The best solutions 2026

A cold bathroom is not only uncomfortable, but also impractical. Especially in homes without radiators or where the existing heating system is insufficient, showering can quickly feel chilly in the winter.

Fortunately, in 2026 there are several smart, energy-efficient ways to heat a bathroom quickly and safely, without major renovations or connection to the central heating system.

In this complete guide, you'll discover exactly how to heat your bathroom without a radiator , which solutions are the most efficient, and which one best suits your space.

Why are bathrooms so difficult to heat?

Bathrooms cool down faster than other rooms simply because of the materials used and the design.

The main causes:

• Tiles and stone surfaces retain cold

• Lots of ventilation → heat escapes quickly

• Usually smaller size → cools quickly

• Few central heating connections → no standard radiator

That's why traditional heating often isn't effective here. A bathroom requires targeted, fast, and safe heat .

1. Electric towel radiator

This is the solution for bathrooms without a radiator.

An electric towel radiator heats:

✔️ the space
✔️ your towels
✔️ the walls around

Modern models have a thermostat, eco mode, and timer, making them very energy-efficient. They heat up in minutes and take up very little space.

Advantages:

• plug & play, no central heating or installer required

• heats small bathrooms quickly

• prevents moisture and mold

• lovely warm towels after showering

View the towel radiators here

2. Infrared panels

Infrared panels are ideal for bathrooms because they don't heat the air , but your body, the walls, and the floor. This creates a comfortable, warm feeling within minutes.

They are super energy efficient and ideal for damp areas (provided the IP rating is suitable).

Advantages:

• direct, sunny heat

• consumes up to 40% less energy

• no dry air

• can be mounted on the wall or ceiling

• space-saving

View the infrared panels here

3. Convectors for rapid air heating

A compact convector can quickly heat a small bathroom. Convectors draw in cold air, warm it up, and gently blow it back into the room.

This is a good temporary or secondary heat source .

Advantages:

• heats up quickly

• quiet

• ideal as extra warmth while showering

• safe in combination with bathroom zones (provided they are not in a wet zone)

View the convectors here

4. Infrared floor panels

A cold tiled floor makes a bathroom feel even colder. Panel-based infrared underfloor heating is a great, plug-and-play solution, requiring no demolition work.

Advantages:

• warm floor within minutes

• extremely low consumption

• ideal for cold mornings

• safe for bathrooms (with correct IP value)

5. Combine ventilation and heating

Many people underestimate the importance of ventilation. A warm bathroom condenses, and condensed air cools faster. A ventilation system that removes moisture makes heating more effective.

Best order:

1. Shower

2. Ventilate (remove moisture)

3. Heater on for after-heating

Which solution suits your bathroom?

Here's a quick selection guide:

Small bathroom (<6 m²)

→ Electric towel radiator
→ Small infrared panel

Medium bathroom (6–12 m²)

Towel radiator + extra infrared panel

Large bathroom

→ Convector + strong infrared panel

Always a cold floor?

→ Infrared floor panel

Practical example (directly applicable)

Situation: Bathroom of 5 m² without radiator.

• One exterior wall

• Cold floor

• Poor insulation

Best solution:
→ Electric towel radiator for the room
→ Small IR panel opposite the shower wall

Result: noticeably warm within 5–8 minutes, no mold formation and always dry towels.

Conclusion

A bathroom without a radiator doesn't have to be a problem at all.
With the right electric heating you not only make the room warm, but also safer, drier and more comfortable.

Whether you choose an infrared panel, a smart convector, or an electric towel radiator: modern solutions are energy-efficient, stylish, and easy to install.