How to install a towel rail on a plasterboard wall?

Question

Hi BW!

I need some help installing a towel rail on plasterboard wall.

I have already attempted to install it, but i think i need to make it more secure to handle the weight/load (perhaps with plasterboard anchors).

My new towel rails didn't come with any instructions. From the brief research i did i decided i would install one of the ends to a stud.

I thought i had found a stud on the left-hand side (using a stud finder). When i drilled into the wall it got stuck after 1cm (using a normal 2.5mil drill bit). I decided to use a masonry drill bit (3mil) to push through, which worked, but I'm not sure what the material was (i only ever saw white plasterboard dust). The wall seems hollow, no wooden frame.

I then proceeded to screw in all the points (3x left and 3x right) to complete installation, but I'm fairly sure this is not recommended.

Can i get some advice on what i should do to make sure the points are stronger and reenforced please?

The pack came with some plastic wall plugs but i think these are brick/concrete/masonry.

EricL · Answer

Hello @simonmckb

Thank you for sharing your question about your towel rail. If your are looking for a stronger anchor, I suggest looking at either the

https://www.bunnings.com.au/tox-m6-flip-toggle-bolt_p2260713

or the

https://www.bunnings.com.au/ramset-1-8-x-50mm-carbon-steel-toggles-spring-pack-20-pack_p2260179

. It may be necessary to drill bigger holes, but these hollow wall anchors are dependable.

In regard to the first section you drilled into, I suggest using the

https://www.bunnings.com.au/ramset-6-x-38mm-universal-anchor-6-pack_p2260441

if you suspect that it is a masonry or brick wall.

Here is a handy guide: How to hang just about anything by @Adam_W.

Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a mask.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric