How to Install a Towel Warmer: Hardwired, Plug-in & Dual Connect

Installing a towel warmer is one of the most straightforward bathroom upgrades you can make — but the right approach depends entirely on which connection type you choose. Plug-in models take minutes and require no electrician. Hardwired models deliver a seamless, cord-free finish and require a licensed electrician for the final connection. Dual connect models give you both options. This guide walks through all three.

Step 1 — Choose Your Connection Type

Before picking up a drill, confirm which connection type your model uses. This determines everything about the installation process.

Step 2 — Choose Your Location

Placement matters for both performance and code compliance. Follow these rules before marking your wall:

The ideal location is within arm's reach of your shower or tub — close enough to grab a warm towel immediately when stepping out, but outside the splash zone. Interior walls are preferred for hardwired models because they offer easier access to electrical wiring and better heat retention.

The wall behind the door is a frequently overlooked option — especially in small bathrooms. A narrow model like the Maple 8 (20.4" wide) fits perfectly there without interfering with door swing.

Step 3 — Mark & Mount

All WarmlyYours towel warmers ship with a mounting template — the shipping box itself doubles as the template in most models. Here's the standard process for wall-mounted units:

1. Use the box as a template: Hold the shipping box against the wall at your desired height and mark the mounting hole positions through the pre-cut holes in the box.
2. Check for level: Use a spirit level to confirm the marks are perfectly horizontal before drilling.
3. Drill and anchor: For drywall, use the included toggle bolts. For studs, drill directly into the wood — no anchors needed.
4. Mount the brackets: Secure the mounting brackets to the wall at the marked positions.
5. Hang the unit: Lift the towel warmer onto the brackets and secure with the included set screws using an Allen wrench.
6. Remove protective caps: Pull the plastic caps from the bar ends before use.

Step 4 — Connect Power

Plug-in Models

Once mounted, simply plug the unit into a nearby GFCI outlet. The outlet must be within 6 feet of the unit. A cord cover is included to route the cord neatly along the wall — most homeowners paint it to match the wall color for a cleaner look.

Hardwired Models

The physical mounting is identical to plug-in — but the electrical connection must be completed by a licensed electrician. Your electrician will connect the unit to a dedicated GFCI-protected circuit in the wall. Plan this step during a bathroom renovation when wall access is easiest.

Dual Connect Models

Dual connect models ship ready to plug in. To convert to hardwired, your electrician removes the plug cord and connects the internal wiring directly to the wall circuit. This makes dual connect models ideal if you want to start plug-in now and convert to hardwired during a future renovation.

Watch: Installation Videos

Watch our complete installation walkthrough covering both hardwired and plug-in connection types — including placement, mounting, electrical connection, and controls setup:

Hardwired Installation: Step-by-Step Deep Dive

Planning a hardwired installation during a renovation? This dedicated walkthrough goes deeper on the hardwired-only process — covering wire routing, junction box placement, and what to expect when your electrician makes the final connection. Worth watching before your electrician arrives so you can plan the rough-in correctly.

Need Help?

WarmlyYours offers free 24/7 technical support for installation questions — call 800-875-5285 or visit our support center. Every towel warmer ships with a full installation manual, and our team can walk you through any step of the process.