Outdoor showers are not just a beach house luxury but a versatile addition to any home, offering a delightful way to rinse off after a garden workout, cool down on a hot summer day, or wash off your furry friends. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about outdoor showers, from the benefits and various types to installation tips and maintenance advice.
Key Takeaways:
- Variety of Choices: From wall-mounted to freestanding, there's an outdoor shower to fit every style and budget.
- Installation Insights: Proper planning and understanding of plumbing requirements are crucial for a successful setup.
- Maintenance Tips: Regular care ensures longevity and performance of your outdoor shower.
Understanding the Basics of Outdoor Showers
Outdoor showers come in various designs, each serving different needs and preferences. Whether you opt for a simple hose with a showerhead attached or a fully enclosed structure with hot and cold water, the basic function remains the same—to provide an open-air space to bathe. The choice often depends on your budget, available space, and specific needs like privacy and temperature control.
Choosing the right materials is crucial for durability, especially in varying weather conditions. Cedar and teak are popular for their resistance to rot and insects, while stainless steel and PVC offer longevity and minimal maintenance.
Types of Outdoor Showers
There are primarily two types of outdoor showers: freestanding and wall-mounted. Freestanding models are versatile and can be installed anywhere in your yard. They require a water source and drainage plan but offer flexibility in placement and design. Wall-mounted showers, on the other hand, need to be attached to an external wall of your home, which makes them more suitable for those who want a shower close to their indoor plumbing.
Each type has its pros and cons, but your choice will largely depend on your specific needs, such as the desired level of privacy and the intended use of the shower.
Design Ideas to Enhance Your Outdoor Space
Designing an outdoor shower can be as simple or elaborate as you wish. For a minimalist approach, a sleek, stainless steel fixture can add a modern touch to your garden. If you prefer a more natural look, a wooden enclosure with stone floors can blend seamlessly with the outdoor environment.
Incorporating elements like bamboo screens or climbing plants can provide privacy while adding to the aesthetic appeal. Lighting is another aspect to consider, especially if you plan to use the shower in the evening.
Installation Tips
Proper installation is key to the functionality and safety of your outdoor shower. It's essential to consider both water supply and drainage. For the water supply, you can tap into your home’s existing plumbing system or install a new line. Drainage can be handled through a simple dry well, French drain, or connected to your home’s wastewater system, depending on local regulations.
Hiring a professional plumber can ensure that all installations meet code requirements and function properly. They can also help you navigate local codes and permits, which can vary widely depending on your location.
Plumbing Requirements
Understanding the plumbing aspects of outdoor showers can save you a lot of headaches. If you want both hot and cold water, you'll need to connect to both water lines. This might require significant plumbing work, especially if your existing hot water supply is not close to where you plan to install the shower.
For those who prefer a simpler setup, a cold water-only shower can be easily connected to a garden hose. This option is particularly suitable for temporary or seasonal use during warmer months.
Maintenance and Care
Maintaining an outdoor shower is relatively straightforward but essential for extending its life and ensuring safe use. Regularly cleaning the shower area and checking for clogs in the drainage system can prevent issues down the line. It’s also important to winterize your outdoor shower in colder climates to prevent freezing and cracking.
Using water-resistant materials and ensuring all fixtures are tightly sealed can also help minimize maintenance efforts and protect your investment.
Privacy Solutions
Privacy is a major consideration for many when installing an outdoor shower. There are several creative and functional solutions to this, from constructing a full enclosure with a door to using natural elements like tall hedges or privacy screens made from outdoor-friendly materials.
The level of privacy you need will depend on your surroundings and personal comfort level, but it’s important to consider this aspect during the planning phase to ensure you can enjoy your outdoor shower to its fullest.
Cost Considerations
The cost of installing an outdoor shower can vary widely based on the complexity of the design and the materials used. A basic setup with minimal plumbing and a simple enclosure might cost a few hundred dollars, while a more elaborate installation with customized fixtures and landscaping can run into the thousands.
Planning your budget ahead of time and deciding on your must-haves versus nice-to-haves can help keep costs under control without compromising on the quality and functionality of your outdoor shower.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Using an outdoor shower can be environmentally beneficial, as it often consumes less water than indoor baths or showers. To enhance this benefit, consider installing water-saving showerheads and using eco-friendly soaps and shampoos that won’t harm your garden or the local ecosystem.
Collecting and reusing gray water for gardening is another way to make your outdoor shower more sustainable, though this may require additional setup and compliance with local regulations.
