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There’s nothing like wrapping up in a warm towel after a shower, and a towel warmer (also known as a towel heater) is the perfect way to build in some at-home pampering. To help you weed through the numerous options available, we tested some of the most popular towel warmers available.
Our recommendations for the best towel warmers consider design, size, setup, value, heating power, power source, and additional features. During a month of testing, we put the following towel warmers to the test; here are all of our top picks for towel warmers.
- BEST OVERALL: Keenray Bucket Towel Warmer
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Mibihibi Personal Towel Steamer and Warmer
- BEST BUCKET: Zadro Large Towel Warmer Bucket
- BEST RACK: Odass Towel Warmer – Wave I
- BEST FREESTANDING: Keg Towel Warmer
- BEST LARGE: Heatgene 12 Curved Bar Hardwired/Plug-In Towel Warmer
- BEST COMPACT RACK: Amba Radiant Small 7 Bar Towel Warmer
- BEST COMPACT BUCKET: Sharper Image Towel Warmer
- BEST FOR GIFTING: Live Fine Towel Warmer
How We Tested the Best Towel Warmers
Before diving into our tests, we reached out to an expert for their advice. We spoke with master electrician Christopher Haas, owner of a family electrician business in Pasadena, Maryland, Haas & Sons Electric, boasting over two decades of experience in the industry. His main advice is that “electric towel warmers need to be GFCI-protected,” so we took this in mind when selecting our top picks. He also says that shoppers should “be mindful of how much power the towel warmer consumes. Some are as low as 100 watts while others we have seen are 800 watts. That doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll need a dedicated circuit to prevent overloading your circuitry. We recommend consulting with your local electrician if the warmer uses 500 or more watts.” With all of this on our radar, we got our hands on the best towel warmers to see how they fared with our testing team.
To test the best towel warmers, we began by choosing popular models in different categories. We included options for various setups, including wall-mounted, floor buckets, and freestanding models.
Upon receiving the warmers, we observed the quality, weight, and durability of each, recording our first impressions into our testing rubric. To test the sturdiness of each, we knocked into the floor units while passing to see whether they tipped over or stood up to a bit of wear and tear.
To start testing the warmers, we assembled each according to the manufacturer’s directions and noted how many towels each could hold. We added the recommended number of standard or oversize bath towels and powered it on before taking a shower, noting whether it was warm when we were out or if it needed more time.
For those with different timing options, we tried warming our towels at various intervals, observing the increase in warmth. We folded the towels differently and added fewer towels to see if it affected the functionality. Finally, we felt the unit to see how hot it got and noted any safety considerations.
Our Top Picks
The models featured below are among the best towel warmers in a variety of designs and sizes to suit different needs. Read on to find out how these popular options stood up to our rigorous testing. For reference, we define oversize bath towels (also known as bath sheets) as towels that range in size from 60 to 70 inches long by 35 to 40 inches wide; we define standard bath towels as those that measure between 52 to 58 inches long by 27 to 30 inches wide.
Best Overall
Keenray Bucket Towel Warmer
Product Specs
- Type: Electric
- Style: Bucket
- Capacity: 2 oversize bath towels
Pros
- Heats up by the time the user is out of the shower
- Offers 60 minutes of heating time with an automatic shutoff
- The sleek design is available in 6 colors with faux-wood accents
- Unit comes with an aromatherapy tray to add essential oils
Cons
- The unit has a mild plastic or chemical smell that did not dissipate after multiple uses
- Cost for this bucket warmer is on the higher side
The extra-large 20-liter bucket holds up to two 70-inch-long by 40-inch-wide bath towels at once, with room for some extras like socks or mittens. During our testing, we found this unit the fastest and most efficient at warming our towels, heating up in just 6 minutes. We popped our towel in before showering and loved that it was toasty by the time we finished.
Once turned on, the unit offers up to 60 minutes of heating time before it shuts off automatically. We left the towels in for the entire running time, and they were nice and warm for use, but there wasn’t much of a difference in temperature between leaving it for 15 minutes or 50.
The unit gets warm while heating up, but a red indicator light alerts users to the hot surface. However, we didn’t find the exterior temperature worrisome. One drawback is that we noticed a mild chemical smell after taking the cover off, which didn’t seem to dissipate after multiple uses.
