How to Install a Towel Bar

A towel bar that pulls out of the wall after a few months is almost always an anchoring problem, not a product problem. Here's how to mount one so it stays put.

1. Decide on Height and Spacing

A standard towel bar mounts 42 to 48 inches from the floor, and should sit at least 12 inches away from the wall corner or any adjacent fixture so towels can hang without bunching.

2. Find a Stud, or Plan for Anchors

The strongest install goes directly into a wall stud. Use a stud finder to locate one within your planned mounting area. If a stud doesn't line up, use heavy-duty toggle or molly anchors rated for the towel bar's weight — standard plastic anchors are usually not strong enough for a full, wet towel pulling on the bar.

3. Mark and Level the Mounting Plate

Most towel bars use a two-piece mounting plate system. Hold the plate against the wall, use a level to confirm it's straight, and mark your screw holes with a pencil.

4. Drill and Anchor

Drill pilot holes at your marks. If you're using anchors, tap them into place before driving the mounting screws in.

5. Attach the Bar

Secure the mounting plates first, then snap or slide the bar itself into place according to your specific model's hardware.

What to Check Before You Buy

• Confirm the bar length fits your available wall space with clearance on both sides
• Check whether the finish matches your other bathroom hardware — see our guide to bathroom faucet finishes for common finish pairings
• Look at the included mounting hardware — solid brass and stainless steel bars often come with sturdier anchors

Browse our bathroom accessories collection for towel bars and matching hardware. Want warm towels too? Our towel warmer buying guide compares wall-mounted and floor-mounted styles, hardwired vs. plug-in installation, and bar counts.