1200mm Heated Towel Rails

A heated towel rail, sometimes called a heated towel radiator, is a wall-mounted fixture that provides heat to your bathroom whilst keeping towels warm and dry. Unlike a standard radiator, it has bars where towels can be hung, making it practical and stylish.

Depending on your needs, you can choose from an electric heated towel rail, a dual fuel heated towel rail, or a model that connects to your central heating system.

In many homes, a bathroom towel warmer can successfully replace a standard radiator. The key is choosing a model with enough BTUs (British Thermal Units) to heat both the towels and the bathroom.

Small bathrooms and cloakrooms may only need a compact heated towel rail of 1,000–2,000 BTUs, whilst larger family bathrooms might require a large heated towel rail of 4,000 BTUs or more.

If you are unsure what heat output you need for your wetroom, use our BTU Calculator for a quick, tailored recommendation.

The compatibility of a towel radiator depends on the type:

• A central heating towel rail connects directly to your boiler system and functions like a central heating radiator
• An electric heated towel rail, also known as an electric towel warmer, plugs into your mains supply and works independently of your heating system
• A dual fuel heated towel rail combines both options, allowing you to switch between central heating and electricity depending on your needs

If you’re unsure which option suits your bathroom, consider how often you’ll want to heat the rail outside of central heating periods.

Most towel rails are wall-mounted, supplied with brackets to hold them securely at a slight distance from the wall. This allows airflow and ensures even heat distribution.

Popular designs include vertical heated towel rails for tall, narrow spaces and horizontal heated towel rails for wider walls under windows. Whilst most are wall-fixed, you can also find freestanding options for flexible positioning.

Professional installation is recommended, especially for electric or dual-fuel models, to ensure safe wiring and plumbing.

The bleed valve is usually at the top of one side of the towel radiator. Opening it with a radiator key releases trapped air, improving efficiency. Regular bleeding helps maintain consistent warmth and prevents cold spots.

A bathroom heated towel rail works in three main ways:

• Central heating models circulate hot water from your boiler
• Electric heated towel rails use an electric element to heat fluid inside the rail
• Dual fuel offers both options for maximum flexibility

Heat radiates into the room and towels, giving you dry fabrics and a warm bathroom. Models range from modern heated towel radiators with sleek square edges to traditional styles, such as the traditional ladder towel rail.

The maximum heat output of a towel radiator depends on the size, material, and design. A small heated towel rail may provide 1,000–1,500 BTUs, whilst a rail in a larger format can exceed 5,000 BTUs.

The way you turn on a heated towel rail depends on the type:

• Central heating towel rails operate when your heating system is on
• An electric towel warmer is controlled by a switch, timer, or thermostat
• Dual fuel rails can be turned on with either system, giving seasonal flexibility

For convenience, many modern models include programmable timers, letting you preheat towels in the morning or evening.

To keep a stainless steel heated towel rail looking its best, turn it off and let it cool. Wipe it down with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth, avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasives. Then dry it with a microfibre cloth to remove any watermarks.

The same care applies to all finishes, whether it’s a white heated towel rail, a chrome towel radiator, or something else.

For best results, hang towels loosely so air can circulate. On a ladder heated towel rail, space towels across different rungs to improve drying.

Large bath sheets can be folded once before hanging, whilst smaller hand towels are best placed individually. Overcrowding a towel radiator reduces efficiency, so always allow room for heat to escape into the room.

Heated towel rails are available in a wide range of styles to suit both traditional and contemporary bathrooms. Options at Builder Depot include:

• Black heated towel rails for bold, modern bathrooms
• Chrome towel radiators for a polished, reflective look
• White heated towel rails for a clean, minimalist feel
• Anthracite and stainless steel towel rails for a contemporary touch
• Designer heated towel rails for high-end interiors

Whether you’re upgrading a cloakroom, designing a family bathroom, or looking for something to complement a luxury suite, towel radiators combine form and function. A well-chosen towel radiator not only keeps your bathroom warm but also prevents damp, reduces towel clutter, and adds a stylish finishing touch.

At Builder Depot, we offer an extensive range of heated towel rails in finishes such as black, chrome, matt white, and anthracite.

With options to suit every bathroom size and budget, from compact rails to high-heat output models, you’ll find the perfect match for your home. Shop with confidence knowing you’ll get great prices, reliable delivery, and quality products that bring comfort to your bathroom.