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. 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. 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)
Where Should a Toilet Paper Holder Be Mounted?
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.
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 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.
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!