Comparative review: bath or shower - which is better?

A shower cabin can be installed in a small room

The cabin occupies half the space of a bathtub.
If there is not enough space in the room for a washing machine, the product will help free up enough space for it. Open showers consist of a small tray and partition, and can also be supplemented with glass doors or a curtain. Closed products are a volumetric capsule with sealed doors and are installed in any place where water pipes can reach. In both cases, the shower cabin occupies space vertically rather than horizontally, so it is the best option for a small bathroom. In Khrushchev, where the size of the bathroom on average does not exceed 4 square meters, you can get by with a shortened sit-down bathtub, but it will not look as aesthetically pleasing as a shower stall.

Occupied space

Tiny bathrooms, alas, still remain the main problem of our apartments. But we use this room not only for washing, so we also want to place here a washing machine, a basket for dirty laundry, and all kinds of shelves and cabinets for storing everything we need. Do you really have to give up something? Give up the bathtub in favor of a shower stall, and then even in a modest-sized bathroom, there will probably be room for all of the above.

Moreover, for a bathtub in which you can relax with your legs stretched out, there are often simply not enough meters: the owners of such “doll” apartments, as a rule, have to be content with a medium-sized bowl, where they will no longer be able to lie down. If the architects, when creating the project, thought about anything but the comfort of future residents, as a result of which the bathroom turned out to be long but narrow, a shower stall becomes the only acceptable solution.

A walk-in shower is typically touted as a great space-saving option, and in principle it is. However, before making a final decision, we strongly recommend that you visit a plumbing store and take a closer look at the shower stalls. It will be good if, having received the consent of the sellers, you even stand in the cabin that you intend to purchase. With a high probability, you will find that a modest-sized cabin is not very comfortable for you, and a spacious one is already so large that the coveted space saving becomes illusory.

In addition, do not forget that the height of the shower stall is at least two meters. Being placed in the bathroom of a typical apartment, where the ceilings are usually quite low, it will create a feeling of crampedness, even if it occupies a small area.

Let's also remember about such wealth as shampoos, shower gels, scrubs, masks, creams... I want all this (or almost all) to be at hand while washing. You can hang more than one shelf above the bathtub, and there can be a lot of jars and tubes on the sides of the bathtub itself. In the shower stall, of course, you can also hang shelves, but, firstly, they will “eat up” a lot of space in an already cramped stall, and secondly, be prepared for the fact that due to the cramped space you will regularly hit something and drop it.

Good food for thought...

Bathroom is easier to care for

The walls of the shower stall must be wiped dry after each use: splashes remain on the glass partitions, which turn into plaque and worsen the appearance of the product. In addition, a shower cabin with additional functions (radio, lighting and hydromassage) is more difficult to repair. The bath tank does not require such careful maintenance. Regular soap and a soft sponge are suitable for this.

Caring for the curtain will also not cause difficulties: to avoid the occurrence of fungus, it must be straightened after finishing the water procedures. Many modern materials are designed to be machine washed.

Equipped with additional functions

In terms of functionality, the bathtub cannot be compared with a modern shower cabin. The first is just a snow-white container without any frills, while the second looks a little like a spaceship. Using the buttons on the shower cabin control panel, you can adjust the water temperature, its pressure and delivery method.

Smart sensors will give the command to dispense a portion of liquid soap as soon as you raise your hand to the dispenser. Manufacturers have even taken care of those who like to sing while standing under elastic streams of water: waterproof speakers will fill the shower stall with pleasant music. Some showers can easily be turned into a real sauna - they are decorated with special heat-insulating materials, equipped with steam generators and equipped with control systems.

Of course, the more additional functions a shower cabin is equipped with, the higher its cost. But you will go to any lengths to feel like the lord of water.

Shower stall suitable for irregularly shaped room

If you have a bathroom with sloping corners, it is cheaper to order a shower stall than to look for a specially shaped tank. This corner can be turned into an asset by decorating it with mosaics or picturesque tiles, thereby creating an interesting and stylish interior.

If, after masking the pipes, a niche appears in the combined bathroom, a good option would be to install a shower stall that will harmoniously fit into the free space.

Assembling and installing a shower cabin is no more difficult than installing a bathtub, and sometimes much simpler. This depends on the dimensions of the structure and the number of parts.

Some installation tips

If someone decides to wash in the shower, it’s worth remembering some subtleties when installing it:

• Firstly, the booth must be installed strictly according to the manufacturer’s instructions!
• Secondly, install electricity, water and sewerage before installing the shower structure. In this case, the sewer outlet should not be higher than 70 millimeters from the floor, otherwise you will have to make a podium for the pallet.
• Thirdly, you need to wait at least a day for the sealant applied to the joints of all elements to dry.