5 of the Best Outdoor Showers Available on Amazon
We hope you find your next awesome thing from the list below! Each product was independently selected by our editors. Some may have been sent as samples for us to fiddle with, but all opinions in this article are our own. Oh, and FYI — AnnesAnalytics may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy something (that's how we stay in business). Reviews have been edited for length and clarity. Enjoy finding your next awesome thing.
gotonovo Matte Black Outdoor Shower Fixture SUS304 System Combo Set
Rainfall Single Handle High Pressure Hand Spray Wall Mount 2 Dual Function Stainless Steel
Why We Love This
Durable Construction and Efficient Water Use
Experience the perfect blend of durability and eco-friendliness with our Wall Mount Bathtub Shower Set. Featuring a water flow rate of 1.24 gpm (4.67 L/min), this shower set is designed to conserve water while providing a luxurious bathing experience. Constructed from high-grade SUS304 stainless steel, it ensures longevity and resistance to discoloration and rust.
Versatile Showering Options
Enjoy the flexibility of our 2-in-1 diverter shower mixer valve, which allows you to easily switch between the top shower and hand spray. Please note that the spout is not included in this model. The set includes an 8-inch rain showerhead and a 59-inch stainless steel shower hose, enhancing your showering experience with multiple options.
User-Friendly Design and Installation
The adjustable height brass slide bar and single handle control for hot and cold water make it convenient for all family members to use. This surface-mounted shower set is designed for easy installation, allowing you to retrofit your existing shower without the need for a complete remodel. All necessary mounting hardware and clear installation instructions are included.
Adjustable Installation Parameters
The standard hole center distance on the wall is 5.9 inches (15 cm), but we provide an NPT 1/2 adapter to accommodate installation hole distances ranging from 5.1 inches to 6.4 inches (13 cm to 16.5 cm). This feature ensures a flexible installation process that can adapt to various bathroom layouts.
Lifetime Warranty and Customer Support
We are committed to providing a high-quality product and exceptional customer service. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact us. Our product comes with a lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.
Upgrade your bathroom with our Wall Mount Bathtub Shower Set, designed for efficiency, versatility, and ease of use.
Encouraging Review
"I used this awesome shower piece in my beautiful outdoor shower. It’s great, good price and works beautifully. Unfortunately I live in the northeast and I didn’t properly drain it one cold day after using it. The ice damaged the components and I had to disassemble. I contacted the company and they were super easy to work with and very responsive. They were able to ship me my new pieces in a week or so, all I had to do was pay for shipping. VERY pleased with this product." Amazon Review by Timmy
Artiwell Outdoor Shower Fixture System
Double Handle Utility Shower Faucet with Showerhead and Soap Dish, Polished Chrome
Why We Love This
Our shower faucet system features a modern industrial design that seamlessly fits any outdoor setting. Whether it's beside the pool or outside your beach house, the corrosion-resistant chrome body not only adds a touch of elegance but also ensures long-lasting durability. The dual-handle design allows for precise temperature control, enhancing your showering experience.
Advanced Rustproof Technology
Unlike typical outdoor showers that succumb to rust, our system boasts a high-quality stainless steel shower riser with a chrome-plated finish. This advanced material is specifically engineered to resist corrosion and withstand physical impacts, offering you a more durable and aesthetically pleasing shower system.
High-Performance Shower Head - California CEC Approved
Experience the perfect balance of conservation and performance with our 1.8 GPM high-performance shower head. Designed to comply with California energy regulations, this shower head features a new technology flow restrictor that optimizes water flow—ensuring powerful spray performance even at lower pressures. Enjoy a consistent and satisfying shower every time, without any compromise.
Versatile and Easy Installation
Ideal for various applications such as lake houses, spas, or mudrooms, our outdoor shower system is designed for flexibility. It can be installed with either top or bottom mount supply lines, thanks to the high-quality rustproof materials used. This versatility extends to indoor bathroom installations, making it a multifunctional solution for any home.
Complimentary Accessories Included
Set up is a breeze with the additional accessories provided. Each system comes with stainless steel screws, plumber’s tape, and a riser extension tube. The extension tube is particularly useful for adjusting the shower head height, making it perfect for taller individuals or those who prefer a more immersive rainfall shower experience.
Encouraging Review
"Came with everything needed for install. Installed in 15 minutes. Great price and fast delivery. Would highly recommend!" Amazon Review by Wendy Dickerson
Why We Love This
Our outdoor shower kit is crafted with the highest standards, featuring a valve body made of robust copper and a handle and rod constructed from 304 stainless steel for maximum durability and corrosion resistance. The shower head is made from ABS environmental protection material, ensuring longevity and eco-friendliness.
High-Pressure Shower Head for Efficient Water Use
Experience the efficiency of our high-pressure shower head, designed to save more water than traditional showers. Equipped with advanced internal space structure and pressurization technology, it ensures a quick and thorough rinse, perfect for a swift outdoor shower experience.
Convenient Single Handle Control
Adjust water temperature effortlessly with our user-friendly single handle control design. This feature allows you to manage the settings with one hand, making it ideal for a seamless outdoor showering experience.
