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When designing your bathroom, choosing the right heating source is crucial for comfort and functionality. A well thought out heating solution can transform your bathroom into a stylish and cosy sanctuary.

Today, heated towel rails are a modern option for keeping both you, your towels and your bathroom warm. These modern fixtures provide not only warmth but also add a touch of luxury and style to your space.

Here, we’ll delve into the world of heated towel rails, providing you with everything you need to know to ensure you make the right choice for you and your space.

What is a heated towel rail?

First of all, what exactly is a heated towel rail? Simply put, a heated towel rail is a bathroom alternative to a radiator, designed with bars to hang and warm towels.

Although commonly used within a bathroom environment, a heated towel rail is versatile and can be used in many rooms throughout the home, such as a kitchen or utility room.

Wherever you choose to place it, there are three main types of towel rails available for use in your home.

Types of towel rails

Central heating towel rail

Central heating towel rails are connected to your home’s central heating system. They operate similarly to standard radiators and rely on the boiler to heat the water that circulates through the towel rail. A central heating towel rail is primarily useful during seasons when your central heating system is on and will provide consistent and even heat distribution.

Electric only towel rail

Electric only towel rails are independent units that operate using electricity. They have an internal heating element and are plugged into the mains electrical supply. This type of towel rail is a great option for the likes of a second bathroom, or even a conservatory, as it removes the hassle of installing new pipes.

Dual fuel towel rail

Giving you the best of both worlds, a dual fuel towel rail combines features of both central heating and electric towel rails. A heating element can be added to your current towel rail which will allow it to be heated by the central heating system in the winter and by an electric element in the summer, when your main central heating system may be turned off. Dual fuel rails are flexible and convenient for year-round use and are often used in the likes of the bathroom where it’s favourable to have a higher temperature.

What size of towel rail do I need?

Before getting your heart set on your favourite towel rail, you first need to consider what size you require for your chosen room. This will depend on the space and heat output required.

The British Thermal Unit (BTU) measures the heat needed to increase the temperature of your room. A higher BTU indicates greater heat output, while a lower BTU indicates less. It's essential to choose a product with the correct BTU for your space; too high, and it will be too hot, too low, and it will be too cold.

To calculate the size of heated towel rail you need, measure the dimensions of your room and enter them into our helpful BTU calculator. This will provide you with your heating requirements in BTUs.

Our towel rails range from as little as 300mm in width to 600mm, and from a height of 700mm to 1800mm. The BTU of each towel rail is listed in the specifications on their individual product page.

Where is the best place to hang my towel rail?

In most modern homes you can install a towel rail on practically any wall you like, however, the most sensible thing to do it to install it on the coldest wall of the room. This is often the external wall of the room, so if possible, install your new towel rail on the same wall as the window or any other available external wall.

This will allow heat to be distributed throughout the room effectively and efficiently, guaranteeing your space to be warm and cosy.

Styles of towel rails

There is a common misconception that heated towel rails only suit contemporary bathrooms. While contemporary towel rails fit seamlessly into any modern bathroom, featuring multiple rungs for hanging towels and coming in a variety of finishes, there are also options available to suit more traditional settings.

Traditional towel rails

If you have a traditional bathroom style, you might prefer a traditional style heated towel rail. These mimic the look of old-fashioned radiators, portraying a more traditional bathroom design. They often have a high heat output, whilst the top bar provides space to hang your towel.

Curved towel rails

A curved towel rail is simply what it says. Featuring curved horizontal bars which allow slightly more room for towel storage, they are available in a variety of sizes, styles and finishes to suit your space.

Straight towel rails

The straight towel rail is the most common style of towel rail and can also be known as a ladder heated towel rail. This type of towel rail is widely available, offering a vast number of sizes, colours and finishes to suit your room. Due to their simple style, they are becoming increasingly popular not just for use in the bathroom but throughout the home.

Designer towel rails

Designer towel rails offer both functional benefits and a high level of aesthetic appeal to any room. From minimalist, ladder-style designs to more intricate and geometric patterns, designer towel rails can be found in a range of shapes that can add a touch of sophistication to the space, making them a luxurious yet practical choice for modern homes.