Water procedures also fall under the rules dictated by the rapid pace of modernity. In the store you can now easily find a ready-made monolithic block, although you can buy all the components separately and invite specialists. Or you can take the installation into your own hands and ultimately please your loved ones with your individual style and your own design project.

It's easier to relax and warm up in the bath

One of the main advantages of the bowl is the ability to create your own spa in the bathroom. The shower cabin will not give you a feeling of comfort, even if you heat it up to the state of a bath. It’s nice to lie in a bubble bath, relax and take a break from everyday worries. Many apartment owners are not ready to exchange a bath for a shower precisely for this reason; moreover, the cabin often evokes associations with a public place, for example, a fitness club.

Water with added oils, salt or herbs can relieve joint pain, help get rid of various skin diseases, and also help restore strength after illness. The bath is a great place to spend some romantic time with your loved one. There are also baths with built-in hydromassage: directed jets of water, beating under strong pressure, have a beneficial effect on blood circulation and increase vitality.

Experts advise

It is worth listening to the opinion of Areg Samvelyan. For more than 15 years, he has been running an architectural and construction company that is actively involved in the design, construction, reconstruction and major repairs of various types of real estate. The engineer is confident that in addition to aesthetic preferences, when choosing a fence, it is also necessary to take into account technical issues, so that subsequently the shower will bring joy and pleasure, and not suffering. And this feeling can arise if the connection is incorrect.

According to the interior designer, before choosing a successful shower enclosure, it is necessary to clarify the area that is maximally available for it, and provide the data to plumbing distributors. They will quickly and well guide you through the appropriate models. The main thing is to remember to leave room to open the doors freely. It is advisable to immediately think about how to place a hanger or heated towel rail nearby.

As the designer notes, today customers often prefer shower stalls not from the store, but assembled in-house. A special mosaic tray is made for them, and the sides and slope for water outlet are not forgotten. Glass doors are purchased separately. This, in principle, looks more aesthetically pleasing, and this option will last longer, since the doors are fixed with hinges and do not move along guides.

The shower cabin does not hide space

Here we are talking about a laconic design with glass partitions, transparent doors and a drain in the floor. It is chosen by modern dynamic people who are not used to spending a lot of time on themselves. The freed up space that the bathroom could occupy can be used not only for a washing machine, but also for a drying machine. The shower cabin looks airy, stylish and expensive, fitting perfectly into the minimalist style.

Doors receive special attention

Continuing the topic of doors, it is worth emphasizing that in shower enclosures they can be hinged or sliding, which are now a priority, because hinged ones require more space. To save it, you still need to choose options that open inward.

As for sliding doors on magnetic tape made of rubber, the more leaves, the stronger the frame will be. But they will also take their place in the shower enclosure. In general, similar models come with two, three, four and six doors.

Shower doors are made either from safe and more expensive tempered glass, or from budget plastic (polystyrene). The first option wins in many respects, for example, water and dirt do not linger on such doors, and they do not fade for a long time. They are also good to wash. On sale you can find doors with transparent, rough and frosted glass. A huge advantage in case it breaks is the windshield effect. Shards with a smooth surface will not allow anyone to be injured.

If the glass option doesn’t work out for the money, then plastic doors will be your insurance, the appearance of which, unfortunately, loses its attractiveness over time. One piece of advice: to prevent stains from being too noticeable on the plastic, it is better to purchase matte doors or opaque ones with a pattern.

The bath is comfortable for children, but not for the elderly

A bath is a useful thing for a family with a baby. Evening water treatments are an important ritual before bedtime. They provide hardening to the child, bring pleasure, help develop and cleanse the skin. It is much more convenient to bathe a baby in a large tank.

On the other hand, if the home is occupied by disabled or elderly people, the bathtub can become a source of danger. The risk of slipping is increased, it is inconvenient to step over the high side, and hot water is contraindicated for hypertension and varicose veins.

To balance the safety pros and cons of showers and bathtubs, choose a tank with a low or opening side, a non-slip surface, and comfortable grab bars.

What is better to choose for your bathroom?

Having summarized data from forums and social networks where this issue is actively discussed, we can highlight the following points.

If the family is not too inclined to soak in the bathroom, it is better to use a shower cabin, which allows you not only to save space, but also to significantly reduce water costs.

Fans of an invigorating sauna should pay attention to special models of shower cabins that successfully imitate the temperature and humidity conditions of Turkish baths

If there are elderly people or chronically ill people in the family who find it difficult to use the bathtub, it is better to prefer a shower with seats. And for those who like to relax in a sauna, manufacturers offer a universal option - a shower with a sauna. We recommend that you familiarize yourself with the selection criteria for such models.

Families with small children, as well as pet owners, are advised to install a comfortable bathtub.

When choosing, it is better to give preference to products from reputable companies. In economical models, after several years of use, the doors often dry out, which reduces the tightness of the products.

