Everything You Need To Know about Bathroom Showers

Showering is part of our daily routine, but there’s more variety out there than you might expect. From sleek wall-mounted units to luxurious rainfall systems, modern showers have come a long way from the basic setups of the past.

In this guide, we’ll splash into everything you need to know about choosing the right shower. Let’s explore the 15 types of modern shower setups and discover the perfect fit for your space and lifestyle!

15 Types Of Showers For Your Bathroom

Modern bathrooms come with various shower styles, each offering unique features and benefits tailored to different needs.

Quick Overview of Shower Types

Shower Type	Key Features	Ideal For
Prefabricated Shower	Ready-made, quick install	Standard dimensions, budget options
Glass Enclosure	Transparent, spa-like feel	Small bathrooms, modern styles
Bathtub/Shower Combo	Combo bath & shower, space-saving	Families, small bathrooms
Custom Shower	Fully personalized, unique design	Unique spaces, luxury installations
Stand-Up Shower	Tub-less, compact design	Limited spaces, water conservation
Walk-In Shower	Barrier-free, curbless entry	Accessibility, minimalist designs
Shower Tower	Multi-outlet spa experience	Luxury bathrooms, wellness focus
Corner Shower	Fits into room corners	Small, space-saving bathrooms
Rectangular Shower	Classic, versatile layout	Main bathrooms, practical designs
Waterfall Shower	Rain-like water flow	Relaxation, spa bathrooms
Neo-Angle Shower	Angled design, compact setup	Unusual layouts, modern aesthetics
Steam Shower	Spa feature with steam	Wellness, luxury installations
Solar Shower	Eco-friendly, solar heated water	Outdoor showers, eco-conscious homes
Electric Shower	On-demand hot water	Limited water supply, budget setups
Digital Shower	Programmable, smart integration	Tech-savvy homes, luxury options

 

Prefabricated Shower

Prefabricated showers come as complete units manufactured off-site and installed as a whole. These ready-made showers offer convenience and quick installation.

Key Features:

• One-piece construction: Fewer seams means less potential for leaks
• Lower cost: Generally 30-50% cheaper than custom options
• Standardized sizes: Available to fit most common bathroom layouts

These showers are typically made from acrylic, fiberglass, or composite materials. They’re ideal for renovations with tight timelines or when working with standard bathroom dimensions.

The simpler designs make cleaning easier with fewer nooks and crannies where mold can develop. While customization options are limited compared to custom showers, many manufacturers now offer various colors, textures, and built-in features like shelves and seating.

 

Glass Enclosure Shower

Glass enclosure showers create a sophisticated, spa-like atmosphere while making bathrooms appear larger. These showers use glass panels to separate the shower area from the rest of the bathroom.

Options include:

• Frameless designs (minimal hardware, sleek appearance)
• Semi-frameless (some supporting hardware)
• Framed enclosures (complete metal framework)

Frameless versions offer the cleanest look but cost more due to the thicker glass required. Most glass enclosures use tempered safety glass that breaks into small pieces rather than dangerous shards if damaged.

The transparency creates an illusion of more space, making these showers perfect for smaller bathrooms. Maintenance requires regular cleaning to prevent water spots and soap scum buildup.

Many homeowners choose clear glass, but frosted, textured, or even tinted options provide more privacy. Current trends favor minimalist hardware in brushed nickel, matte black, or aged bronze finishes.

 

Bathtub/Shower Combo

The bathtub/shower combination remains one of the most practical and space-efficient options for many homes. This versatile fixture offers the relaxation of a bath and the convenience of a shower in one unit.

Popular Combo Styles:

• Alcove (three-wall) installations
• Corner units
• Freestanding tubs with shower attachments
• Drop-in tubs with shower surrounds

These combos are particularly valuable in homes with children or elderly residents who may prefer bathing options. They’re also excellent for smaller bathrooms where separate fixtures wouldn’t fit.

Most modern combinations include features like built-in shelving, grab bars, and curved shower rods that create more showering space. When choosing a combo, consider the height of the tub walls—lower sides make entry easier but contain less water.

Material options include acrylic, fiberglass, porcelain-enameled steel, and cast iron. The latter provides superior heat retention for bathing but adds significant weight to the installation.

 

Custom Shower

Custom showers are tailored specifically to your bathroom space and personal preferences. These bespoke installations allow you to choose every element—from the shape and size to fixtures and materials.

Benefits of Custom Showers:

• Perfect fit for unusual spaces
• Personalized features and appearance
• Higher property value
• Ability to address specific needs or accessibility concerns

Most homeowners work with bathroom designers to create these showers, incorporating elements like multiple showerheads, built-in seating, and custom tile work. While they’re typically more expensive than pre-made options, the result is a shower that perfectly matches your vision.