Beyond its stellar performance, the bucket-style warmer also looks stylish and modern. We love that it comes in a few color options, while the sleek bucket shape and attractive faux-wood handle give it a simple and warm aesthetic that will suit most bathrooms.
Get the Keenray towel warmer at Amazon or Keenray.
Best Bang for the Buck
Mibihibi Personal Towel Steamer and Warmer
Product Specs
- Type: Electric
- Style: Bucket
- Capacity: 10 standard (12-inch square) washcloths
Pros
- Damp towels heat up very quickly to high temperatures
- The compact design makes it suitable for countertop use
- An auto-off timer shuts the unit off after 60 minutes
Cons
- Not suitable for warming bath-size towels or larger items
- Towels get very hot and need time to cool before handling
- Makes a ticking sound while counting down the time
For those who are fond of a hot, damp towel after a shave or enjoy the feel of a warm washcloth after an at-home facial, the Mibihibi personal towel steamer and warmer is a great option. Users could even host friends for a spa night since the unit holds multiple washcloths. The company says it can hold 15, but we found that number to be a bit high unless the towels are tiny.
After unboxing this warmer, we quickly assembled it by placing the towel cabinet on top of the heating system per the directions. Next, we added water to the max-fill line and dampened our towels. Finally, we plugged it in and waited the recommended 10 minutes for it to heat up. The towels got extremely hot—most likely too hot for many users. We recommend letting the towels sit to cool or using tongs.
This unit is compact, measuring only 10.7 inches long by 10.7 inches wide by 9.5 inches high, and weighs just 2.55 pounds, making it perfect for countertop use. Though it’s not big enough to heat bath towels and it only holds about 10 washcloths, it’s still an excellent product for a home pampering session.
This counter-size towel warmer has an auto-off timer for safety and shuts itself off after 60 minutes. One drawback is that the timer makes a ticking noise while counting down, which takes away from the spa-like atmosphere. It’s not overly attractive, but the compact white design will blend into most bathrooms.
Get the Mibihibi towel warmer at Amazon.
Best Bucket
Zadro Large Towel Warmer Bucket
Product Specs
- Type: Electric
- Style: Bucket
- Capacity: 2 oversize bath towels
Pros
- Easily fits 2 oversize towels with room for extras such as socks or mittens
- It has a built-in timer with 4 time settings and an automatic shutoff
- A sleek body and natural bamboo feet give the unit a luxurious look
Cons
- The price point is on the high side
We were impressed with the sleek look of the Zadro electric towel warmer out of the box. We tested it in gray, but it’s also available in white. The tall, narrow shape and faux bamboo wood feet and handle make it a perfect addition to modern-style bathrooms. It was also simple to use with zero assembly time.
The extra-large insulated bucket can hold two 70-inch-long by 40-inch-wide oversize bath towels and robes or blankets. There are options for heating in 15-, 30-, 45-, or 60-minute cycles before the unit automatically shuts off.
We started our testing by loading in two standard bath towels and found there was still extra room for socks and hand towels. (In fact, it would have fit two oversize towels and those extras, as well.) For the first run, we chose the 15-minute timer. Once it was finished, our towel was amply warm, but we preferred the heat level the second time around at 30 minutes.
We didn’t find a substantial change from the 30- to 60-minute cycles. The inside of this large towel warmer did get hotter after each cycle, but the exterior remained warm—not hot—to the touch. We suggest placing the towel loosely folded inside the container to avoid cold spots. There was some brief clicking later in the heating cycle but not every time we used it.
Get the Zadro towel warmer at Amazon, Target, Crate & Barrel, or Zadro.
Best Rack
Odass Towel Warmer – Wave I
Product Specs
- Type: Electric
- Style: Rack
- Capacity: 2 standard bath towels
Pros
- The unit’s stainless steel body is attractive and feels sturdy
- Dries towels to help avoid the buildup of mildew and mold
- 10 bars offer plenty of room for towels, pajamas, or robes
Cons
- Some users may prefer more heat for their bath towels
- Automatic shutoff is after 2 hours at a minimum
Out of the box, this model looked great and felt sturdy. Users can hardwire the unit for a seamless look, but we opted to test it plugged in. Installation parts and a user manual are included, and the directions are straightforward. The cord has a sufficient length to reach the outlet.