The shower cabin saves water. Or not?

It is believed that taking a shower is more economical than running a bath. But if a person washes for longer than 15–20 minutes, the water consumption becomes approximately the same. To test this statement, just plug the cup with a stopper and watch how quickly it fills.

In private and wooden houses where there is a problem of water shortage, the cabin is the best option. The design can be made independently using a pump, two barrels and a water heater. In addition, in houses with wooden floors, the cabin is considered the safest option, since it does not require reinforcement of the floor, unlike a heavy bathtub.

Bath or shower? There is an alternative

We previously mentioned the different shapes and types of shower trays. Depending on their depth (standard shower trays are from 5 to 15 cm deep - the height from the bottom of the shower tray to the top edge), you can choose a solution that will be a compromise between shower and bath.

We are talking about deep shower trays with a depth of up to 30 cm. Of course, they will not provide such comfort when bathing as a bath, but such a solution will be convenient for families with children. A deep shower tray with a seat can replace a bathtub and allow children to bathe while the shower design is more comfortable for older people.

Another solution is to install a shower set in the bath and, for example, shower curtains. Or, which is much more aesthetically pleasing, more convenient and durable - install bath curtains.

Such screens are attached to profiles drilled into the wall. Today on the market there are one-, two- and even five-component screens - sliding or folding like an accordion. The most popular are those made of transparent plastic. Some companies offer custom-made bath curtains (usually acrylic or polystyrene) or tempered glass.

The bath is more practical

In modern realities, many are faced with the problem of turning off water. It is the bath that allows you to stock up on enough water without using buckets, bottles and basins. You can soak clothes and wash delicate items in the bathtub. Also, the bathtub is always equipped with a shower head, so the home owner has a choice - to quickly rinse off or comfortably soak in warm water. If you only need to wash your hair, it is more convenient to do it under the tap, leaning over the bathtub, rather than under the shower.

According to pet owners, it is more convenient to wash their pets in the bathtub, especially large dogs.

Video description

The video provides arguments in favor of choosing soul blocks:
Like any medal, this choice has its downside. If something is done incorrectly from a technical point of view, there is a risk of flooding the room. When this happens in a private home, leaks cause mold to appear. When this happens in an apartment building, leaks also become a reason for conflicts with neighbors. What is not good. Therefore, bathroom equipment should be done by professionals who have experience in carrying out such renovation work.

Only a correctly installed shower block will allow you to enjoy all the benefits of its simple design Source zstil.ru

If the drain was installed incorrectly, there will always be an unpleasant odor in the bathroom. It is impossible to fight it; you will have to rebuild the structure and install a water seal under the base. Without it, it will not be possible to solve the problem that has arisen.

A bathroom with a shower combined with a toilet is not an option for a large family. This arrangement of plumbing facilities is more suitable for owners of bachelor apartments.

A room with a shower is less humid

The cabin, surrounded by walls on all sides, retains moisture and heat, which means much less moisture settles on the surfaces of furniture, plumbing fixtures and things than when using an open bath. Thanks to this advantage, the room is less susceptible to mold and mildew.

An enclosed cubicle warms up much faster than a bathroom. This is a great advantage for those who are cold and are used to standing under hot streams of water before taking a shower.

Optimal size

For each family, the acceptable size of a shower enclosure will be different, since the needs and wishes of all residents are taken into account. Some will feel ideal with dimensions of 130 by 130 centimeters, while for others the size of the cabin will be quite sufficient - only 70 by 70 centimeters. Of course, for the sake of preserving free space, it is better not to bend the stick too much and settle on the option of 80 centimeters by 80 - this size is considered optimal. There will be an opportunity to raise your hands and bend over for something.

A bathtub is a more familiar product

Unfortunately, when renting or selling an apartment, a shower stall can scare away potential clients. The advantages of a traditional bath are obvious - this is an object familiar to everyone, but the cabin raises certain doubts. Before replacing the usual tank with a cabin, you should weigh all the pros and cons of the choice.

Another advantage of the bathtub is that the space above it can be occupied by a hanging dryer or clothes lines. Otherwise, you will have to use a floor structure or dry clothes on the balcony. If there is no loggia, a dryer above the bathroom will be the most convenient solution. It is also worth considering the space under the bath, which can be used as additional storage space.

Often, debates for and against a bathtub or shower stall end in nothing. All people are different and have different needs. The choice is also influenced by age, character traits, personal preferences and, of course, the dimensions of the bathroom. Having carefully analyzed all the advantages and disadvantages given in the article, everyone is able to independently make a choice in favor of one option or another.

Choosing a pallet together

It is worth showing due interest when choosing pallets. Which are more practical: acrylic or marble, cast iron or ceramic? Or maybe metal ones? How reliable are they all? You need to find answers now so as not to be disappointed later.

