Where to Put Towel Bar in Bathroom: Best Places to Hang and Install Bathroom Towel Bars

When it comes to bathroom design, the placement of towel bars is a detail that’s often overlooked, but the right placement can make a big difference.

When towel bars are too far from the shower, you end up dripping water across the floor. But if they are too close, your towels never dry properly.

So, when towel bars are positioned correctly, everything flows better. Your space looks organized, and towels dry faster. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best places to hang towel bars in your bathroom and the ideal height for installation, so you can create a setup that’s both stylish and practical.

What Is the Standard Towel Bar Height in a Bathroom?

For towel bars, the general rule is to place a full-size towel bar 40 to 48 inches above the floor. This height keeps bath towels accessible while giving them enough space to hang and dry properly.

For hand towels, mount the ring or bar slightly higher, around 50 to 52 inches from the floor. This position aligns nicely with standard sink heights and makes the towel easy to grab after washing your hands.

If you are adding hooks for robes or extra-long towels, aim for 70 to 72 inches above the floor. This keeps longer items off the ground while maintaining a clean vertical rhythm throughout the space.

Families with young children can adjust the lower end of these ranges for easy reach. The ultimate goal is comfort and practicality.

Where to Place Towel Bars in Bathroom — Top Ideas for Every Space

Once you know the basics of height, the next question is where to place towel bars for both function and beauty. Here are the most effective placement ideas for every type of space.

• Beside the Bathtub

Placing a towel bar next to the bathtub is one of the most practical and natural choices. It keeps your towel within easy reach the moment you step out and helps prevent water from dripping onto the floor.

Mount the bar along the wall parallel to the tub rim. If you have a freestanding tub in the center of the room, use a nearby wall or column to hold the bar.

For smaller bathrooms or built-in tubs, the end panel of the tub deck is a smart option. It keeps towels close without adding clutter. 

Instead of placing it at a random height, try to line up the towel bar height with other elements, like the vanity top or a tile border, so the whole space feels more balanced.

If the bathroom is shared, consider installing a second bar on the opposite wall or stacking two shorter ones vertically. That way, everyone can have their own towel within easy reach.

• On the Bathroom Wall Near the Vanity

The wall beside your sink is the perfect place for a hand towel. Aim to install it about 20 inches from the edge of the vanity for comfortable access.

If you have a double vanity, add one towel ring or short bar on each side to keep the layout balanced and functional. 

For smaller or modern bathrooms, the side of a floating vanity or a narrow wall beside the mirror can be great alternatives. These options save wall space while keeping towels neatly framed within the vanity area.

• Behind the Bathroom Door

If your bathroom feels short on space, consider adding a towel bar behind the door. It keeps towels out of sight but still within easy reach. A single wide bar can hold two large bath towels without using up the valuable wall space.

For an even cleaner setup, choose a towel bar with soft door bumpers or an adhesive mount. That way, you won’t need to drill holes or worry about marks when the door opens and closes. It’s a small upgrade that can keep your bathroom tidy and your door looking fresh.

• On a Half Wall or Beside a Partition

If you’ve got a half wall or a shower partition, don’t overlook it. It can be a perfect spot for a towel bar.

If your partition is tiled, pick a metal finish that blends in for a clean look. Or, if you want to add some extra charm, go for brushed brass or matte black as they bring a little contrast and warmth. The idea is to make the towel bar feel like part of the design, not just an add-on.

You can also get creative by adding a small ledge or shelf above the bar. Rolled towels or a few simple accents can give the area a spa-like touch while adding extra storage.

• Inside the Shower (if space allows)

For larger shower enclosures, installing a towel bar inside can make your routine more luxurious. Place it on the dry side of the wall, away from the showerhead, so your towel stays fresh. This setup works especially well in walk-in showers with rainfall or overhead fixtures that do not splash far.

In small or humid bathrooms, you can still keep towels close by installing the bar just outside the shower door. It provides convenience without trapping moisture.

Find the Perfect Towel Bar for Your Bathroom at KnobDepot

By now, you know exactly where to install towel bar in bathroom spaces. The next step is choosing the right hardware that matches your vision. This is where KnobDepot makes your job easier.

Since 2003, KnobDepot has been a trusted source for homeowners, designers, and remodelers seeking quality hardware at affordable prices. With more than 15,000 products available, you can find towel bars, hooks, and cabinet hardware that balance quality with style. 

What sets KnobDepot apart is its commitment to customer satisfaction. You get trusted brand names and clear support at every step. With free shipping on qualifying orders and simple returns, transforming your bathroom becomes smooth and stress-free.

Conclusion

Good bathroom design comes down to the small details. Knowing where to hang bathroom towel bars might seem minor, but it can completely change how your space looks and feels. 

Next to the bathtub, your towel is always within reach. Near the vanity, hand towels stay neat. Behind the door, you free up space. On a half wall or partition, you add a clever design touch. Even inside the shower, thoughtful placement brings extra convenience.

Get your towel bars from a trusted brand like KnobDepot, and enjoy a bathroom that looks polished and works effortlessly every day.