When it comes to remodeling or building a bathroom, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right shower size. Showers come in a variety of dimensions, from compact stalls to spacious walk-in showers. Knowing the standard shower sizes available can help you select the perfect fit for your space and needs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about standard shower sizes.

What Are The Typical Shower Dimensions?

Showers are typically categorized into three main types based on size:

Standard Shower Stalls

The smallest and most basic shower option is the standard shower stall. These stalls have three enclosed sides and are designed to fit in tight spaces. Standard sizes for shower stalls are:

32 x 32 inches – The most compact shower stall option. Fits in tiny bathrooms.
36 x 36 inches – Little bigger than 32 x 32 inch stalls. Can accommodate some body types.
42 x 42 inches – A medium-sized standard shower stall. Comfortable for most users.
48 x 48 inches – A larger standard shower stall size. Provides ample elbow room.

Neo Angle Showers

Neo angle showers have one or two open sides and two angled glass walls meeting at a corner. Popular neo angle shower sizes are:

32 x 32 x 39 inches – Compact neo angle shower stall.
36 x 36 x 39 inches – Average-sized neo angle showers.
42 x 42 x 39 inches – Comfortably spacious neo angle showers.
48 x 48 x 39 inches – Large neo angle showers with ample space.

Walk-In Showers

Walk-in showers have no doors or curtains, with open access on one or more sides. Common walk-in shower dimensions are:

48 x 32 inches – Elongated walk-in with one open side.
48 x 48 inches – Medium square walk-in shower.
60 x 32 inches – Rectangular walk-in with ample depth.
60 x 36 inches – Generous sized walk-in shower stall.
60 x 42 inches – Large spacious walk-in shower.
60 x 48 inches – Expansive walk-in shower with two open sides.
60 x 60 inches – Extra roomy square walk-in shower design.

As you can see, standard shower sizes can range from as small as 32 inches to as large as 60 inches. The dimensions you choose depend on your specific bathroom layout, design, and needs.

What’s The Standard Shower Size For Small Bathrooms?

For half baths, powder rooms, and other tiny bathroom spaces, a 32 x 32 inch shower stall is the standard go-to size. At just 32 x 32 inches, this compact shower squeezes into the smallest bathrooms and still allows comfortable movement.

Other standard shower sizes that work for small bathrooms include:

36 x 36 inch stall – Gives you a few more inches but still fits in tight bathrooms.
Corner shower unit – Takes advantage of unused corner space.
Neo angle stall – Angled design maximizes space.
Walk-in with one open side – Elongated shape ideal for small baths.

When choosing a shower for a small bathroom, look for narrower stalls, corner placements, and elongated shapes rather than square designs. Focus on comfort and functionality over spaciousness.

What’s The Average Shower Size?

The most common and average shower size is 36 x 36 inches. At 3 feet square, this 36 x 36 inch stall fits most standard bathrooms. It leaves enough room to bathe comfortably without dominating the space.

Other popular standard shower sizes include:

32 x 32 inches – The smallest usable shower stall.
42 x 42 inches – A medium-large shower stall.
48 x 32 inches – An elongated 1 person shower.
48 x 48 inches – A generously sized shower stall.
60 x 36 inches – An average sized walk-in shower.

A 36 x 36 inch or 42 x 42 inch shower offers a versatile fit for most bathrooms. They accommodate 1-2 people without needing expansive space. Focus on a 36 or 42 inch square or neo angle shower for an accessible, easy-to-use size.

What’s Considered A Large Shower?

For more spacious bathrooms, you have flexibility to install an oversized or custom extra-large shower. Here are some standard sizes considered to be large showers:

48 x 48 inch stall – A 4 x 4 foot stall provides ample elbow room.
60 x 42 inch stall – Extra depth for a spacious rectangular design.
60 x 48 inch stall – A very roomy neo angle shower space.
60 x 60 inch stall – A 60 x 60 inch square shower is quite sizeable.
72 x 72 inch stall – A 6 x 6 foot stall offers luxury showering room.
8 x 4 foot stall – An elongated walk-in shower design.
10 x 4 foot stall – A super spacious elongated walk-in shower.

For maximum luxury, custom oversized showers can be built up to huge dimensions. Keep in mind extra large showers require extensive waterproofing and floor drainage. Carefully plan the layout to avoid overflow flooding issues.

How Big Should A Walk-In Shower Be?