A brief overview of the advantages and disadvantages of pallets:

• Acrylic. It is considered quite durable and one of the most hygienic. Plus it is cheap, so it is in great demand. But it is better not to choose it if the weight is above average - it may bend! Yes, and you can slip on it, so preference is given to a corrugated model.
• Metal. The main advantages are the strength of the pallet and its reliability. True, during operation, its appearance and prestige are quickly lost, because it absorbs all the rust and dirt. Not everyone will like the noise that is created when water gets into the pan.
• Ceramic. Such a pallet is, of course, very aesthetic and beautiful. Plus it's sustainable. But don’t take risks with heavy objects: if they fall, the pallet may either crack or even break.
• Cast iron. This one has been tested by time - durability is guaranteed. The tray is resistant to any scratches and other mechanical damage, and perfectly absorbs noise. However, cast iron has low thermal conductivity.
• Marble. It looks very elegant, and is resistant to abrasion and all types of influence, be it chemical or mechanical. This pallet is strong and durable. But it is very expensive - this is perhaps its only and significant drawback.

By the way, manufacturers have come up with a convenient flat tray for disabled people. In other cases, it is simply mounted on the floor.

Photo of a tile shower tray

Clinker floor tiles for a homemade shower podium are selected taking into account frequent and prolonged contact with water. For cladding, products are used that have a relief or rough surface and a high slip resistance, which is less dangerous.

The most common design is a dense, durable, durable and moisture-resistant porcelain stoneware or quartz vinyl finish. Such structures can have a rectangular, square, rounded shape, be open type without a roof or closed type with a podium, walls and ceiling base. A tray with a side can have different heights, be deep enough and perfectly serve as a bathtub, which is especially suitable for those who, for example, need to bathe a child.

Device characteristics

Adopting hygiene procedures is the main task of plumbing. In addition to the main functions, the kit often contains additional options that are not always known to users. Let's look at the characteristics of the devices in detail.

Bath functions

Horizontal structures for hygiene procedures are made in the form of a bowl. Bathing tanks can be traditional in shape (rectangular, oval, corner) or non-standard. The volume of the bath varies between 100-250 liters, although upon individual order you can get a bath of any capacity.

Seat decoration with tiles

Convenient and comfortable steps or chairs integrated into the wall are most often decorated with small tiles or mosaics, most suitable for curves and curved lines.

Examples of lining shelves and niches in the shower

Thanks to the finishing of built-in niches and shelves in the shower, it is possible to create truly elegant accents in the interior. For example, you can use dark-colored tiles and thereby give the niches visual depth, or choose a contrasting design for the shelves and make them even more decorative.

The photo shows a shower room with niches decorated with dark-colored mosaics.

How to tile a shower stall without a tray?

In this case, they use cladding that contrasts with the overall design of the room, thereby highlighting the shower area, or use the same type of large-format tiles, suitable for the floor without differences in height. This way it turns out to visually enlarge the space and give it a very solid look.

When arranging this cabin, the main requirement is a sufficient height of the room, since, due to the fact that the shower drain and the pipe draining water into the sewer must be located below the floor level, using a concrete screed it is necessary to raise the floor and make a slope towards the drain .

The photo shows a toilet combined with a bathtub and a shower without a tray with a glass door, tiled.

Multifunctionality

What is the bathtub for? Of course, for water hygiene procedures. The answer is correct, but not complete. It is common for Russian people to look for alternative ways to use things and objects that seem to have very specific functions, and the bath is no exception. So, we think...

Firstly , the bathtub is washable. Of course, almost every home today has a washing machine. However, sometimes there is a need to wash some bulky and heavy items - curtains, bedspreads, winter clothes, etc. And this is where a large bath bowl comes to the rescue. Here you can also place a basin with items made of delicate fabric, which many housewives simply do not dare to entrust to the washing machine.

Secondly , you can wash dishes in the bathroom if necessary. Of course, there is a kitchen sink for this purpose. But how can you scrub the baking tray without pouring water on the floor? Or wash a ten-liter saucepan that simply doesn’t fit in the sink?

Thirdly , a bath is an indispensable thing for dog owners. Furry pets need to be bathed periodically, and their paws need to be washed after every walk. And if you can try bathing a Chihuahua, Toy Terrier or Pekingese in a basin, then what should owners of large dogs do?

Fourthly , the bath allows you to store a supply of water if necessary. In our country, an announcement on the entrance door about a planned or emergency shutdown of water is almost commonplace. It happens that cold water is turned off for a day or more. And without water, as you know, you can’t go here or there. What to do? In anticipation of the upcoming “drought,” simply fill a spacious bathtub bowl.