The stainless steel body has a built-in timer with LED indicators. Users can opt for 2 or 4 hours of heating time before automatic shutoff. The surface temperature of this towel warmer rack reaches about 86 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
During our testing, we hung one standard towel at the top of the unit and one midway down the bars. We tested it in 15-minute increments, according to the directions. After the first 15 minutes, the towel felt slightly warm. After 30 minutes, it was more to our liking, but we still would have liked a bit more heat. However, it dried our towels efficiently after a 2-hour cycle.
The unit is midsize compared to others on this list, measuring 33.88 inches long by 20.88 inches wide by 4.88 inches deep. The 10 bars are handy for warming or drying multiple smaller items such as clothing or hand towels. It is available in brushed nickel, chrome, and powder coated.
Get the Odass towel warmer at Amazon.
Best Freestanding
Keg Towel Warmer
Product Specs
- Type: Electric
- Style: Freestanding rack
- Capacity: 2 standard bath towels
Pros
- Unit is an affordable option among rack towel warmers
- Versatile, with options to use it freestanding or wall-mounted
- Spacious enough to heat 2 standard bath towels or a large robe
Cons
- The lightweight design will slide if knocked into during use
- The freestanding version is only available in a brushed silver color
Stabilizing feet keep the towel warmer upright but can be removed for those who prefer a hanging rack. The brushed aluminum body has a nice modern look and is super lightweight; we found it simple to unbox and move around. In testing, bumping into it made it slide out of place, but it didn’t tip over.
The 6-foot cord plugs into standard outlets but has limited reach. Once it’s plugged in, users can press the 2- or 4-hour buttons to dry towels. During testing, our damp towels were dry after 2 hours. It automatically shuts off after the selected time.
We set up the rack with one oversize towel during our testing and left it to heat for 15 minutes. Once the timer was up, the warmer itself felt hot to the touch and the towel felt warm. After 30 minutes, it didn’t feel much warmer. As with most rack warmers, we found the best result after wrapping the towel through multiple bars for maximum surface contact.
The standing unit is only available in silver, but Keg has similar wall-mounted models in various finishes. The Amazon product listing mentions that it comes with a free bath towel in the package, but we did not receive one.
Get the Keg towel warmer at Amazon.
Best Large
Heatgene 12 Curved Bar Hardwired/Plug-In Towel Warmer
Product Specs
- Type: Electric
- Style: Wall-mounted rack
- Capacity: 2 oversize towels or 2 bathrobes
Pros
- 12 stainless steel heated bars offer plenty of space for towels
- Mounting was straightforward using the included hardware and directions
- Durable construction gives this unit a solid look and feel
Cons
- Bath towels may not get hot enough for some users
This pick looked great out of the box and felt durable and weighty. We liked the brushed stainless steel design, which should coordinate with most bathroom designs.
The mounting was straightforward with the included hardware, and the unit felt sturdy on the wall. The Heatgene can also be hardwired for those who want a sleeker look.
The plug easily extended to our outlet with a coiled wire, which has a 6-foot reach. We didn’t love the look of the coil, but it worked well. The unit can hold two towels or a towel and bathrobes around the eight bars. We tried it with two bath towels, and the items were slightly warm after the recommended 15 minutes. After 30 minutes, the heat level was more to our liking, but still not hot. We wrapped the towels through the bars for more efficient heating. Even though they didn’t get very hot, the unit was effective at drying damp towels after use.
A waterproof safety cover on the switch ensures safe use, and the seamless welding of the bars provides a better bar-to-bar seal for a longer product life. This towel warmer was the largest we tested, measuring 40 inches long by 24 inches wide and weighing 13 pounds.
Get the Heatgene towel warmer at Amazon, Wayfair, or Heatgene.