Walk-in showers are designed without doors, completely open on one or more sides. There are several recommended walk-in shower sizes:

4 x 4 feet – 48 x 48 inches is an average walk-in shower size. Allows some freedom of movement.
5 x 3 feet – 60 x 32 inches adds extra depth for a standard rectangular walk-in.
5 x 4 feet – A 60 x 48 inch walk-in creates a spacious effect.
5 x 5 feet – 60 x 60 inches or larger is ideal for a roomy walk-in shower.
6 x 4 feet – 72 x 48 inches makes for a generously sized walk-in.

Consider the bathroom floor space when selecting walk-in shower dimensions. Measure to make sure your planned walk-in size allows clearance around other fixtures and furniture.

How Big Are Custom Shower Sizes?

Beyond standard sizes, custom showers allow you to create any shower dimensions you desire. Custom showers are built to fit your specialized space or to create an extra-spacious effect.

Common custom shower dimensions include:

Corner showers filling dead space
Curved and irregular shaped showers
Extra-long rectangular or L-shaped showers
Expansive 4 x 8 or 5 x 10 foot showers
Shower benches, niches and seating taking up floor space
Wheelchair accessible showers

For custom showers, work with an experienced contractor to lay out the space and drainage requirements. Be sure to calculate the impact on plumbing and water pressure when going for extra large shower sizes.

What Size Should A Master Bathroom Shower Be?

For master suites and primary bathrooms, larger showers tend to be more popular for convenience and luxury. Recommended master bathroom shower sizes include:

4 x 4 foot stall – Provides two people room to move freely.
5 x 5 foot stall – Ideal spacious size for a master walk-in shower.
6 x 4 foot stall – Long rectangular design with room to spare.
8 x 4 foot stall – Custom oversized shower for luxury master baths.
Corner shower 6 x 6 feet – Fills unused space efficiently.

Consider factors like dual shower heads, long rainshowers, body spray jets, and shower benches when sizing an extra roomy master bath shower.

What’s The Minimum Shower Size?

While 36 x 36 inches is the most comfortable standard, the absolute minimum shower size is 32 x 32 inches. A 32 inch square stall allows basic functionality for quick showers. However, the limited space can make bathing difficult.

32 x 32 inch shower stalls are best used for:

Half bathrooms and powder rooms.
Tight spaces and secondary baths.
Children, seniors, and accessible use.
Shower stalls with glass doors vs. curtains.

Unless you have severe space limitations, choose at least a 36 inch shower for adequate elbow room and usability. For comfortable regular showering, 42 x 42 inches or larger is ideal.

What Depth Is Best For A Shower?

Shower depth, or the inward space from the opening, is an important dimension. Depth provides room for body movement and using showerheads comfortably.

Recommended shower depths:

Standard stalls – 32 to 36 inches deep.
Neo angle stalls – 36 inches depth preferred.
Walk-in showers – At least 42 to 48 inches deep.
Luxury custom showers – 60 inches depth or more.

If your planned shower feels shallow, look at increasing the depth. Avoid cramped 24 or 30 inch depths that limit your ability to enjoy the shower freely.

What Size Shower Is ADA Compliant?

For wheelchair users and accessible shower design, ADA guidelines regulate minimum sizes:

Transfer showers – 36 x 36 inches minimum.
Roll-in showers – 60 x 30 inch clear floor space minimum.
Alternate roll-in showers – 60 x 36 inch clear floor space.

ADA showers must also have grab bars, seats, wheel-in clearance, and slip-resistant floors. Follow all ADA bathroom regulations carefully when designing an accessible shower space.

What’s The Standard Bathtub Size?

Bathtub dimensions are also standardized, with a few typical sizes:

60 x 30 inches – Common tub length with economical small size.
60 x 32 inches – Similar length with a bit more soaking width.
66 x 30 inches – Extra long tub allowing prone bathing.
60 x 42 inches – spacious width for comfort and two people.
72 x 42 inches – Expansive soaking tub length and width.

Standard bathtub sizes range from compact 60 x 30 inches up to generous 72 x 42 inches dimensions. Choose based on your bathroom layout and preferences.

How Does Shower Size Affect Water Pressure?

Water pressure, or the gallons per minute coming from your showerhead, impacts showering performance. Pressure must adequately fill a shower space.

Smaller showers generally need:

32 x 32 inches: 3 gpm (gallons per minute)
36 x 36 inches: 4 gpm
42 x 42 inches: 5 gpm

Larger showers require higher water pressure of:

48 x 48 inches: 6-7 gpm
60 x 36 inches: 8 gpm
60 x 60 inches: 9 gpm or more

Before installing an oversized shower, ensure your home’s plumbing system can handle the increased water pressure demand. Upgrade pipes or add a booster pump if needed.

How Does Shower Size Impact Cost?

Bigger showers require more materials, labor, waterproofing, and installation time. Shower size significantly influences overall budget.

