If you’re looking to optimise your small bathroom, a walk-in shower is an excellent choice. Not only do they save space, but they also bring a modern, minimalist appeal that can make your bathroom feel larger and more open. The best part? Installing a walk-in shower doesn’t have to be complicated. Let’s go through the step-by-step process of transforming your small bathroom into a sleek, functional space with a walk-in shower.
Choosing the Right Walk-In Shower Style
When it comes to walk-in showers, you have several style options. Let’s break down a few key choices:
- Frameless vs. Framed Showers: Frameless walk-in showers are ideal for small spaces because they offer an open, airy feel. Without bulky frames, they create a seamless transition from the rest of your bathroom. Framed showers, on the other hand, offer added stability but might feel a bit more constricted in a small room.
- Shower Pan vs. Tiled Floor: A shower pan is a ready-made, low-threshold base that’s easy to install. It’s a practical choice for a small bathroom, as it requires less maintenance and can be more affordable. Tiled floors, however, provide a custom look and are ideal if you want to create a completely seamless, luxurious space. Check out these accessible and stylish shower solutions.
- Glass Doors vs. No Door: If you prefer a fully open design, consider going doorless. A walk-in shower without doors adds a sense of openness, perfect for tiny bathrooms. However, if you need to contain water splashes, you can opt for a glass screen or door. A half-glass partition can create a stylish barrier without making the space feel cramped.
Selecting Materials for a Small Bathroom Walk-In Shower
The materials you choose will play a significant role in both the aesthetics and functionality of your walk-in shower.
- Tiles: For small bathrooms, larger tiles (around 600mm x 600mm) work best as they create fewer grout lines and make the space feel bigger. Glass tiles are another great option, as they reflect light and create a sense of openness. Be sure to choose a tile that suits your overall bathroom style, whether that’s modern, rustic, or classic.
- Waterproof and Non-Slip Flooring: Safety is a key concern, especially in smaller spaces. Choose non-slip tiles for the floor, as these reduce the risk of slipping when the floor is wet. Materials like textured stone, porcelain, or rubberised tiles are great choices for both style and safety.
- Shower Walls: Whether you opt for classic tiles or more modern materials like acrylic or stone panels, it’s important to pick something that’s both durable and easy to maintain. Acrylic panels are low-maintenance and come in a range of finishes, while stone gives a luxurious look but may require more upkeep.
Maximising Storage in a Small Walk-In Shower
In a small bathroom, every inch counts, and this includes the space inside your walk-in shower. Fortunately, there are plenty of clever storage solutions you can incorporate without taking up valuable room:
- Built-in Niches: Adding recessed shelves or niches into the shower walls is a great way to store toiletries without using up any floor space. These can be customised to your needs, providing easy access to shower essentials like shampoo, soap, and razors.
- Clever Shower Organisers: Invest in organisers like hanging baskets, corner shelves, or over-the-door hooks to keep your shower clutter-free. This allows you to store towels or extra products while maintaining the clean, minimalist look of your walk-in shower.
- Foldable or Stackable Items: If your shower area doubles as a storage space for towels, opt for stackable baskets or foldable towel racks that can be tucked away when not in use. This way, everything has its place without overcrowding the space.
Do Walk-In Showers Have a Tray?
With a walk-in shower, you can choose whether it has a tray or not. Traditionally, this is a design that is all-level and has a tiled floor. In other words, you can walk in and there are no steps. This ensures maximum accessibility, allowing wheelchairs and older users to safely shower and have freedom. What’s more, many people like the modern style it has and how it can make the bathroom look spacious.
But, this doesn’t mean that a walk-in shower can’t have a tray. There are some homeowners who prefer this look. Generally, it’s going to have a low profile so that it doesn’t impact accessibility. Here are some reasons why you might want to have a tray in a walk-in shower.
For a Drier Bathroom
If your walk-in shower doesn’t have a tray, it can end up being a wet room. In other words, the walls and floors can get wet during a shower, making the place more difficult to clean and impacting safety. If you want a drier bathroom, it’s best to have a tray installed. Even one with a very low profile will help contain the water.
For a Safer Surrounding
Perhaps you’re considering a walk-in shower for accessibility. You want everybody in your household to have freedom. Well, you still have to think about safety. Having a tray installed means that you can get a texture on the flooring. This can help with safety and making sure there’s some grip underfoot.
For Easy Installation
Do you want to ensure that your new bathroom is installed quickly and easily? If you already have a shower tray, it’s just a case of replacing it, which involves minimal work. However, having to get the floor levelled and tiled is going to take much longer. So, know that a tray makes installation easier, which can ensure you get your new bathroom in no time.
Conclusion
Transforming your small bathroom with a walk-in shower is an excellent way to maximise space, improve functionality, and create a modern, stylish environment. With the right planning, design, and installation, you’ll have a beautiful walk-in shower that enhances your home for years to come. Ready to take the plunge? Start measuring your bathroom and envision how a walk-in shower can completely change your space.