Best Compact Rack
Amba Radiant Small 7 Bar Towel Warmer
Product Specs
- Type: Electric
- Style: Wall-mounted rack
- Capacity: 1 standard bath towel
Pros
- Available in 5 different finishes to suit modern bathrooms
- Compact design makes it ideal for small bathrooms and mudrooms
- Can be plugged in or hardwired depending on user preference
- Consumes minimal power; rated at 110 to 150 watts, similar to a few light bulbs
Cons
- Unit does not have an automatic shutoff option
- Some of the finishes come in at a high price point
- The wire to plug in the unit is only 5 feet long
From polished gold to matte black, this rack-style warmer is ideal for designer bathrooms. We chose the black, which looked great in person. We loved its modern and sleek appearance.
The compact size, measuring just 21.25 inches long by 20.38 inches wide by 4.75 inches deep, worked perfectly in our bathroom. We liked that it didn’t overwhelm the space yet provided ample room for one standard-size bath towel. The rungs are closer together than other models, making it a bit more challenging to wrap thick towels for more surface contact.
Our testing found that it heated up slightly after 15 minutes but was warmer after 30 with a max temp of 149 degrees Fahrenheit. It was warm, not hot, and worked great on smaller, thinner towels. This option is also perfect for drying out items like gloves and bathing suits. In testing, our kids’ swimsuits were dry in 1 hour.
Get the Amba towel warmer at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Wayfair.
Best Compact Bucket
Sharper Image Towel Warmer
Product Specs
- Type: Electric
- Style: Bucket
- Capacity: 2 standard bath towels
Pros
- Compact size makes it easy to integrate into smaller bathrooms
- Indicator light turns from red to green when the warming cycle is done
- An automatic shutoff turns the unit off after 50 minutes
Cons
- The design is not as stylish as other bucket-style warmers
This unit is more functional than stylish. It isn’t going to add a wow factor to a space, but it’s slim and neutral enough to blend in with any décor. The warmer was assembled out of the box and simple to use during testing, with an easy on/off button and a light that turns from red to green when the warming cycle is complete.
We left the towel in the unit for the duration of a shower and found it was warm but lost heat quickly while drying off. The next time, we popped it in 20 minutes before bathing, and it was plenty warm once the shower was complete, but not as hot as some other bucket warmers on this list.
The unit is compact (10.9 inches long by 14.4 inches wide by 11.9 inches high) yet spacious enough to fit two standard-size towels. Lightweight at just 6 pounds, it is easy to transport, but it stayed in place when we purposely knocked into it. It remained cool to the touch for heating, and after 50 minutes, the unit automatically shut off.
Get the Sharper Image towel warmer at Sharper Image.
Best for Gifting
Live Fine Towel Warmer
Product Specs
- Type: Electric
- Style: Bucket
- Capacity: 1 oversize bath towel or 2 standard bath towels
Pros
- The unit is compact and lightweight, making it ideal for gifting
- 15-, 30-, 45-, or 60-minute heating times to meet user preferences
- Designer look with a faux-wood handle and slightly ridged surface
Cons
- Limited capacity compared to the other bucket warmers on this list
- Unit made an occasional clicking sound during the warming cycle
With an attractive design and compact size, the Live Fine towel warmer features a 15-minute adjustable timer, with up to 60 minutes of heating time to meet different needs and preferences.
During our testing, it was simple to use thanks to its large LCD heating timer, but it didn’t quite fit two oversize towels as the manufacturer claims. However, the 10-liter bucket easily fits one oversize towel. We first tested out the 15-minute cycle, and the towel felt nice and warm. Extra time in the bucket didn’t make it significantly warmer. To fit two standard bath towels, we had to roll them up tight and push them down, which left some cold spots after heating. When one towel was loosely folded in the bucket, we didn’t have a problem with cold spots.
A faux-wood handle and slightly ridged design make this unit modern and attractive, and stabilizing feet keep it firmly in place. One drawback is that the warmer made the occasional clicking sound during heating. It didn’t seem to affect performance, but it was noticeable in a quiet room. Even so, with its attractive design and compact size, this little warmer would make a great gift for friends and family.
Get the Live Fine towel warmer at Amazonor Target.
