Introduction
Choosing the right shower for your bathroom is an important decision that requires careful consideration of your needs, preferences, and budget. With so many different types of showers on the market, it can be overwhelming trying to decide which is best for you. From luxurious rainfall showers to space-saving corner showers, there are numerous options when it comes to showers.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the different types of showers, their key features, pros and cons, and help you determine which shower is the best fit for your home. We will cover the most popular shower types:
- Walk-in showers
- Neo-angle showers
- Corner showers
- Inset showers
- Freestanding bathtub showers
- Rainfall showers
- Steam showers
- Shower panels
- Portable showers
- Digital/smart showers
For each shower type, we will look at critical factors like size, layout, style, features, cost, ease of installation and more. By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to confidently choose the ideal shower for your needs and budget. Let’s dive in!
Walk-in Showers
Walk-in showers are a great option for both remodeling projects and new construction bathrooms. As the name suggests, you simply walk right into the shower without needing to step over a tub edge.
Key Features
- Completely open access and barrier-free entry
- Spacious feel
- Tile, stone, or glass surround
- Either curbless or with a low threshold
- Multiple shower heads possible
- Customizable size and layout
Pros
- Great accessibility and safety
- Easy to clean without obstructions
- Contemporary, sleek look
- Fits multiple users at once
- Can integrate seating and benches
- Allows for unlimited design options
Cons
- More expensive than tub/shower combos
- Require bathroom renovation
- Potential for leaks if not properly installed
- Limited resale value in some markets
Walk-in showers can range from functional and basic to completely custom with features like body sprays, benches, and designer touches. Prices start around $2,500 and can exceed $15,000 for luxury installations.
Neo-Angle Showers
Neo-angle showers have an angled entryway rather than a straight opening, giving them a very distinct look. The angled design makes them ideal for small bathrooms.
Key Features
- Angled opening, usually around 30-45 degrees
- Glass enclosure
- Recessed shower niche
- Tile surround
- Single shower head
Pros
- Distinct style and aesthetic
- Angled entry expands interior space
- Fits smaller bathrooms well
- Easy to clean glass enclosure
- Budget-friendly option
Cons
- Limited space inside
- Restricts showerhead placement
- Not the most accessible option
- Glass requires frequent cleaning
Neo-angle shower stalls with glass doors cost $600-$1,500 on average. The angled design can make them a challenge for do-it-yourself installation.
Corner Showers
As the name implies, corner showers are installed into the corner of the bathroom. This layout maximizes floor space.
Key Features
- Triangular shape
- Two walls utilized
- Glass doors enclose interior
- Recessed shelves and niches
- Overhead shower head
Pros
- Great use of unused space
- Frees up floor area
- Distinctive triangular style
- Easy to keep clean
- Cost-effective option
Cons
- Limited elbow room inside
- Restricts showerhead placement
- Glass doors need frequent cleaning
- Not the most accessible design
- Difficult DIY installation
Pre-fabricated corner shower units cost around $800-$1,200. Custom tiled corner showers start at approximately $1,800.
Inset Showers
Inset or alcove showers feature three walls and are “set” into an alcove in the bathroom. This gives them a built-in look.
Key Features
- Three walls with decorative surround
- Glass door enclosure
- Recessed shelves and niches
- Overhead shower head
- Ceramic tile interior
Pros
- Streamlined built-in appearance
- Cost-effective pre-fab options
- Glass door contains splashes
- Fits smaller bathrooms well
- Easy to install
Cons
- Limited interior space
- Restricts showerhead placement
- Glass needs frequent cleaning
- Not the most accessible
Inset showers start around $500 for budget-friendly fiberglass models. Custom tiled alcove showers cost $2,500 or more.
Freestanding Bathtub Showers
Freestanding tubs with integrated showers give you the best of both worlds – a relaxing soak and a high-end shower.
Key Features
- Sophisticated standalone tub
- Handheld or wall-mount shower head
- Partial wet room design
- Minimal framed glass enclosure
- High-end finishes like stone resin
Pros
- Luxurious spa-like experience
- Flexible handheld shower head
- Easy accessibility and entry
- Distinctive contemporary style
- Focal point of bathroom
Cons
- Very expensive $4,000+
- Substantial water usage
- Requires extensive remodeling
- High maintenance
- Significant space requirements
Freestanding tub showers require major bathroom renovations but deliver an ultra-luxurious vibe.
Rainfall Showers
As the name suggests, rainfall showers mimic the experience of showering in the rain. The extra-large shower head delivers a gentle waterfall effect.