Fifthly , a bath will help extend the life of flowers. After all, they sometimes give you bouquets? Well, at least on the occasion of a major event, for example, an anniversary? (Although, for sure, there are still romantics who shower their women with roses for no reason...) How I want to preserve this splendor longer! And for this, it is better to leave flowers that stand in a vase during the day in cool water at night. And here again the bath comes to the rescue.

How, besides washing, can you use a shower stall? In which of the above situations can she come to the rescue? Alas, the shower cannot boast of such versatility...

If it comes to comparing a bathtub and a shower cabin, we can mention one more function of the bathtub: it can play the role of... a shower. If you don't have the time or desire to soak in warm water, you can take a shower in the bathroom. All you need for this is a curtain that will prevent water pouring from the watering can from getting onto the floor. The ability to replace your direct competitor is one-sided: you can take a shower in the bathroom, but you can’t swim in the shower.

Tile layout options

The classic option for laying boar tiles is a horizontal arrangement with an offset. To create a unique design, you can use a more complex, but at the same time quite original layout in vertical rows or a herringbone pattern. Laying tile products diagonally, which allows you to visually expand the space, is also considered very labor-intensive.

In the photo there is a gray boar tile with a horizontal layout with an offset in the shower.

Which shower enclosure to choose

First, decide what kind of fencing you need: frame or frameless, with sliding, hinged or folding doors. The difference between them is clear from the names; it all depends on the size of the bathroom and your imagination.

Now - the form. Square, semicircular, quarter circle, rectangular, pentagonal - modern fences allow you to give the shower almost any shape. “At the customer’s request, we produce curved glass fencing with the required radius. We can paint the glass in bulk, apply an ornament or image from our catalog or provided by the client to it. Any combination of fittings is possible, glass can be cut to individual sizes. And even catalog configurations can always be adjusted to the dimensions of a particular bathroom by performing preliminary measurements,” says Lyudmila Adestova, CEO of GuteWetter, the first Russian manufacturer of shower enclosures.

The ideal materials for a shower enclosure are tempered glass, chrome steel profiles and fittings, fluoroplastic bushings, bearings, rollers and gaskets. A protective coating for glass with a water-repellent composition would be useful, making cleaning easier and preventing the appearance of limescale and the accumulation of bacteria on the surface.

An example of a universal choice for a city apartment would be shower enclosures made of glass in the shape of a pentagon, which have a frameless design, that is, mounted directly to the walls and tray. This configuration has a sophisticated design and at the same time allows you to optimize the space of the bathroom.

Tile color range

The choice of color scheme directly depends on the dimensions of the room and its functional planning features. Beige, white, black, grey, green, blue, brown or any other color tile finish, taking into account all spatial nuances, can harmoniously complement any design.

The photo shows the interior of a bathroom with a shower decorated with square gray tiles.

When using light shades, not predominantly white, it is possible to visually expand the shower room and increase its volume. A more unique and unique design, as well as the elimination of minor surface defects, can be achieved by alternating tile products of different colors.

How else to close the bathtub?

Typically, under-wall bathtubs require additional enclosures (freestanding bathtubs can do without them). There are several ways to close a bathtub:

1. Ready-made panels for bathtubs. They can be purchased in stores and selected to match the selected bathtub model. These are covers mounted on special brackets that can be easily removed at any time. They will be very convenient in hydromassage bathtubs, where a pump and other elements are located under the bathtub and must be easily accessible;
2. Built-in cabinets equipped with shelves in which you can store, for example, cosmetics;
3. Another solution is to enclose the bathtub with slabs, brickwork or polystyrene foam, lined with ceramic tiles;
4. A practical solution is a ready-made bathtub body with shelves for storing cosmetics.

Bathroom with shower

Choosing a beautiful, functional model is half the battle. Fitting it harmoniously into the existing space and creating an organic bathroom design is not an easy task. A shower cabin can play a key role in the interior or become an easy addition to any design.

Why do people prefer a shower cabin?

A shower is a must for any bathroom. It's hard to imagine the opposite. Increasingly, apartment owners prefer full-fledged shower cabins instead of standard bathtubs.

Bathroom with shower

It is not without reason that there is a trend towards the popularity of these technical means, because they have a number of significant advantages:

• Efficiency of water procedures. If there is a classic bowl, the shower unit is present and is used much more often in the bathroom itself. Here the dependence is directly proportional to the time spent. Sometimes the bustle of everyday life significantly limits the duration of water procedures. Taking a shower is much faster.
• Saving water resources. Using a shower significantly reduces water costs. The cabin does not have to be filled with a large volume of water. The pressure of the flowing resource is adjusted as needed. The washing process does not take long.
• Increase usable space. The shower cabin is simply a godsend for a small bathroom. The use of compact models allows you to significantly save space.
• Safe to use. The use of anti-slip coatings on the shower tray allows us to talk about minimizing the risk of injury when taking water procedures.
• Functionality. The latest developments allow you to choose from a variety of models offered. Equipping the cabins with all sorts of additional functions will satisfy the needs of the most demanding buyer.
• Aesthetics. Manufacturers care about the appearance of shower cabins. Ergonomics and original design allow you to create a unique environment and realize interesting design ideas.