ALSO TESTED
We also tested the Salon Sundry Professional Hot Towel Warmer Cabinet,but unfortunately, it didn’t meet our standards. During our testing, the door broke and fell off after only one use.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Towel Warmer
The best towel warmers not only offer luxury and comfort to our daily routine but can also help keep bath towels mildew-free. They come in an array of types and sizes, so shoppers will want to consider the features they’ll need before making this luxurious addition to their bathroom. The three general types of towel warmers available are bucket, cabinet, and rack models.
Many models are electric, although hydronic models heat up via hot water from the bathroom’s plumbing. When shoppers are choosing the best towel warmer for their needs, they’ll want to consider the style, size, capacity, material, setup, and additional features.
Electric vs. Hydronic
The appeal of a towel warmer is having a warm, cozy towel at an owner’s fingertips when they hop out of the shower, and towel warmers heat up using either electricity or a hydronic system.
- Electric towel warmers consume very little energy and are available as either plug-in or hardwired. Plug-in models are simply plugged into an outlet like other appliances, and most have an on/off switch with a timer. They can be wall-mounted or freestanding and placed wherever there is an electrical source. Much simpler to install, plug-in models are the more popular choice to add to an already finished bathroom. Hardwired towel warmers need to be integrated into the home’s electrical system and therefore require a professional to install them.
- Hydronic towel warmers use hot water to heat them. They are connected to the home’s plumbing system, and water runs through the bars to provide even warmth. In most cases, it’s easiest to install hydronic towel warmers during a home’s construction or as part of a remodeling project, as a plumber must connect it to the plumbing. Hydronic racks also make excellent supplemental heaters for the bathroom.
Style
The towel-warmer design can affect its look, functionality, and capacity, and some of the styles available include bucket, cabinet, and rack (either freestanding or wall-mounted). When shoppers are choosing the best towel warmer for their needs, they will want to consider the following options.
- Bucket: Towel-warming buckets resemble large hampers that sit on the floor. An open top (usually with a lid) accepts towels, blankets, and clothing for warming. Items that are placed in a warming bucket need to be completely dry, and it usually takes some time for items placed inside a towel warming bucket to get sufficiently warm. These models do tend to get towels hotter than rack versions.
- Cabinet: A common fixture at spas and hotels, cabinet towel warmers sit on a countertop or the floor. They have hinged doors and an insulated warming interior, and some offer a sterilizer function. Cabinet warmers usually provide the fastest, most even heating since the towels are kept warm inside an interior chamber.
- Rack: A heated towel rack is the best option for both warming and drying towels, unlike bucket and cabinet warmers, which only warm towels. Their hanging design allows for ample airflow around the towel, while the heat speeds up the drying process. Racks warm and dry clothing, too. However, since they aren’t in an enclosed chamber, they can take longer to heat up and can experience uneven heating depending on the rack and towel size.
- Freestanding: A freestanding towel warmer is an easy-to-install stand-alone option for hanging towels. These take up a bit of floor space but move from room to room with ease.
- Wall-Mounted: For a more compact option, consider a wall-mounted warming rack. These racks require an extra installation step, but they don’t take up any floor space, making them ideal for small bathrooms. They can even replace a standard towel bar. A curved towel warmer design can make it easier to hang towels, blankets, or clothing on the rack.
Size and Capacity
Towel warmers range in size from compact countertop units to tall freestanding racks. Shoppers will want to consider the room size, towel size, and how many towels they’ll want to heat at a time and pick accordingly.
Larger bath towels fit best on towel racks. Most can hold at least two towels at a time. Choose between a wall-mounted rack or a freestanding unit, depending on available space and preferred style. Towel-warmer buckets, more compact than racks, sit on the floor to hold a couple of towels. Towel-warmer cabinets usually sit on a countertop and are best suited to face and hand towels. Some larger cabinets can hold a couple of bath towels.
Buckets and racks usually weigh less than 15 pounds, and cabinets may weigh in at a slightly heavier weight. A lighter weight means the towel warmer will be easier to mount or move around.
Material
Towel warmers are available in different materials depending on the type selected. In most cases, towel-warmer racks are made of aluminum, stainless steel, or steel, often with a chrome or powder-coated finish.
Bucket towel warmers are made of a heat-resistant material, and some come with wooden lids. Cabinet-style towel warmers resemble a microwave oven. They’re usually a solid color and are typically made of metal and have a cool-touch exterior. There are some designer options available, too, including towel racks made of copper, some with gold plating, and some with a black finish.