Colours and finishes

There is a wide range of colours and finishes available across our range of heated towel rails, meaning there will be something to suit your style creating a personal touch in your chosen room. Each option is crafted to ensure your space remains invitingly warm and stylish.

Towel rail colours

• Anthracite – A deep dark tone of grey with a slight mix of a metallic sheen and matt finish, anthracite is the closest colour to black from all the shades of grey. This colour is becoming increasingly popular throughout the home and can add a dramatic hue to your space.
• Brushed brass – With a light, textured appearance, brushed brass has a muted gold-brown finish instead of the yellow tones of natural or polished brass. It’s fast becoming the choice for both modern and traditional settings and can be paired with many brushed brass accessories to make your room pop.
• Chrome – While more of a finish than a colour, chrome towel rails are massively popular all over the country as they easily match other common fixtures and fittings found in the home such as taps and showers.
• Gunmetal Grey– A dark, muted shade of grey that blends blue, grey and black for a sleek, sophisticated look.
• Matt black – Matt black is a deep, non-reflective shade of black sure to make a striking addition to your home.
• White – A classic white towel rail can provide a fresh, clean look in your bathroom and will sit effortlessly alongside any white bathroom suite.

Towel rail finishes

• Polished – A mirrored finish giving a clean, shiny look.
• Satin – Also known as a brushed finish, a satin towel rail has a more subdued appearance compared to chrome.

Don’t forget your valves

Radiator valves are required for every plumbed radiator or towel rail in the home and are sold separately, so be sure to include them in your budget when purchasing your new towel rail. Valves regulate the amount of water entering the towel rail from your central heating system, affecting its performance. You will need two valves, which are essential for proper operation. For more in-depth information on the types of valves we offer and which ones you’ll need for your towel rail – view our Valves buying guide.

Towel rail accessories you may require

• Heating elements - Enable the conversion of existing towel rails into electric or dual-fuel rails, allowing you to heat your radiator without using the central heating. Dual-fuel rails offer the flexibility to switch between central heating and electricity.
• Rail hangers or robe hooks – A hanger or hook can give you more hanging space for your towels, or alternatively allow you to hang your robe so it’s nice and toasty for you stepping out of the shower.

How to clean a heated towel rail

Heated towel rails are most commonly installed in busy areas, such as the bathroom, kitchen or utility room, meaning they can be quick to accumulate dust and grime. Follow these simple steps to keep your towel rail looking its best.

1. First, ensure the towel rail is turned off and cooled down completely to prevent burning.
2. Wear rubber gloves and soak a non-abrasive cloth or sponge in warm soapy water to then wipe down the towel rail.
3. Use a dry microfibre cloth to wipe away any remaining water.
4. For chrome towel rails, wipe down regularly with a damp cloth then buff with a dry microfibre cloth. If there are any water marks remaining, then use a soapy water solution to clean.

Buying a towel rail from Designer Heating

Whether you choose an electric heated towel rail, central heating towel rail or dual fuel towel rail, you’ll find the perfect quality one at Designer Heating. With fast delivery and competitive prices, we have towel rails to suit any space in your home, regardless of size and style. Get ready to step into a world of comfort and warmth with your new heated towel rail.

Heated Towel Rail FAQs

1. Where should I install a heated towel rail?
   Factors to consider when choosing where to install your heated towel rail include: the shape of the room, the space available, your existing pipework, doors and existing bathroom fittings and the size of the appliance required. Importantly it should be placed somewhere for convenience, ease of use and how it looks in relation to the rest of the room.
2. Can a heated towel rail heat my bathroom?
   Yes, in smaller bathrooms, a heated towel rail can provide adequate heating. In larger bathrooms, it may supplement other heating sources. In most cases, a towel rail will put out less heat than a similar sized radiator, therefore if a high heat output is required a radiator may be a better option.
3. Does heat output differ depending on colour and finish?
   Our white heated towel rails offer a higher heat output than our chrome range. This is because chrome acts as an insulator, absorbing some heat before it reaches the surface. In contrast, our white enamel towel rails do not contain chrome, making them significantly hotter and a practical choice for extra cold bathrooms.