Glass shower cabin

The shower cabin, having a fairly significant set of positive qualities, requires careful care. Embossed surfaces and joints need regular cleaning, otherwise the design aesthetics will quickly lose the required attractiveness.

Types of shower cabins

When preparing to renovate a bathroom with a shower stall, you first need to find a model that meets the requirements. The choice is great and requires a serious approach and careful study of useful characteristics.

Bathroom with toilet and shower

Any shower stall is a structure that limits the washing area. Conventionally, models are divided into open and closed.

Open showers

This model is often called a shower corner. It is equipped with side walls, but does not have its own base or rear panels. The model is mounted directly to the walls and ceiling of the bathroom, which become its continuation. An open shower cabin is economical, usually has only the most necessary functionality, without frills.

Open shower cabin without tray

Installing such a model requires preparatory measures. Mandatory conditions include waterproofing and leveling the main surfaces of the bathroom: floor, walls, ceiling.

Shower stall in white and pink bathroom

The need for additional actions is associated with creating a tight seal for the future shower enclosure. The work is carried out with high precision. Even an insignificant gap can regularly upset the owner with leakage and accumulation of water outside the shower space. In the absence of high-quality waterproofing, this is fraught with problems with neighbors.

Bathroom interior with shower

The design is simple, so the range of functions is extremely limited. Installation of an open shower cabin is carried out exclusively in a corner of the room, or in a niche. It is possible to install this model of cabin directly on the bathroom floor. Saving space and money is guaranteed.

Corner shower cabin with shallow tray

An open shower stall, equipped with transparent internal doors, can significantly free up space and create the effect of lightness, weightlessness, and elegance. Efficiency of use and visual space are important for limited spaces.

DIY shower cabin idea

The absence of a pallet requires high-quality waterproofing and drainage equipment. These actions “eat up” several centimeters of the height of the room. Particular attention should be paid to the choice of tiles for the floor. Anti-slip options are most preferable.

It is better to make the drain ladder from high-quality stainless steel so it will last longer.

Enclosed showers

A closed cabin or shower box is a separate structure that has its own walls, floor, and ceiling. Functionality and tightness are guaranteed by the features of the model. Shower boxes are made from a variety of materials, differ in size, shape, and the presence of additional features.

Shower cabin with lighting

Cabin trays vary in depth (3-45 cm) and are made from:

• Acrylic;
• Cast iron;
• Become;
• Ceramics.

Pallets made of acrylic are the most popular. They are light, durable, retain heat, and do not lose their color. The presence of a metal frame ensures rigidity. Scratches and other minor operating defects are simply corrected with a special paste.

Open shower

Cast iron is heavy, but retains heat well. Steel creates a lot of noise from the flow of flowing water. Both options are covered with enamel, which is overly susceptible to mechanical damage: chips, scratches. Ceramics are hygienic and require minimal effort to maintain. A cold surface and fragility significantly impairs the properties.

Lilac bathroom with shower

Walls and doors are made of impact-resistant glass and acrylic. They open in a sliding, hinged way. Roller rail structures are compact and have high tightness. Hinged doors require additional space.

Shower stall in a small bathroom

Additional functions of enclosed shower cabins

Additional functionality allows you to get a number of significant advantages:

• Hydromassage;
• Aromatherapy;
• Bath;
• Tropical rain;
• Cold and hot shower;
• Chromotherapy;
• Ventilation;
• Voice control, telephone, radio;
• Lighting, mirrors, shelves, dispensers, seats, handrails, etc.

Shower cabin with seat

The hydromassage function is the most popular. Elastic jets of water supplied by nozzles promote relaxation, improve blood circulation, metabolism, and help in the fight against excess weight and cellulite. Caution should be exercised by hypertensive patients, cancer patients, and during periods of exacerbation of chronic pathologies.

Shower cabin with sauna

Hydromassage is divided into vertical and horizontal. Water is supplied by nozzles located in a special way. It is possible to regulate the pressure of the jets and air. The number of nozzles and the ability to regulate will tell about the quality of hydromassage procedures. The possibility of turning, adjusting pressure, direction, and the availability of high-quality filters must be specified when purchasing.

Open shower

The function of the bath is obtained by creating high air humidity at a relatively low water temperature. The steam generator distributes the smallest particles with a fan, creating a bath microclimate. The function only works at a certain pressure in the pipes.