Key Features
- Oversized shower head 8-12 inches
- Adjustable head angles downwards
- Minimalist spa-like design
- Open and accessible entry
- Full drenching shower experience
Pros
- Relaxing soak-like feeling
- Excellent water coverage
- Contemporary style statement
- Customizable features like steam
- Easy to install shower head
Cons
- More expensive than standard heads
- Can feel uncomfortably heavy
- Potential for leaks if poorly installed
- May require plumbing modifications
- Limited adjustability
Rainfall shower systems cost $200-$600 depending on size, finishes, and features. Perfect for contemporary and spa-inspired bathrooms.
Steam Showers
Steam showers combine luxurious steam therapy with standard shower functionality for the ultimate relaxing experience.
Key Features
- Steam generator unit
- Waterproof LCD control panel
- Built-in seating
- Recessed lighting
- Tile, glass, or acrylic enclosure
Pros
- Improves respiratory health
- Hydrotherapy benefits
- Spa-like relaxation
- Sleek modern style
- Programmable settings
Cons
- Very expensive $3,500+
- Professional installation required
- Significant maintenance
- Major remodeling required
- Lots of space needed
Steam showers require extensive installation but deliver amazing therapeutic value and luxury.
Shower Panels
Shower panels feature multiple showerheads and body sprays for a complete drenching experience.
Key Features
- Vertical plumbing unit
- Multiple shower heads
- Body jets and sprays
- Programmable temperature/functions
- Minimalist style
Pros
- Immersive soaking experience
- Customizable sprays
- Reduced risk of leaks
- Sleek contemporary style
- Easy to install
Cons
- Expensive $1,000+
- Can feel overly complex
- Exposed plumbing aesthetics
- Potential temperature issues
- Limited configuration options
Shower panels cost over $1,000 but deliver an intense shower experience minus the custom build.
Portable Showers
Portable showers provide a flexible showering solution for camping, outdoor use, and travel.
Key Features
- Folding or inflatable design
- Water heater and pump
- hangs anywhere
- On-off foot pedal
- Carry bag included
Pros
- Fully portable and temporary
- Easy to set up and take down
- Affordable $100-$300
- Perfect for camping and travel
- Compact storage
Cons
- Limited water flow and pressure
- Requires external water hook-up
- Minimal functionality
- Temporary solution only
- Some models prone to leaks
Portable showers offer a useful flexibility but lack the comforts and performance of permanent showers.
Digital Showers
Digital showers allow you to digitally control and program temperature, flow, sound, and lighting for an immersive experience.
Key Features
- Waterproof digital control panel
- Customizable pre-sets
- App connectivity and voice control
- Ambient mood lighting
- Spa-like relaxation
Pros
- Ultimate programmable customization
- Digital convenience
- Cutting-edge technology integration
- Enhanced relaxation and ambiance
- Precision temperature control
Cons
- Very expensive $3,000+
- Complicated set-up
- Ongoing technical maintenance
- Technology prone to glitches
- Excessive for basic needs
Digital showers provide next-level computerized customization and control for an integrated experience.
How to Choose the Best Shower for Your Bathroom
With so many types of showers to consider, it can be challenging to determine which is right for your needs. Here are some key factors to evaluate as you choose your ideal shower:
Budget – Set realistic expectations based on what you can afford to invest. Some options like steam showers require extensive installation and remodeling.
Space – Carefully measure your bathroom and entryway dimensions. Larger walk-in showers may not be feasible for petite powder rooms.
Design Style – Match your shower style to your overall bathroom aesthetic – modern, traditional, minimalist, eclectic, etc.
Features – Consider must-have features like benches, niches, rainfall showerheads, body sprays, etc.
Accessibility – Assess your mobility and physical needs. Curbless showers rate highly for accessibility.
Users – Will this be a personal shower or shared family bath? Larger showers accommodate multiple people.
Maintenance – Glass doors require more frequent cleaning. Tile walls need periodic sealing. Factor in effort and upkeep.
Remodeling – For inset showers and custom builds, consider the demolition, plumbing, and construction required.
By carefully weighing these key criteria against your shower options, you can zero in on the best choice for your home and family.
Final Thoughts
The shower is one of the most important fixtures in any bathroom. With so many configurations to evaluate, it pays to thoroughly assess your needs, budget, and style preferences.
Fortunately, there are numerous excellent options ranging from neo-angle to rainfall showers. Take your time, visualize the end result, and invest in the shower your bathroom deserves.
With strategic planning and design, your new shower can provide an invigorating sensory experience, elevate your bathing ritual, and boost the overall value of your home. A customized shower made just for you not only improves daily function but also serves as a beautiful centerpiece of relaxation and renewal.