Setup
When choosing a towel warmer, consider ease of installation, portability, and ease of use. Freestanding outlet-powered units are the easiest to set up. Some may require a handful of steps to assemble the rack or cabinet, but starting the warmer is as easy as plugging it in and switching it on. Wall-mounted towel bars require more setup, but they pay off in saved space.
Installation may vary by power source. Electric towel warmers may plug into a wall outlet or hardwire into the home electrical system. Hardwired warmers take more work to install, but the result is seamless and cord-free.
Hydronic towel warmers, the most complex to install, usually require a professional plumber. Because of their relatively complex setup, which requires connection to the plumbing, hydronic towel rack installation tends to be part of a larger bathroom remodel.
Features
Towel warmers can include a variety of features to save energy and ease use. Consider warm-up time, temperature output, and adjustable power or temperature settings.
- Adjustable temperature: Most electric towel warmers reach a safe maximum temperature ranging from 100 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit. If users want more control, they might want to consider a unit with multiple temperature settings.
- Timers and schedule settings: Simple timers switch off the warmer after a certain amount of time, while programmable timers allow users to set when the warmer turns on or off. Some warmers can take a while to warm up and to heat through a towel evenly, so make sure to consider heating time, which can range from 10 minutes to upward of 30 minutes.
- Portability: A portable, freestanding warmer allows owners to move the unit around the home to suit their needs, such as to a different bathroom, to the bedroom, or even poolside.
The Advantages of Owning a Towel Warmer
With the best towel warmer, users will always have a warm towel for a spa-like experience. More practical than a dryer, towel warmers keep towels warm just steps from the shower. These appliances add a luxurious last step to a shower routine, especially during fall and winter. Beyond keeping towels toasty warm, a rack-style towel warmer can also help towels dry faster, which keeps them cleaner for longer and reduces the odor, bacteria, and mildew that can come with dampness.
Best of all, the right towel warmer aids in a range of tasks. A freestanding warmer can gently dry delicate items, swimwear, warm clothes, bathrobes, and bedding. Use one in a mudroom to heat gloves, socks, or coats; in a laundry room to dry delicate items; or in the bedroom to make blankets extra cozy before bed. In short, a towel warmer is a worthy addition to any home for the following reasons:
- A towel warmer can help dry wet towels and linens more quickly and keep them free of mildew and foul odors, too.
- A quality warmer can go beyond the bath: Buyers can use a warmer in the laundry room for delicate items they’d rather not put in the dryer or in the pool house for drying wet swimsuits. It can also be used to warm robes and bedding to a cozy temperature.
- There’s something incredibly posh about using a warm, fresh towel every time one steps out of the shower or bath.
FAQs
A towel heater can take your post-shower routine to the next level. Beyond keeping towels and other items cozy and warm, these compact appliances are affordable to run and easy to maintain. Ahead are some frequently asked questions to consider about towel warmers.
Q. How do I keep my towel warmer clean?
Towel warmers require minimal maintenance. An occasional wash with a damp cloth (soaked in mild detergent, if needed) is often enough to keep the warmer clean.
For bucket or cabinet-style warmers, regular wipe downs with a soft, dry cloth can help reduce moisture buildup. Also, make sure to check and empty the drain tray as recommended by the manufacturer.
Q. Do electric towel warmers consume a lot of energy?
No, towel warmers are generally considered low-energy appliances, with most costing only a few cents per day to operate.
Q. Will a hot towel warmer heat a bathroom?
While it won’t replace a heater, a hot towel rack often radiates heat from both its horizontal and vertical bars, which means it will add some extra heat to a cold bathroom. Towel-warmer buckets or cabinets hold their heat inside and contribute less heat to the room.
Q. Is it safe to leave a heated towel rack on?
Most heated towel racks are safe to leave on, but check the manufacturer’s recommendations to be sure.
Q. What else can I use a towel warmer for?
Towel warmers are useful for much more than just warming towels. They can warm up almost any fabric item, including blankets, swimsuits, outerwear, and other clothing. They can also help dry items like swimsuits and delicates.