Shower cabin in the bathroom

Aromatherapy distributes a pleasant scent around the perimeter of the cabin. Tropical rain disperses tiny droplets of water, helping to relieve stress. A contrast shower alternates hot and cold jets, providing stress relief and strengthening the body. Chromotherapy tints water with LED light. Color perception helps improve the health of the body.

Rectangular shower cabin with tray

A variety of other useful functions can be selected according to personal needs. Many properties of a closed shower cabin are simply not used by the owners, so it is better to choose the necessary set in advance.

Interior of a bathroom in Khrushchev

The variety of possibilities creates the need to supply electricity. It is better to allocate a separate line with mandatory grounding.

Small bathroom with shower

The available space influences which bathroom interior design with shower you prefer. Perhaps limited space will indicate a complete abandonment of the standard bathroom, or replacement with a more compact model.

Varieties

Shower stalls can be closed or open. Closed - completely closed around the entire perimeter and have a roof - this allows steam to condense, and a sauna effect is created.

Open - partially enclose the shower area, since there is a shower door or partition between the walls. The cabin doors are made of high-strength glass (can be frosted, transparent or rough), and some models have sliding doors.

When purchasing a shower stall, you must take into account that it must be at least 0.8 × 0.8 m in size, otherwise being in it will resemble a rack in a bottle.

Shower tray

Cast iron, steel, ceramics, artificial marble and acrylic are used to make pallets. Each of these materials has its own characteristics.

For example, cast-iron enameled trays are durable, but take a long time to warm up, steel ones create noise with high water pressure, and ceramic trays can break if a heavy object falls on them. Marble ones are durable and comfortable, have a beautiful appearance and create the effect of luxury.

Acrylic trays also look very beautiful, but the surface is not resistant to scratches or damage. In principle, scratches on acrylic can be easily removed at home; you do not need special skills for this.

pros

• Saving bathroom space. The shower cabin is ideal for small bathrooms, as it takes up 2.5 times less space than a bathtub.
• Safety - there is no possibility of injury while taking a shower. They are made from a safe and non-slip material (plastic), so it is quite difficult to slip in the shower.
• Economical - 2-3 times less water is consumed than when taking a bath.

• Availability of additional functions. The shower cabin may have a radio, telephone, sound therapy. Some models have a Turkish bath function - a special roof that retains steam. This cabin helps maintain good health and mood.
• Taking care of your health. You can do inhalations or take treatments such as aromatherapy. Of course - this is only possible in expensive and multifunctional cabins. Some shower cabins help restore your strength after a hard day at work using chromotherapy, or light therapy. Many multifunctional shower stalls have built-in massage functions.
• A huge number of installation and configuration options.

Minuses

• High-quality rectangular shower cabins with good doors are quite wide.
• If the water pressure is low (less than 1.5 bar) in the house, you can only take a shower in the shower stall, no matter how multifunctional it is.
• Over time, a white coating remains on glass doors and walls from dried drops of water. It is necessary to wipe the walls and doors very carefully after taking a shower.

But the dimensions of this type are larger than the dimensions of a regular box. But don't worry - it's worth the purchase.

Video: Shower cabins How to choose and install a shower cabin

Interior styles

The size of the room, of course, is important, but when choosing plumbing fixtures, finishing materials and accessories, you must also pay attention to style.

Bathroom with shower in classic style

Classic is suitable for large spaces, but if you have to work in a small room, reduce decorative elements as much as possible and use white tones.

The traditional style is luxurious, but at the same time noble and discreet. Paint such a bathroom in milky, cream, delicate blue, pink, peach, salmon, and calm gray shades.

As for materials, give preference to natural options or their high-quality imitations - this could be stone, wood, metal, ceramic tiles, glass, plaster, porcelain stoneware.

There should not be too many interior elements; select parts in the correct harmonious shapes and install them in proportion.

Bathroom with shower in modern style

The main motto of most modern solutions is less, but better. Do not overdo it with decorations, take care of the ergonomics of the furniture.

Make a choice in favor of chrome, metal, concrete, plastic, glass surfaces. The color scheme is basic, neutral, but bright elements can be used as accents, for example, in textiles.

Country style bathroom with shower

In this case, you can already give free rein to your imagination and experiment. For example, decorate the walls outside the shower from wood (high-quality protective agents will help the material maintain its integrity), and in the shower stall use fragmentary mosaic and patchwork tiles.

The theme can be emphasized by details - a shaped faucet, a sink, a lamp, a mirror with a retro touch. Hang a fun picture of a cute cow munching on flowers. All the charm of a rustic style lies in such simple, pretty elements. Calm, noble shades in the background will help balance the playful image of the room.

Bathroom with shower in loft style

Loft spaces are characterized by an abundance of free space. Of course, if you wish, you can design it in even a small bathroom with a shower. To do this, generously use light colors, mainly white, as well as many light sources.

