinegar to the rinse cycle to remove odors left behind from fabric softener.

– For drying, medium or high heat is ideal to remove moisture and prevent mildew growth.

– Replace threadbare, tattered towels that resist getting fully clean.

Conclusion

Finding the right towel storage solutions comes down to choosing options that are convenient, maximize space, complement your bathroom decor and keep towels clean and dry. With so many styles to select from like mounted bars and racks, freestanding racks, under sink shelves and more – you can certainly find options that perfectly suit your space and needs. Proper layout along with neat organization and laundry habits will help keep your bathroom towels tidy and easily accessible while adding an overall put-together feel to your bath.