
There are several walk in shower seat options available, including wall-mounted, fold-down, and freestanding models. These seats can be made of various materials, such as plastic, wood, or stainless steel.
For a secure and stable installation, it's essential to choose the right type of seat for your walk-in shower. According to our article, wall-mounted seats are a popular choice, as they can be easily installed and provide a sleek, minimalist look.
Wall-mounted seats can be installed at a height that suits your needs, typically between 24 and 30 inches above the shower floor. This allows for comfortable seating and easy access.
Some walk-in shower seats also come with additional features, such as built-in grab bars or non-slip surfaces. These features can enhance safety and provide extra support for users.
Types of Walk-in Shower Seats
One of the most common and beautiful styles of shower seating is tiled bench seating, where tiles are used to create a bench that matches the shower walls or stands out with a complementing tile.
You can also use a portable stool, such as a waterproof plastic or resin stool, or a more aesthetic option like a teak stool, if you don't want to add a built-in seat.
Floating seating is a great option for a minimal style shower bench, where a thick slab of material like marble or a wooden bench like bamboo is built into the wall with an open bottom for extra storage and foot room.
Here are some types of walk-in shower seats:
- Tiled bench seating
- Portable stools (waterproof or wooden)
- Molded seats (part of molded shower walls)
- Floating seating
- Shower chairs (specifically designed for elderly or disabled individuals)
- Window shower seating (tiled bench as part of a window)
Portable Stools
Portable stools are a great option for walk-in shower seats. They're easy to move in and out of the shower as needed, and can be a good choice for people who don't want to commit to a permanent seat.
You can choose from a variety of materials, such as teak, bamboo, plastic, and resin, which are all moisture-resistant and can withstand years of showers. These materials are durable and can be a good choice for people who want a low-maintenance option.
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A portable stool can also serve as a convenient catchall for necessities in the shower, such as soap, shampoo, and loofahs. This can help keep the shower floor clear and make it easier to clean.
Here are some popular types of portable stools for walk-in showers:
Overall, portable stools are a great option for people who want a flexible and convenient walk-in shower seat.
Corner
Corner seats are a great space-saving option in walk-in showers. They're perfect for small showers where every inch counts.
You can choose a corner seat that fits your style, like a marble seat that creates a custom look. This type of seat gives you the convenience of a place to sit without taking up too much valuable space.
A corner bench can be tucked into a corner and is less likely to be in the way when standing or walking in and out. This is especially useful in small showers.
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Corner benches and seats are great for saving space in the shower. They're especially useful in small showers as they can be tucked into a corner.
A corner seat can provide plenty of room to sit without stealing too much standing room. This is ideal for tight quarters.
You can choose a corner for your walk-in shower seat, like a tiny corner bench that provides plenty of utility. Adding a contrasting seat to the base helps the bench show up against the walls.
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Walk-in
Walk-in shower seats are a fantastic way to make your bathroom more functional and comfortable. A light-colored shower base can complement decorative tile flooring.
You can choose from various types of walk-in shower seats, including tiled bench seating, which is a common and beautiful style. Many people use the same tiles as on the shower walls, but others use a complementing tile to make the bench stand out.
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Tiled bench seating can be a great option, but if you don't have a shower seat built into your shower, you can use a portable stool instead. Choose a waterproof stool like plastic or resin for durability.
Portable stools, like those made of teak, can add a decorative touch to your shower. Teak is a good option because it stands up well to moisture, but it requires regular oiling and conditioning to maintain its condition.
Molded seats are another option, often part of molded shower walls. These are ideal for people who plan to age-in-place and want to retrofit their shower for their future needs.
Here are some popular types of walk-in shower seats:
- Tiled bench seating
- Portable stools
- Molded seats
- Floating seating
- Shower chairs
- Window shower seating
Floating seating is a great option if you want to add a minimal style shower bench to your tiled shower walls. It has an open bottom for extra storage and foot room.
Shower chairs are designed for people with extra needs, and they come in various sizes, shapes, and colors. You can choose from chairs with and without backs, and in different heights and disabilities.
Window shower seating is a stylish option that combines a tiled bench with a window along the wall. It's a great way to add natural light and a decorative touch to your shower.