For example, as a finishing material for the walls, use white hog tiles or light paint that is not afraid of moisture, and large gray tiles near the shower.

Make shower partitions completely transparent or with inserts that make the doors look like large window frames. In the latter case, together with somewhat rough finishing materials, it will be possible to recreate the effect of a factory room with characteristic large windows.

Pay attention to detail - leave the pipes visible, install sinks that resemble solid pieces of heavy stone. Warm brown, wood tones and soft light will help add coziness to the interior.

Bathroom with shower in nautical style

This is an excellent solution for a small room. Marine interiors are light, airy and romantic. Leave the shower stall open and make the partitions made of glass.

As for the color scheme, light sandy shades, bleached blue tones, wood that will refer to a ship theme or resemble a pier are suitable; you cannot do without universal white.

Use wicker pieces, striped towels, starfish. The mirror can be hung on a small rope. But please note that the beach, ship theme should not be intrusive; mark it with only a few decorative elements.

Sources

• https://design-homes.ru/komnaty/vannaya-komnata/chto-luchshe-vanna-ili-dushevaya-kabina
• https://design-homes.ru/komnaty/vannaya-komnata/dushevaya-iz-plitki
• https://blog.gnezdo-mall.ru/vannaya-komnata-s-dushevoj-kabinoj/
• https://Trizio.ru/vannaya-komnata-s-dushevoy-kabinoy-85-foto-895

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Best answers

Dusya Marusya:

If no one in the family likes to lie in the bathtub, a shower stall can save 1m2 for installing, for example, a washing machine. However, I personally would not turn a separate bathroom into a combined one for several reasons: 1. The waterproofing of the bathroom, made during the construction of the house, will be damaged, and it is unknown whether your workers will be able to restore it correctly. 2. If someone is washing, and the other is impatient... . 3. For redevelopment you need to get permission, and this is such a hassle: (4. A good booth that won’t break, won’t leak, whose door won’t warp, etc. costs from 40 thousand, installing it will cost another 10-15... There is an option make a shower stall out of the bathtub. Put full-length doors. And sculpt a panel with a shower, nozzles, hydromassages, etc. on the wall. Regarding the material. We made the entire cabin in tiles, and the tray was made of tiles, and there was plastic on the ceiling. But This is in a country house. Even if it leaks, it won’t flood anyone. Good luck to you.

Personal account is not available:

We have a shower corner, BUT not a shower stall. The cabin takes up too much space. We did this: we installed a shower tray, installed a shower curtain (glass), you can choose it or order it of any height, and the plumbing fixtures, respectively, separately. It's spacious inside, less space is consumed outside and the ceiling is of any height.

Vasily Ivanov:

shower cabins are different in height, and the ceiling can be made of plastic panels. The question is choosing a color or pattern. ….And I’ll also say that I shower drunk. cab. better not to go! .-it's too dark!

Irine:

We have a shower cabin (although we also have a regular bathtub). My husband uses the cabin. Everything works fine, it’s been more than 2 years now, there’s enough pressure. Among the “cons” of our cabin, I would note the lack of shelves inside for shampoo and washcloths (it is also impossible to attach). And there are also water stains on the transparent walls; you need to wash them often to have an aesthetic appearance, but you don’t have enough time for that... And the ceiling can be made suspended slatted, for example. And if the height does not allow, simply paint with water-based emulsion.

Zhenya Lukashevich:

I have a cubicle, the only downside is that the bathroom is easier to clean

Alena Maksimova:

There is not enough space in the shower stall, but after a week or two I got used to it) ) (the first time I felt dizzy because of the confined space)))))

screw:

Cheap cabins have some disadvantages: assembly with sealant, problems with faucets, cracks on acrylic surfaces and discoloration; a bathtub with sliding curtains is in many ways superior to cabins, and you can install various equipment in it (hydromassage, lighting, etc.), and if the cabin, then IDO

Old summer resident:

Buy an inexpensive Chinese plastic shower cabin (from 15 thousand) with a deep tray, an extractor hood, lighting and a radio, there will be no problems. The only thing is that you should definitely check the supply hoses and it’s better to immediately replace them with good ones, otherwise they will start leaking later, otherwise it’s great, I've had it for 5 years now, no matter what.

Michael:

if it’s less than 30,000, then it’s better to have a bathtub - rust will start to leak on the sealant, the acrylic will crack, it will be beautiful after installation and then a nightmare, and the cabin is like an addition to the bathtub. Many people regret it later

Elena Tolkacheva:

A good expensive cabin has only advantages: strong plastic tray, excellent glass walls, well-thought-out water drainage, no sealants, and only 1 minus - the fan does not work enough, it is very stuffy, there is a lot of moisture, not every core is comfortable.

Elena Patrusheva:

2 in 1 (all the shortcomings are collected)