Average Shower Remodel Costs by Size

32 x 32 inch stall: $1,000 to $2,500
36 x 36 inch stall: $2,000 to $3,500
42 x 42 inch stall: $3,000 to $4,500
48 x 48 inch stall: $3,500 to $6,000
60 x 32 inch walk-in: $4,000 to $7,500
60 x 60 inch walk-in: $7,500 to $10,000+

Custom extra large showers can cost tens of thousands. Remember to account for demolition, plumbing, tiles, and other parts of your shower remodel project too.

What Special Features Impact Shower Size?

Many factors beyond the basic dimensions can impact the size needed for your dream shower.

Multiple shower heads – Allow room for you to stand between rainshowers.
Body jets – Factor in space to experience sprays from all directions.
Glass doors vs. curtains – Doors need more clearance to open and close.
Bench seating – Benches protrude inward taking up floor space.
Accessibility – Wheelchair-friendly showers need 5 foot diameter turning space.
Shower niches – Built-in shelves and niches take up wall space.
Pet bathing – Dog showering requires more elbow room and sprayers.

Take all your planned shower features into account when settling on the right size. Add a few extra inches to be sure.

What Are Signs You Need A Bigger Shower?

Do any of these issues sound familiar? If so, a larger shower may be in order:

Tight quarters when sharing with a partner
Elbows hitting walls during washing
Water spray missing parts of your body
Contact with shower curtains or doors
Slippery conditions
Limited mobility and range of motion
Overall feeling of confinement

Your shower should feel spacious enough to move and cleanse comfortably. Upgrade to a more generously sized and ergonomic shower design if needed.

How Can I Maximize A Small Shower?

If you’re stuck with a tiny shower stall, there are some tricks to boost comfort and function:

Clear clutter – Remove all unnecessary items taking up space.
Add a shelf – Built-in shelving provides storage without taking up floor area.
Use a water-resistant stool – A stool lets you sit while showering.
Install a handheld showerhead – Handheld heads increase range of motion.
Choose sliding doors – Sliding doors hug the walls tighter than swinging doors.
Use a foldable seat – A fold-up seat can be closed when not needed.
Go frameless – Frameless glass doors provide a more open feel.

With some clever optimizations, you can make a small shower feel more expansive and usable.

FAQs About Standard Shower Sizes

What is the most common shower size?

The most popular and widely used shower size is 36 x 36 inches. A 36 inch square stall fits easily into any standard bathroom. It offers adequate room for most people to bathe comfortably.

How big should my shower be?

The optimal shower size for your bathroom depends on available space, usage needs, and your preferred design. As a baseline, aim for at least 36 x 36 inches for a functional shower. Larger walk-in showers up to 60 x 36 inches provide luxury.

Can you put a 48 inch shower in a 60 inch space?

Yes, a 48 inch square shower will fit into a standard 60 inch long alcove or bathtub space with proper layout and plumbing adjustments. Ensure you leave room for installation clearance and shower doors.

What is the smallest shower size?

The smallest recommended shower stall is 32 x 32 inches. A 32 inch square stall allows basic showering function but very limited space. Avoid going smaller than 32 x 32 inches.

What size shower is comfortable for two people?

For a comfortable double person shower, choose at least:

48 x 48 inch stall or
60 x 36 inch walk-in shower

This provides space to bathe together without tight squeezing or bumping.

Can you put a 36 inch shower in a 32 inch space?

No, a 36 inch shower requires a minimum 36 inch wide clear space. Attempting to squeeze a 36 inch stall into a 32 inch opening results in an unusable shower.

What is the standard height for shower heads?

The standard showerhead height is 65 to 70 inches from the tub floor. Handshower mounting brackets should be installed 72 to 80 inches high. Follow ADA guidelines if required.

What size is a ADA compliant shower?

ADA compliant shower stalls must be at least 36 x 36 inches. Roll-in showers require 60 x 30 inch clear floor space. Grab bars, seats, and other accessibility features are also mandated.

Should I get a bigger shower?

Consider upgrading to a larger shower if your current shower feels cramped, allows water to escape, makes movement difficult, or cannot accommodate your needs. Even a few extra inches can improve shower ergonomics and enjoyment.

In Closing

The right shower dimensions can mean the difference between a soothing spa-like experience versus a cramped utilitarian one. Evaluate your unique bathroom space, budget, design tastes, and functional needs when choosing standard shower sizes. Aim for the most spacious sizing possible to allow relaxation and free movement. With strategic planning of shower layouts and features, even a modest bathroom can provide a luxurious shower that meets your family’s needs.

What to Know About Standard Shower Sizes