Standard Shower Size report
When designing a bathroom, it is crucial to calculate how much space you will need to allow for the shower. It is critical to design a comfortable and practical shower. The shower may be more important than you realize, and it will be one of the most relaxing moments of your day.
When taking a shower, you pay more attention to the shower's dimensions than you probably realize. Every time you turn around and bump your elbow, you might think about how your shower is too small. On the contrary, if you love taking long showers, it might be because you have enough room to be comfortable.
The shower area is the essential part of the bathroom; one important factor to consider is knowing the standard size of a shower. If you are unsure how much space you need, take a little spin in your shower space. The following post will introduce different shower sizes for reference.
Standard Shower Sizes
When upgrading or remodeling a new bathroom, the first thing you will need to consider is your overall room size and what standard shower sizes are available. With ADA accessibility requirements, a standard shower must be 36 x 36 inches. However, the International Residential Code allows for a shower size of 30 × 30 inches, primarily used in smaller bathrooms to conserve space. If space allows, a comfortable size for a shower is 48 × 36 inches. If your home has a little more space available, a very common recommendation is to have a shower with minimum dimensions of 60" x 36".
It is best first to decide whether or not you want a regular shower enclosure, walk-in, wet room, etc. For further reference, here are the most typical shower sizes and shapes:
| Common Type | Dimensions |
|---|---|
| Shower Stall | 42" x 36", 48" x 36", 60" x 36" |
| Square-shaped Shower | 32" x 32", 34" x 34", 36" x 36", 48" x 48" |
| Steam Shower | 36" x 36" x 84", 42" x 42" x 82", 54" x 35" x 89", 60" x 48" x 96" |
| Shower and tub combo | 32" x 48", 32" x 60", 36" x 48", 36" x 60" |
Shower Stall (Walk-in)
A stand-alone shower stall size usually varies based on the space allotted in the bathroom for the shower area. The standard size for a shower area without a tub is 48 x 36 inches. This type has a minimum space, giving you more room to move around. The most popular widths are 32", 36", 60", in that order, but the widths will differ.
Square-shaped Shower
The smallest and most compact shower unit measures 32 x 32 inches and can go up to 34 x 34 inches and 36 x 36 inches. These showers can be installed in the corners of your bathroom, and for a bathroom that doesn’t have enough space.
Steam Shower
Steam showers offer proven therapeutic benefits, including increased circulation and alleviated soreness. Steam showers can be custom-installed or purchased in prefabricated sizes. If you want to include steam; maximum ceiling height should be 8 feet. Some common steam shower dimensions (L x W x H) are: 36" x 36" x 84", 42" x 42" x 82", 54" x 35" x 89", 60" x 48" x 96", etc.
Shower/Bathtub Combination
The most common and typical standard size for a shower and tub combo is 60 x 30 x 72 inches. This option is incredibly functional and great for families since bathing young children in standalone showers can be difficult. Adding a frameless glass door can elevate the style of this common shower option.
Wet Room
A wet room is usually doorless and utilizes a floor drain instead of a shower pan. Wet rooms are highly customizable and can be very large in size. A wet room smaller than 36 x 48 inches is not recommended because the lack of a door will result in splashed water all over the bathroom.
How to Choose the Right Shower Size
To make the best decision for your bathroom and lifestyle, consider all your options before you choose the right shower size for you.
Consider Shower Placement
The type of shower you choose will depend on your space availability. For example, a walk-in shower will offer more flexibility with placement because of its customizable size and shape. Be sure to consider any accessibility improvements for people who may use the shower.
Measure the Space
Standard shower size measurements account for interior shower space only, so a shower installation should account for the total available space in the bathroom itself. Measurements should be exact so that no extra space is left during the building, or else mold and mildew can accumulate.
Find a Shower Installation Expert
A shower installation must be done correctly. A professional installation can help ensure that the correct measurements are made before the process begins. Finding local professionals to help with a shower addition or renovation can bring peace of mind and allow you to relax and enjoy the results.
