Heated towel rails may well be the go-to choice for bathrooms – but they’re not the only way to keep the space warm. In this guide, we’ll explore the best radiators for bathrooms beyond heated towel rails, from slim vertical designs and compact column radiators to water-resistant electric models that are perfect for off-grid homes.
You’ll learn how to select the right bathroom radiator for your specific layout, how IP ratings can affect safety near water, and which radiator profiles deliver the best balance of performance and style.
Why bathrooms might need more than heated towel rails
Bathroom heating is about more than just dry towels; it’s about comfort, safety, and style. Although heated towel rails are great for keeping your bath sheets toasty, they rarely generate enough heat to warm the entire space efficiently, particularly in larger bathrooms, or heavily tiled bathrooms that are more likely to retain cold.
A well-chosen bathroom radiator can:
- Provide warmth for the whole room, as opposed to just spot heating.
- Deliver improved temperature control, especially in winter.
- Offer a design focal point that accentuates your tiles, flooring, and fixtures.
The best bathroom radiators from BestHeating
Below are ten expert-approved picks of the best bathroom radiators available to purchase from BestHeating. Each offers something unique — whether it’s space efficiency, heritage charm, or high water resistance for humid environments.
The top 10 bathroom radiators
1. Milano Aruba vertical designer radiator - Best for small bathrooms
The Milano Aruba vertical designer radiator is a tenured customer favourite, and with very good reason. Its tall, slim profile is ideal for tight bathrooms or en-suite areas where wall space is limited, while still providing an excellent heat output.
- BTU: 2,800-6,000 (depending on size)
- Finish: White, anthracite
- Orientation: Vertical
- Why it’s great: Space-saving, high heat efficiency, and a sleek finish that complements almost any décor.
- Best for: Compact bathrooms, cloakrooms, or between fixtures.
Paul Cavanagh, product procurement specialist at BestHeating says: “Vertical radiators like the Aruba make clever use of unused wall height, giving you more freedom for storage and mirrors.”
2. Milano Alpha anthracite horizontal flat panel radiator - Best for modern bathrooms
If your bathroom is minimalist and modern, the Milano Alpha anthracite designer radiator is a perfect match. Available in both horizontal and vertical designs, its rectangular panels and smooth anthracite finish exude an elegant, architectural look. It offers substantial heat for medium-sized bathroom spaces without dominating or overwhelming your design scheme.
- BTU: 3,500-7,200
- Finish: Anthracite
- Orientation: Vertical or horizontal
- Why it’s great: Clean lines, strong aesthetic impact, durable powder-coated finish.
- Best for: Contemporary bathrooms or new-build properties.
Jess Steele, heating trends analyst for BestHeating: “The Alpha pairs beautifully with brushed brass fixtures or black shower frames for a coordinated modern look.”
3. Milano Windsor triple column radiator - Best for heritage bathrooms
Add a touch of Victorian charm to your bathroom with the Milano Windsor triple column radiator, presented in a choice of stunning metallic finishes. Its three-column design mimics classic cast iron radiators but with the added bonus of a modern-day efficient performance. Despite the heritage look, it works effortlessly in cohesion with contemporary boilers.
- BTU: 3,000-9,000
- Finish: Bronze, copper, silver, gold, brass, pewter, raw metal
- Orientation: Horizontal or vertical
- Why it’s great: Timeless aesthetic meets high heat output.
- Best for: Period-style bathrooms, traditional homes, or those mixing modern and vintage décor.
4. Milano x ECOSO Aruba electric anthracite radiator - Best plug-in practicality
Modern, powerful and compact, the Milano x ECOSO Aruba electric radiator is a brilliant choice for bathrooms without central heating. Another to feature an IP64-rated heating element, this model guarantees a safe installation in bathroom areas, and delivers a reliable heat output with an attractive anthracite finish.
- Wattage: 600W
- IP Rating: IP64 (splash-proof)
- Finish: Anthracite, oval-tube design
- Orientation: Horizontal
- Why it’s great: Easy to install, safe for damp rooms, and ideal for zone-controlled heating.
- Best for: En-suites, second bathrooms, and modern flats or apartments.
5. Milano Windsor electric triple column radiator - Best heritage-look electric pick
Blending classic style with modern technology, the Milano Windsor electric triple column radiator combines the vintage appeal of cast-iron-style columns with fully electric convenience. It comes complete with an IP64-rated heating element, ensuring it is safe for use in suitably zoned bathroom areas when installed by a qualified electrician. The ideal option if you want traditional charm with plug-in practicality.
- Wattage: 600-1,200W (depending on size)
- IP Rating: IP64 (splash-proof – Zone 2 compatible)
- Finish: White traditional triple column design
- Control: Optional Wi-Fi thermostat
- Why it’s great: Delivers classic column character without plumbing – perfect for off-grid or renovated bathrooms.
- Best for: Period-style bathrooms, annex conversions, or heritage interiors with limited pipework access.
6. Milano Capri vertical radiator - Best for tall, narrow bathrooms
The Milano Capri vertical radiator blends bold design elements with a layer of practicality. Its vertical format makes it an ideal fit for narrow bathrooms, while its impressive heat output delivery ensures reliable warmth in tiled spaces that tend to hold the cold.
- BTU: 4,000-7,500
- Finish: Anthracite, white
- Orientation: Vertical
- Why it’s great: Modern lines, strong performance, and a premium matt finish.
- Best for: Tall bathrooms or bathrooms with high ceilings.
