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 — Electrical Installation: Hardwired, Plug-in, or Dual Connect

The final step in your installation is the electrical connection. Whether you’re looking for a quick DIY project or a seamless, cord-free look, WarmlyYours provides options for every scenario. Below, we’ll walk through the specific steps for Plug-in, Hardwired, and Dual Connect models.

Option 1: Install a Plug-in Model

Wall-Mounted 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.

Freestanding Models

For freestanding models like the Barcelona and Ibiza, follow these assembly steps from the installation manual:

1. Verify components: Ensure you have the main towel warmer assembly, two mounting platforms (feet), and four long screws.
2. Prepare work area: Set up in a convenient area. It may be easier to attach the feet if the bottom of the unit slightly overhangs a workbench.
3. Attach feet: Use a screwdriver to secure the mounting platforms to the bottom of the unit using the provided screws.
4. Level the unit: Turn the levelers on the feet clockwise or counter-clockwise until the unit is stable and level.
5. Connect power: Plug the unit into a compatible 120 VAC, GFCI-protected outlet.
6. Operation: Use the control switch on the side of the unit to turn it on or set the timer (2H or 4H).

Option 2: Install a Hardwired Model

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.

Hardwired Installation Steps

For hardwired-only models like the Grande, Maple, or Milan, follow these steps from the installation manual:

1. Prepare mounting tubes: Insert the short mounting screw through the center of each mounting tube.
2. Attach tubes to unit: Fix the mounting tubes to the threaded pads on the vertical bars on the back of the towel warmer. Ensure the set screw holes point towards the floor.
3. Electrical connection tube: Guide the electrical cord through the specific electrical connection mounting tube and tighten it to the vertical bar using the long mounting screw.
4. Mark the wall: Use the shipping box as a template or measure the distance between bracket centers to mark the four mounting points on the wall. The electrical point (typically point C) determines the junction box location.
5. Install brackets: Drill holes at the marked locations, insert drywall anchors, and secure the mounting brackets to the wall using the long screws.
6. Mount and secure: Slide the mounting tubes onto the wall brackets and tighten the set screws using the provided Allen wrench.
7. Final wiring: A licensed electrician will connect the Hot (black/blue), Neutral (white/brown), and Ground (green/yellow) wires to a 2"x4" electrical box on a GFCI-protected circuit.

Option 3: Install a Dual Connect Model

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.

Conversion Steps for Hardwiring

If you decide to hardwire your dual-connect model, follow these steps from the installation manual:

1. Prepare the unit: Your electrician will cut the power cord and remove the power leg to access the internal wiring.
2. Install the plug: Insert the provided plastic plug into the power leg where the cord exited.
3. Rough-in: Drill a hole in the wall at the power leg location and fish the house power supply cord through.
4. Mount the bracket: Secure the 3/4-size mounting bracket to the wall at the power connection point.
5. Connect wiring: While an assistant holds the unit, a licensed electrician will connect the towel warmer to a GFCI-protected circuit.
6. Final assembly: Push the connected wires into the power leg, slide the unit onto all four mounting brackets, and tighten the set screws to secure.

Watch: Installation Videos

Complete Walkthrough

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

Hardwired 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 you can find digital copies for every model on our towel warmer support portal. Our team is also available to walk you through any step of the process.