On a similar theme: How to Clean a Walk in Tiled Shower
Design and Materials
You can incorporate your favorite color or material into a custom walk-in shower seat, such as using wood-look tiles that harmonize with the rest of the shower.
Teak is a popular choice for shower seats and benches because it's durable, strong, and naturally water resistant. Regularly applying teak oil can help maintain its appearance.
Acrylic/plastic benches and seats are durable, won't absorb water, and are easy to clean. They often have rounded corners for added safety.
Repeating materials in your shower seating can tie the bathroom together, creating a cohesive look. This is achieved by using the same material for the bench as for other elements in the bathroom, such as a wood stool echoing the finish on the wood-paneled ceiling and vanity shelf.
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Materials
Marble is a popular choice for walk-in shower seats, as seen in Examples 1 and 7, where it adds a touch of elegance to the space. It can be paired with other materials to create a unique look.
Teak is a durable and water-resistant wood option for shower seats and benches, as mentioned in Example 10. It requires regular maintenance with teak oil to keep it looking its best.
Bamboo is another water-resistant wood option that's budget-friendly, but not as durable as teak, as noted in Example 10. Regular maintenance with mineral oil can help extend its lifespan.
Acrylic or plastic benches and seats are a great option for those who want a low-maintenance and easy-to-clean solution, as seen in Example 10. They're also durable and won't absorb water.
Repeating materials in your shower seating can create a cohesive look, as demonstrated in Example 11, where a wood stool echoes the finish on the wood-paneled ceiling and vanity shelf.
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Custom
Custom shower seats can be manufactured in any size and configuration, available with or without legs, in padded or phenolic seat.
You can choose from a variety of custom options, including fold-up seats with legs or wall brackets.
Custom shower seats are available in different materials, such as padded or phenolic seat.
The dimensions of custom shower seats are measured in Width and Depth, with outside dimensions (or rough-in dimensions) listed.
When standing in front of the shower, the Width dimension is from Left to Right, and the Depth is from the Front of the threshold to the Back stud.
Custom shower seats can be designed to accommodate difficult remodels, with custom drain locations available for some products.
Enclosure
The enclosure of a small walk-in shower is a crucial aspect of its design. A fold-down seat made of teak is a great option as it folds up to the wall when not in use, preserving space in the shower.
This type of seat is perfect for someone who needs support in the shower without requiring a full shower seat. It's also a good idea to include chrome safety rails to prevent falls.
A large footprint is not a requirement for a stylish walk-in shower. In fact, a simple style can be achieved with a high window that offers beautiful natural light.
The use of wall tile that resembles wood paneling can add a nice touch to the shower enclosure.
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Accessibility and Features
Adding a walk-in shower seat can make a huge difference in your bathroom's accessibility and safety. Consider choosing an ADA-compliant design for a guarantee of safety and the hardware needed for secure installation.
Having a shower seat within arm's reach of controls and handheld sprays is crucial for easy management of both systems while seated. This is especially important in walk-in showers where operations are placed on one wall for easy access by seated bathers.
For older people or those with balance or stability concerns, using a bench or seat can be a smart way to use the shower more safely, reducing the chance of slipping and giving peace of mind.
Two Person
For a two-person shower setup, consider placing the shower seat in the middle of the connecting wall. This allows easy access from both sides.
Dual showerheads on opposite walls work well with a centered seat, creating a convenient seating and storage area.
The teak bench mentioned in the example is a great space-saver, holding towels, sponges, and toiletries between two windows.
By placing the seating and storage area equidistant between the showerheads, you can enjoy a comfortable and functional shower experience.
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Accessible
An ADA-compliant shower seat design comes with a guarantee of safety and includes all the hardware needed for secure installation.
Having a walk-in shower seat can improve safety and comfort, especially for older people who are worried about balance or stability.
Positioning a walk-in shower seat within arm's reach of controls and handheld sprays allows for easy management of both systems while seated.
Folding bathtub seats can be a great addition to your accessible bathroom, improving safety and comfort.
A curved bench design in a walk-in shower can provide a more spacious seat and deeper corner for users to sit comfortably.
Using a bench or seat in a walk-in shower can reduce the chance of slipping and give peace of mind to users.
Shower benches and seats can be used as a place to set things, store items, or even hang towels or wash rags.
