Choosing the right shower for your bathroom is more than just picking something that looks good. It affects your comfort, water usage, budget, and even the overall style of your space. Whether you’re doing a full renovation or just upgrading a few fixtures, this guide will help you understand the different types of showers, their pros and cons, and how to choose the best one for your home.
🛁 Why the Right Shower Matters
The shower is where your day starts (and sometimes ends). It should fit your lifestyle, match your bathroom design, and offer efficiency and comfort. A well-chosen shower can:
-
Increase property value
-
Reduce water and energy bills
-
Improve everyday convenience
-
Add a modern and stylish look
Let’s dive into your options and how to make the best decision.👇
🚿 Types of Showers: What Are Your Options?
1. Walk-In Showers
✅ Best for: Modern bathrooms, easy access
💡 Benefits:
-
Minimalist and sleek look
-
No door needed
-
Great for small or large bathrooms
-
Ideal for people with mobility issues
⚠️ Keep in mind: Requires good drainage and waterproofing
2. Shower Cabins / Shower Enclosures
✅ Best for: Bathrooms where water splashing needs to be contained
💡 Benefits:
-
Enclosed space with doors
-
Often comes with built-in jets or steam
-
Keeps the rest of the bathroom dry
⚠️ Keep in mind: May take up more space, and budget-friendly models can feel cramped
3. Shower-Tub Combos
✅ Best for: Families, small apartments
💡 Benefits:
-
Two-in-one functionality
-
Great for kids and people who love baths
-
Saves space
⚠️ Keep in mind: Less convenient for older adults or those with mobility issues
4. Corner Showers
✅ Best for: Small bathrooms
💡 Benefits:
-
Space-saving
-
Comes in square, curved, or neo-angle designs
-
Can include doors or be walk-in style
⚠️ Keep in mind: Limited space inside
5. Steam Showers
✅ Best for: Spa-lovers
💡 Benefits:
-
Offers steam function for relaxation
-
Great for skin and sinuses
-
Luxury feel
⚠️ Keep in mind: High installation cost and requires ventilation
💡 What to Consider When Choosing a Shower
✅ 1. Bathroom Size & Layout
-
Measure everything. Even an inch can make a difference.
-
In smaller bathrooms, corner or walk-in showers may work best.
✅ 2. Style & Aesthetics
-
Do you want a modern, classic, or industrial look?
-
Glass doors, matte black finishes, or chrome accents?
✅ 3. Water Pressure
-
Some showers, especially those with multiple jets, need strong pressure.
✅ 4. Budget
-
Basic walk-in: $300–$800
-
Shower cabin: $600–$2,000
-
Steam shower: $2,000–$6,000+
✅ 5. Ease of Cleaning
-
Frameless glass is easier to clean than framed.
-
Avoid too many small crevices.
✅ 6. Installation & Plumbing
-
Will you need to reroute pipes?
-
Are your current tiles waterproofed?
For homes in Chicago, we always recommend consulting a local remodeling expert like Easy Remodeling before choosing your shower.
🛠️ Materials Matter Too
-
Glass – Elegant and easy to clean
-
Acrylic – Affordable and lightweight
-
Tile – Offers custom design but needs proper sealing
-
Stone/Quartz Panels – Luxurious and durable
🧼 Bonus: Shower Features You’ll Love
Want to make your shower time amazing? Consider adding:
-
🚿 Rain showerheads
-
🎵 Built-in Bluetooth speakers
-
🌡️ Thermostatic mixers
-
💡 LED mood lighting
-
💨 Anti-fog mirrors or vents
💰 Cost Breakdown for Popular Options
| Shower Type | Average Installation Cost |
|---|---|
| Walk-In Shower | $1,200 – $3,500 |
| Shower Enclosure | $800 – $2,500 |
| Tub-Shower Combo | $900 – $2,000 |
| Steam Shower | $3,000 – $7,000 |
Prices vary based on materials, size, and plumbing work.
📍 Final Thoughts: Which Shower Should You Choose?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best shower for you depends on your space, your lifestyle, and your budget. Here’s a quick summary:
-
👉 Go for a walk-in shower if you want style and accessibility
-
👉 Choose a shower-tub combo if you need flexibility
-
👉 Invest in a steam shower for luxury and relaxation
-
👉 Use a corner enclosure to save space
Whatever you choose, make sure your new shower is professionally installed and properly waterproofed for long-term use.
