Are you looking to save space in your bathroom? High-quality, fully recessed toilet paper holders provide a practical and functional way to store and reach your toilet paper.
A recessed paper holder enables the roll to nestle inside the wall. This design tweak is ideal for smaller bathrooms or to suit homeowners who want their toilet paper to be less conspicuous.
If you’re wondering how to install a recessed toilet paper holder, WG Wood Products has DIY tips and steps to help you get started with the installation process — and finish the job right.
What Do I Need to Install a Fully Recessed Toilet Paper Holder?
If you are moving into a new home or remodeling an old bathroom, you may be looking to update or add a toilet paper holder. The task is not complicated or time-consuming, making it the perfect do-it-yourself home improvement project for homeowners with access to the right recessed toilet paper holder accessories.
Our fully recessed toilet paper holders are easy to install without the use of drills, screws and other tools. All you need is:
- Recessed toilet paper holder
- Pencil and level
- Utility knife, keyhole saw or cutting tool of your choice
- Construction adhesive
- Masking tape (optional)
How High Off the Ground Should a Mounted Toilet Paper Holder Be?
Rather than bending down below or back behind your toilet, you can keep your toilet paper within reach to maintain comfort and make the most of your space with a fully recessed toilet paper holder. We recommend mounting your holder in an easy-to-reach location in front of or beside your toilet. You can also install your toilet paper holder in the side of a cabinet.
The standard recommendation for reach is 8 to 12 inches from your toilet. If you have young children in the home, you might prefer to keep your holder at a closer 8 inches so it’s within a child’s reach. For an apartment or home hosting adults only, we suggest 10 to 12 inches instead.
How far up your toilet paper holder should be will vary based on several factors, but 26 inches from the floor is considered standard. This height keeps the roll at arm level and within easy reach for most individuals. If you have people in your household who require more assistance, consider following the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines. These indicate a minimum height of 15 inches but no higher than 48 inches.
How to Install a Recessed Toilet Paper Holder in Drywall
Cutting an opening into your wall and inserting your recessed toilet paper holder is easier (and less intimidating) than you might think. If you want to tackle this DIY project, follow these steps:
Step 1
Select a location for your recessed toilet paper holder. As we mentioned, your preferences matter. Choose the spot that’s right for your lifestyle.
Tip: Ensure the placement will not collide with any wall studs, which are located 16 inches apart in most homes.
Step 2
Cut an opening in the drywall to set the location and height of your toilet paper holder. Using a pencil and level, draw a rectangle the size of the holder — check the description of the unit you’re installing for the correct measurements. Then, use a utility knife, keyhole saw or another cutting tool to cut away the drywall or wood, staying inside the lines of the rectangle you made. Slide the holder into the opening to ensure a perfect fit.
Tip: Use discretion when making the hole in your drywall. It is easier to enlarge the space later than it is to patch the wall again.
Step 3
Use construction adhesive on the back side of the frame. This application will attach the holder to the wall inside the opening.
Tip: With our products, you do not need to apply adhesive around the sides and edges, which will minimize cleanup and make the installation look neater.
Step 4
With the adhesive in place, push the toilet paper holder into the wall. Make sure the holder is not wobbly or loose as the adhesive dries over the next few days.
Tip: Consider using masking tape to hold the recessed toilet paper holder in place and provide the adhesive with additional support.
Step 5
Insert your preferred brand of toilet paper onto the roller and you’re good to go!
Tip: Our recessed toilet paper holders fit any sized roll.
How to Install a Recessed Toilet Paper Holder in Other Materials
You can also install a recessed toilet tissue holder into other materials. To place one in a wooden cabinet, start by using a small piece of masking tape to mark the ideal location, which will largely depend on how close the toilet is to the cabinet. Use a larger piece of tape to mark the mounting hole locations. Use a screwdriver to make small dimples where the holes will be, making it easier to guide the drill bit.
Pre-drill the top mounting holes and check them to ensure the screws will fit correctly. After inserting the screws, add washers and nuts and tighten everything down. Place the holder and tighten the set screws to complete the installation.
The process is similar when installing a holder in tile, although you should not use wood screws to prevent damaging the material.
How to Replace a Recessed Toilet Paper Holder
If you ever need to know how to replace your fully recessed toilet paper holder or remove it from the wall, follow these simple steps:
Step 1
Use a cutting tool to cut around the holder. Make the opening slightly larger than the unit itself for easy removal.
Step 2
Gently tap the top of the toilet paper holder with a soft-face hammer. Then, pull the holder out of the hole.
Step 3
Replace the toilet paper holder with an updated option. If you want to use a different size holder, enlarge to scale or fill in the hole around the new holder to account for the size difference. If you want to remove the toilet paper holder entirely, cut a piece of drywall and patch it to the wall with some joint compound.
You can also repair dents and tiny holes in the drywall by filling them with lightweight spackle. If you have larger cracks, use a putty knife to widen them where needed. Apply spackle and use the knife to cover and smooth it over the damaged areas.
Browse the Fully Recessed Toilet Paper Holder Collection From WG Wood Products
With over 17 years of industry experience, our team knows how to make and install quality recessed holders and other useful fixtures. At WG Wood Products, we offer free customization and free shipping, so you can spend less money and save more time as you prepare for your DIY project. You have various choices in plastic or solid wood for single, double or storage cabinet fully recessed toilet paper holders.
Our handcrafted products are manufactured in the USA, and our online shop has something for any bathroom with our FrameChoice® styles and ColorMatch Service® or stain finishes. Browse our recessed toilet paper holder collection today to find a unique option that works for your bathroom!
