Typically, the time we spend in the bathroom is also part of the time where we’re most vulnerable, so it’s important to keep the space as calming as possible for the most satisfying experience. Luxuries like soft, fluffy towels and relaxed lighting are just a few ways to add some coziness to the bathroom. Or, if you’re serious about your shower time, you could also use natural materials to DIY a cozy cave bathroom. For those who are looking for an upgrade somewhere between replacing the linens and a full remodel, consider investing a bit of money into a gadget that can make any bathroom feel instantly more cozy: a towel warmer.

There are many different styles of towel warmers, but all serve the same basic purpose of keeping your linens just hot enough to provide maximum comfort when used, especially if you can grab a warm towel after stepping out of the shower on a cold day. Even if the weather is already warm, a hot towel can still encourage relaxation by gently easing muscle tension. Additionally, these appliances can do more than warm towels. They can also speed up the drying process for swimsuits, delicates, or other wet clothes that are best kept out of a large tumble dryer.

Towel warmers are generally available in three categories. Bucket-style towel warmers heat towels in a lidded container and can often be kept on a countertop or table. Both freestanding and wall-mounted towel warmers look like ladders with rungs to hang linens over, but being able to mount the machine on a wall tends to be a more effective use of a space. While many of these products you find on the market work electronically, it is possible to connect some towel warmers to your home’s hot water. If you opt for a hydronic towel warmer, you’ll likely need to recruit a professional to help. There is no small number of these luxury heaters available, so check out our recommendations for the top five towel warmers to buy for your bathroom. Multiple factors will affect the warmer’s cost, but they tend to run around $50 to $250.

The most obvious place for a towel warmer might be next to the shower, but they are also handy near pools, in the kitchen, or anywhere else a relieving warm towel would be appreciated. Towel warmers are definitely a luxury, but they also tend to be energy efficient and worth the investment. However, it is another item that needs a good storage spot, so if you do pick one up, be sure to avoid any bathroom design choices that will make the space feel cluttered.