Barrier Free Living offers folding ADA shower seats, which are beneficial accessories to your ADA handicap accessible shower.
Folding shower seats can be a cost-effective way to improve the function inside a walk-in shower.
For another approach, see: Walk in Shower Wheelchair Accessible
Considerations and Ideas
Placing a shower seat within arm's length of the shower fixtures and across from the shower head is ideal. This allows for easy access and comfort while showering.
If you have a bathtub, make sure to measure the bottom of the tub apart from the angled sides to find a shower chair that fits safely.
Walk-in showers can be drafty, so it's essential to consider this when designing your shower space. Not having a shower curtain can result in water splashes in unwanted areas.
Here are some types of walk-in shower seats to consider:
Ideas and Inspiration
When considering a shower seat, think about the space you have available. A corner shower seat is ideal for saving space in tight quarters.
A corner bench can provide plenty of utility in a midsize shower, and adding a contrasting seat can help it show up against the surrounding tiles.
If you have a small shower stall, consider a corner floating seat to create a custom look and save space. This type of seat is perfect for small spaces.

Ceramic garden stools can be used as freestanding shower seats, and they're made of durable, water-safe material. They're a great option for small spaces and can add a decorative touch to your shower.
To make the most of your shower seat, try to place it within arm's length of the shower fixtures and across from the shower head. This will make it easy to use and access.
Adding a shower seat can also serve as a decorative element in your shower. Consider covering your bench in the same material as the rest of the shower to create a cohesive look.
Chair vs Bathtub Size
Measuring the size of your bathtub is crucial when choosing a shower chair. Make sure to measure the bottom of the tub apart from the angled sides.
If you need a shower chair that fits in your tub, consider the chair legs needing to fit on the flat part of the tub for safety.
Shower chair sizes vary, but measuring your tub will help you find the right fit.
Disadvantages of Showers
Walk-in showers can be drafty, allowing cold air to circulate and making the space feel chilly.
Not having a shower curtain can result in water splashes in unwanted areas from walk-in showers that don't include glass panels or optional glass doors.
Pooled extra water can make walk-in showers slippery, increasing the risk of falls.
A walk-in shower without proper drainage can lead to water accumulation, creating a hazardous environment.
It's essential to weigh the pros and cons before deciding on a walk-in shower, considering factors like ventilation and safety features.
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Installation Types
If you're looking to install a shower seat or bench, you have two main options: wall mount or freestanding.
Wall mount shower seats and benches can be installed into a shower wall and often fold flat to save space. Many models can hold up to 400lbs when properly installed.
Freestanding shower seats and benches are independent pieces that can be easily moved around as needed, making them a great choice for all types of showers.
Comparison and Information
Walk-in shower seats are a game-changer for people with mobility issues or those who simply want to make bathing easier and safer.
The height of a walk-in shower seat is crucial, and most seats have a height range of 15 to 19 inches to accommodate different user needs.
For users with limited mobility, a shower seat with a backrest is often necessary for support and balance.
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Cost Amount
When you're considering purchasing a shower chair, one of the first things you might think about is the cost. Shower chairs can range in price from around $25 to $300.
The cost of a shower chair can vary greatly depending on the type you choose. Decorative shower chairs tend to be on the lower end of the price spectrum.
Some shower chairs are medical grade and may be more expensive due to the added features and durability they offer. These chairs can cost upwards of $200.
The price of a shower chair can also depend on the brand and quality of the product. Some brands may charge more for their shower chairs than others.
Ultimately, the cost of a shower chair will depend on your specific needs and budget.
vs.

A walk-in shower and a step-in shower are two distinct types of showers with different designs and accessibility features.
A true walk-in shower is perfectly level with the floor, making it seamless in design and accessible for those with mobility concerns.
The main difference between the two is the presence of a curb in step-in showers, which must be stepped over to enter, and may be raised above floor level, making it less accessible.
Step-in showers often come from shower kits and have a raised curb, requiring a step to enter, whereas walk-in showers are designed with accessibility in mind.
In contrast, walk-in showers have no barriers to entry, allowing for easy and safe access for individuals with mobility issues.
The design of a walk-in shower makes it an ideal choice for people who value ease of use and accessibility in their bathroom.
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