7. Milano Windsor vertical double column radiator - Best traditional space saver
If your bathroom features high ceilings or a classic décor scheme, the Milano Windsor vertical double column radiator can provide the perfect fit. It offers traditional charm in a tall, narrow frame, maximising valuable wall space while maintaining a generous heat output.
- BTU: 2,500-5,500 (depending on size)
- Finish: White, anthracite, or black
- Orientation: Vertical
- Why it’s great: Combines timeless column style with modern heating efficiency.
- Best for: Heritage bathrooms, tall walls, or spaces where horizontal radiators won’t fit.
8. Milano Aruba vertical double panel designer radiator - Best modern statement for compact spaces
The Milano Aruba vertical double panel designer radiator is one of our best-selling designer radiators and deservedly so if we do say so ourselves. Available in a huge array of stylish finishes to accentuate any interior, its slim, tall design makes it a brilliant pick for smaller bathrooms, while the double-panel build delivers an excellent BTU output for tiled or poorly insulated spaces.
- BTU: 4,000-7,500 (depending on size)
- Finish: White, anthracite, black, blue, grey, purple, green, red, orange, yellow, pink, brown
- Orientation: Vertical
- Why it’s great: Combines sleek, modern looks with exceptional heat performance.
- Best for: Small-to-medium bathrooms, en-suites, and modern refurbishment or renovation projects.
9. Milano Alpha white vertical flat panel radiator - Best minimalist look for bright bathrooms
Slim, sleek and effortlessly clean, the Milano Alpha vertical flat panel radiator is an idealistic upgrade for modern bathroom interiors. Although supplied in a wide choice of stylish finishes, we’ll focus on the white version which has a smooth white surface which reflects light beautifully. In turn, the flat-panel design is easy to keep clean in humid spaces.
- BTU: 3,000-6,500 (depending on size)
- Finish: White
- Orientation: Vertical
- Why it’s great: Simple, minimalist form that works perfectly in neutral or Scandi-style bathrooms.
- Best for: Light bathrooms, contemporary flats or apartments, and modern en-suites.
10. ECOSO Tuc ceramic core electric heater - Best compact electric choice for modern bathrooms
The ECOSO Tuc ceramic core electric heater is a superb alternative to traditional heated towel rails – offering sleek design properties, splash-resistant safety, and zoned electric control.
Lot 20 compliant, the ECOSO Tuc is assured safe for use in appropriately zoned bathroom areas (when installed by a qualified electrician), while the diminutive, narrow form makes it ideal for bathrooms short on wall space.
- Wattage: 700-2000W
- Finish: White, graphite
- Orientation: Vertical/horizontal
- Control: Optional Wi-Fi thermostat with programmable scheduling
- Why it’s great: Neat, powerful, and safe for bathrooms – with a refined finish choice certain to complement modern décor.
- Best for: En-suites, smaller bathroom areas, or minimalist interiors where space and safety both matter.
Understanding bathroom safety: IP ratings explained
Bathrooms are divided into three separate electrical safety zones, each requiring a specific Ingress Protection (IP) rating for any powered electric appliance.
Zone | Distance from Water Source | Minimum IP Rating | Example Products |
Zone 0 | Inside bath/shower | IP67 | Fully sealed lighting |
Zone 1 | Directly above bath/shower | IP65 | Extractor fans |
Zone 2 | 0.6m from bath/shower | IP44+ | Electric radiators like Milano Tucana |
Outside Zones | Beyond Zone 2 | IP20+ | Most plumbed radiators |
Always install electric heating devices in accordance with BS 7671 wiring regulations and consult a qualified electrician for bathroom work. For full safety guidance, see Electrical Safety First’s bathroom regulations.
How to choose a bathroom radiator
1. Calculate the right BTU
Use our BTU Calculator to make sure your radiator can heat your bathroom effectively; bathrooms usually require more BTUs per m² than bedrooms due to tiling and humidity.
2. Think vertically
In smaller bathroom spaces, vertical radiators maximise wall space and help to facilitate creative layouts.
3. Prioritise moisture resistance
Opt for powder-coated finishes or stainless steel radiator models to avoid corrosion from humidity.
4. Consider electric options
If your bathroom isn’t on your central heating circuit, a splash-rated electric radiator like options from the Milano x ECOSO range ensure safe, independent heating.
5. Balance function and form
From industrial-style anthracite to classic Windsor white, your bathroom radiator can double as a design statement – not just a heat source. Choose from an excellent variety of ultra-stylish finishes that will mesh well with your specific bathroom décor.
What type of radiator is best for a small bathroom?
For small bathrooms or compact cloakrooms, invest in vertical radiators that utilise wall height rather than floor space.
If your bathroom has a more traditional vibe, a compact column radiator such as our double column Windsor styles can bring classic charm without a bulky appearance.
Shop bathroom radiators at BestHeating
Whether you’re looking to modernise a family bathroom or add a luxurious touch to your en-suite, you’ll find the perfect bathroom radiator to suit your style at BestHeating.com.
Shop online with us today, and make sure to show off your bathroom heating upgrades by reaching out to us on Instagram, Facebook or X.
John is a Research Specialist for the Best Heating Advice Centre, where for over nine years he has dedicated himself to demystifying home heating for our customers. He specialises in creating clear, data-driven guides and how-to articles by collaborating directly with our team of certified heating experts and product engineers.
His work, built on a foundation of journalistic research, has helped millions of readers make confident and informed decisions about their home heating. When he’s not breaking down the heat output differentials from radiators to heated towel rails, John fancies himself as a fine football and music connoisseur.
