A towel rack having an actuating retainer bar is described. The retainer bar is configured to actuate down to secure a towel draped over the towel bar. A locking feature retains the retainer bar in a dosed position and can be released by a release device in some configurations. A spring configured in an actuator to pull the retainer bar up and away from the towel bar, thereby allowing a user to remove a towel or other article. In an alternative configuration, the towel rack has an engagement bracket that allows for the positioning of the retainer bar along a slot. The retainer bar may be manually manipulated along the slot and locked into position by a plurality of teeth.