The installation process usually takes longer, often 1-2 weeks, compared to prefabricated options. However, the wait is worthwhile for those seeking a truly unique bathroom centerpiece.

 

Stand-Up Shower

Stand-up showers focus solely on showering in a compact, efficient space. These vertical enclosures eliminate the tub component, creating a dedicated shower area.

Advantages of Stand-Up Showers:

• Space efficiency (typically 9-12 square feet)
• Easier accessibility with low or no threshold
• Reduced water usage compared to baths
• Simplified cleaning and maintenance

Most stand-up showers feature a base or pan, walls, and a door or curtain. Standard dimensions range from 32×32 inches to 36×48 inches, though custom sizes are available.

For those with mobility concerns, stand-up showers offer safer entry and exit than climbing over a tub wall. Many include grab bars, built-in seating, and non-slip flooring for additional safety.

Water conservation is another benefit, as showers typically use 10-25 gallons compared to 30-50 gallons for a bath. This design works particularly well in guest bathrooms, powder rooms being converted to full baths, or as secondary showers.

 

Walk-In Shower

Walk-in showers eliminate barriers with their open, accessible design. These doorless or minimal-threshold enclosures create a seamless bathroom experience.

The defining feature is easy entry—either completely curbless or with a very low threshold (usually under 2 inches). This design originally focused on accessibility but has become popular for its contemporary aesthetic.

Design Considerations:

• Proper floor slope (1/4 inch per foot minimum)
• Strategic placement of showerheads to prevent water spray
• Water containment solutions (partial walls, glass panels)
• Non-slip flooring materials

A properly designed walk-in requires careful waterproofing and drainage planning. The floor must slope toward the drain while remaining safe to stand on.

These showers work beautifully in modern, minimalist bathrooms. They’re especially valuable for aging-in-place renovations and universal design. Many homeowners appreciate the luxurious feel of a more spacious shower area without doors to clean or hardware to maintain.

 

Shower Towers

Shower towers create a spa-like experience with multiple water outlets integrated into a single unit. These vertical panels combine various shower functions into one impressive fixture.

Typical Components:

• Overhead rainfall showerhead
• Handheld shower wand
• Body jets (usually 4-8)
• Temperature and flow controls
• Optional features (steam, lighting, music)

Installation can be surface-mounted or recessed into the wall. Most towers connect to standard plumbing, though models with numerous jets may require upgraded water supplies to maintain pressure.

 

Corner Shower

Corner showers maximize space efficiency in smaller bathrooms by fitting neatly into otherwise unused corner areas. These triangular or quarter-circle designs make excellent use of limited square footage.

Most corner showers feature glass doors that create an open, airy feeling even in compact spaces. They typically require less installation space than traditional options—usually 32-36 inches per side.

Benefits of Corner Showers:

• Space-saving design
• Visually enlarges small bathrooms
• Usually less expensive than larger shower types
• Works well in guest bathrooms or powder rooms

Installation costs typically range from $700-$1,500 depending on materials and features. Higher-end models may include built-in shelving, multiple showerheads, or custom glass treatments.

 

Rectangular Shower

Rectangular showers are the most common shower type, offering versatility and generous bathing space. These classic designs can be customized to fit almost any bathroom layout.

Standard rectangular showers typically measure 36″ × 48″ or 36″ × 60″, though custom sizes are readily available. They can be installed with a curb or as curbless walk-in showers for accessibility.

These showers accommodate various door styles including pivot, sliding, or frameless glass. Many homeowners choose rectangular showers for their main bathrooms due to their practicality and timeless appeal.

 

Waterfall Shower

Waterfall showers create a spa-like experience with wide, flat showerheads that mimic falling water in nature. The water cascades in a sheet rather than individual streams, providing a gentle, immersive sensation.

These luxurious fixtures often feature multiple water flow patterns. Some high-end models combine waterfall features with traditional sprays for a customizable shower experience.

Key features:

• Wide showerhead (often 8-12 inches)
• Gentle water pressure distribution
• Rainwater simulation
• Often ceiling-mounted

Installation requires proper water pressure and sometimes reinforced ceiling supports. Many waterfall showers incorporate LED lighting that changes color based on water temperature. This adds both safety and ambiance to your shower experience.

 

Neo-Angle Shower

Neo-angle showers feature a distinctive five-sided design with a diamond-shaped entry. They typically fit into corners while providing more interior space than standard corner showers.

The angled entrance creates an interesting visual focal point in your bathroom. Most neo-angle models use three glass panels—one for the door and two angled side panels.

Common dimensions:

• 36″ × 36″
• 42″ × 42″
• 48″ × 48″

These showers work particularly well in bathrooms with unusual layouts or where door clearance is a concern. The angled door opens without requiring space directly in front of the shower.

