How to Choose a Towel Rail for Your Bathroom
By Robert Welch® Designs | Stainless-steel cutlery, knives & cookware | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: Buying Guides
Find the right towel rail for your bathroom with practical advice on size, material, and style. Learn why a double towel rail like the Oblique Towel Rail Double is a smart choice.
Quick answer
To choose a towel rail, match the rail length to your wall space and towel size, decide between single and double for your household's needs, and pick rust-proof stainless steel for long life in a humid bathroom.
Why size matters for your towel rail
A towel rail that's too short won't hold towels flat, leading to slower drying. A rail that's too long may dominate a small wall or leave awkward gaps. Measure the wall width before you shop, and consider how many towels you need to hang at once. A double rail like the Oblique Towel Rail Double (640 mm wide) offers two bars in one footprint, effectively doubling capacity without taking up extra wall width.
Material choice: stainless steel for bathroom use
Bathrooms are humid environments where rust and corrosion can ruin ordinary metal fittings. 18/10 stainless steel, used in Robert Welch bathroom fittings, resists rust and corrosion, keeping its mirror polish for years. It's easy to clean with a damp cloth and doesn't require special coatings or sealants. If you see a lower-priced rail, check the steel grade — 18/0 or 18/8 may not hold up as well.
Style and installation considerations
Towel rails come in straight, curved, and angled designs. The Oblique range's angled shape adds a modern touch and suits both contemporary and traditional bathrooms. All Robert Welch rails include screw fittings for easy wall mounting. Check the distance from the wall (142 mm for the Oblique Double) to ensure it clears any trim or tiles. If your wall is uneven, confirm that the fixing points allow adjustment.
How to choose your towel rail: decision rules
- Measure your wall space first: Measure the width of the wall where the rail will go. Subtract 50 mm from each side for a balanced look. The Oblique Towel Rail Double is 640 mm wide, so it needs at least 740 mm of clear wall.
- Decide between single and double: A single rail holds one towel per bar. A double rail holds two towels in the same width, ideal for couples or families. The Oblique Double gives you two bars without needing a wider wall. If you often need to dry two towels at once, a double rail saves space and avoids clutter.
- Check the material and finish: Look for 18/10 stainless steel for the best corrosion resistance. Mirror-polished finishes are easy to clean and stay shiny. Avoid painted or coated rails that may chip or peel in humidity.
- Consider the projection from the wall: The Oblique Double projects 142 mm from the wall. Ensure this leaves enough clearance for doors, cabinets, or radiators. A rail that sticks out too far can be a hazard in a narrow passage.
- Verify included fittings: All Robert Welch rails come with screw fittings for wall fixing. Confirm that the fixings suit your wall type (e.g., drywall, tile, or solid brick). For tile walls, you may need a tile drill bit and wall plugs. If you are not confident drilling into tile, hire a professional to avoid cracking.
Product facts
- Oblique Towel Rail Double: The Oblique Towel Rail Double is made from mirror-polished 18/10 stainless steel, which does not rust or corrode in a bathroom environment. This means the rail will maintain its appearance and function for years without needing replacement due to moisture damage.
Oblique Towel Rail Double
Is a double towel rail right for you?
Best for
- Households with two or more people who need to dry multiple towels at once
- Small bathrooms where wall width is limited but towel capacity is needed
Not ideal for
- Very narrow walls under 500 mm wide — a single rail or a smaller model may fit better
- Anyone who prefers a minimalist look with only one bar showing