Neo-angle showers typically cost between $1,000-$2,500 for prefabricated units. Custom glass enclosures may run $2,000-$4,000 depending on glass thickness, treatments, and hardware quality.

 

Steam Shower

Steam showers combine traditional shower functions with steam generation capabilities. They create a personal spa experience with therapeutic benefits including improved circulation and respiratory health.

These enclosed units are completely sealed to contain steam. They require special vapor barriers, waterproofing, and ceiling design to prevent moisture damage.

Health benefits of steam showers:

• Opens pores and cleanses skin
• Relieves muscle tension
• May reduce stress and improve sleep
• Helps alleviate congestion and sinus issues

Most steam showers include built-in seating, ambient lighting, and aromatherapy options. Digital controls allow precise temperature and duration settings.

 

Solar Shower

Solar showers harness the sun’s energy to heat water, making them environmentally friendly and cost-effective. They’re particularly suitable for homes in sunny climates or as supplementary outdoor shower options.

The basic design includes a water reservoir with a dark-colored backing that absorbs solar heat. More sophisticated systems may integrate with home plumbing and include temperature regulation.

Types of solar showers:

Type	Description	Typical Capacity
Portable	Hang-up bags with shower heads	3-5 gallons
Fixed outdoor	Permanent installation with solar collector	5-10+ gallons
Integrated systems	Connected to home plumbing with solar heating	Unlimited

Most residential solar showers heat water to 95-110°F on sunny days. These eco-friendly options can reduce water heating costs significantly over time. Many models now include mixing valves to prevent scalding from overheated water.

 

Electric Shower

Electric showers heat water on demand rather than using pre-heated water from a tank. They’re popular in regions with limited hot water supply or as secondary bathroom options.

These units connect directly to the cold water supply and use heating elements to warm water instantly. Most models offer multiple heat settings and water flow adjustments.

Advantages of electric showers:

• Immediate hot water without waiting
• Energy efficient (only heats water being used)
• Works independently of your home’s water heater
• Usually less expensive to install than plumbed systems

Power requirements typically range from 7-10.5kW, with higher-powered units delivering stronger water flow. Electric showers require dedicated electrical circuits and professional installation. They’re ideal for guest bathrooms or homes where hot water capacity is limited.

 

Digital & Smart Showers

Digital showers represent the cutting edge of bathroom technology, offering precise temperature control and programmable settings. They separate the mixer unit from the control panel for a cleaner look.

Smart models take this further by connecting to home automation systems and smartphone apps. Users can start their shower remotely, customize water temperature, and even save preferred settings for different family members.

Advanced features include:

• Voice activation compatibility with Alexa or Google Home
• Water usage tracking and conservation features
• Custom lighting effects and music streaming
• Programmable shower sequences

Most digital systems maintain temperature within ±1°F of your setting, eliminating sudden hot or cold fluctuations. While more expensive than traditional fixtures, digital showers offer unparalleled convenience and customization. They’re particularly valuable for multi-user households where everyone prefers different shower settings.

 

How To Choose A Shower Type

Your decision should balance practical needs with aesthetic preferences and budget constraints.

Space is one of the most important considerations when choosing a shower. Measure your bathroom carefully to determine what will fit comfortably.

Budget considerations are also crucial, as prices vary significantly between basic models and luxury options with advanced features.

Water pressure in your home will determine which shower types will function effectively. Low pressure homes may require specific shower models designed for such conditions.

Think about who will be using the shower regularly. Households with elderly members or those with mobility issues might benefit from walk-in showers or models with accessibility features.

Here’s a comparison of shower types based on common needs:

Need	Recommended Type	Key Benefit
Small space	Corner shower	Space-efficient
Luxury experience	Rain shower	Full-body coverage
Accessibility	Walk-in shower	No barriers to entry
Family with children	Combination tub/shower	Versatility
Water conservation	Low-flow shower	Eco-friendly

Consider these questions when making your decision:

• How much daily use will the shower receive?
• Do you prefer standing showers or the option to bathe?
• What is your preferred cleaning routine?

Installation requirements vary between shower types. Some might need professional installation, while others could be DIY-friendly for those with basic plumbing knowledge.

 

Consider Leelongs Shower Product Offerings

Leelongs offers an extensive range of premium shower solutions designed to transform your bathroom into a sanctuary of comfort and style.

Our team is ready to assist with:

• Product specifications
• Bulk ordering
• Customization options
• Technical support

Join the growing number of satisfied partners who trust Leelongs for premium shower solutions. Let’s create exceptional bathroom experiences together!

Contact our team today to discuss your shower product needs and discover the Leelongs difference.