Versatile and Multi-Purpose
Ideal for various outdoor settings, this shower kit is perfect next to the pool, at a beach house, lake room, spa, or mudroom. It offers the ultimate convenience for all your outdoor showering needs, enhancing your outdoor lifestyle.
Easy Installation Process
Install our outdoor shower kit with ease, thanks to its surface mount design. There's no need to remove the wall, and all necessary installation accessories and instructions are included. Set up is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy your new outdoor shower quickly
Encouraging Review
"Well I've only hooked it up to the cold water line outside my pool. It's really fantastic. Very nice looking and because it has the single knob it works fine with just one line going into it. Super for an outdoor shower situation." Amazon Review by Chipp Walters
Bestway Flowclear SolarFlow 2 Gal Solar-Heated Outdoor Shower
Portable, Outside Shower Station Fixture
Why We Love This
The Bestway Flowclear SolarFlow 2 Gallon (8 Liters) Solar-Heated Outdoor Shower is an essential addition for anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors. Whether you're a backyard pool owner, a camping aficionado, or a frequent beach visitor, this portable shower offers the ultimate convenience. It's ideal for rinsing off sand from your feet, or for a quick wash of your body or hair before you head indoors.
Temperature and Water Flow Control
Achieve the perfect shower experience with the SolarFlow Outdoor Shower’s easy-to-use features. It comes equipped with a quick-turn on/off handle that allows you to effortlessly control both the temperature and the water flow. Customize your shower to suit your preferences and enjoy the simplicity of its operation.
User-Friendly Design
Designed with practicality in mind, the SolarFlow Outdoor Shower features a fixed, oversized shower head and a robust base, enabling you to set up and shower virtually anywhere. The unit reaches a height of 7 feet and 2 inches when mounted on its stand, making it accessible for most users.
Eco-Friendly Heating
Enjoy the benefits of a warm shower without the need for electricity. The SolarFlow’s 2-gallon reservoir harnesses the power of the sun to heat the water. This eco-friendly feature ensures that you can have a warm shower ready outdoors, while also being mindful of the environment. Additionally, the shower is built to withstand damage from salt and weather, enhancing its durability.
Effortless Installation
Setting up the SolarFlow Outdoor Shower is straightforward. Attach it to the large base for stability, or mount it directly onto a deck or patio using the included hardware. For water supply, simply connect the shower to a garden hose. The flexibility of installation means you can move the shower as needed, ensuring it fits perfectly in your outdoor space.
Encouraging Review
"It's been hooked up for 4 days now, and it works fine. Plenty of hot water after a pool dip. I used plenty of plumbers tape. Great shower." Amazon Review by Jim Phillips
Aolemi Outdoor Shower Faucet
Stainless Steel 8 inch Rainfall Shower Head Kit Single Handle High Pressure Hand Spray Wall Mount
Why We Love This
High-Efficiency Water Usage: Experience eco-friendly luxury with a water flow rate of 1.24 GPM (4.69 L/min), ensuring efficient water use while providing a satisfying shower experience.
Robust 304 Stainless Steel Construction: Crafted entirely from premium 304 stainless steel, this outdoor shower set boasts a matte black finish that resists oxidation and scratches. The durable design ensures it remains free from discoloration, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor spaces.
Dual Shower Functions: Easily switch between the hand shower and the overhead showerhead with the included diverter valve. The high-quality matte black finish adds a touch of sophistication to your outdoor bathing area.
Easy Installation: This wall-mounted outdoor shower system is designed for straightforward setup with 2 holes installation. It supports both NPT 1/2" connections and comes with all necessary mounting hardware and clear installation instructions.
Adjustable Shower Height: Tailor your shower experience with an adjustable height feature, ranging from 33.4 inches to 51 inches (85 cm to 130 cm), to accommodate different user heights.
Flexible Installation Options: The system includes an adjustable adapter to modify the installation hole distance from 5 inches to 6.6 inches (13 cm to 17 cm), providing versatility in setup according to your space requirements.
Enhance your outdoor living space with this stylish and functional outdoor shower system, perfect for rinsing off after a swim or simply enjoying an outdoor bathing experience.
Encouraging Review
"I’ve had this shower unit installed outside, under the sun for a year now and it’s held up great. You simply cannot beat the quality for this price. Pressure is great and the features work flawlessly. Would 100% recommend this shower." Amazon Review by kevin s.
Summary
Outdoor showers offer a unique blend of functionality and pleasure, enhancing your living space and providing a practical solution for various outdoor activities. By understanding the different types, installation requirements, and maintenance needs, you can choose and design an outdoor shower that fits your lifestyle and budget.
FAQ
Q: Do I need a permit to install an outdoor shower? A: It depends on your local building codes. Always check with your local authorities to ensure compliance with all regulations.
Q: Can outdoor showers be used in winter? A: Yes, but proper winterization is crucial to prevent damage from freezing temperatures. This typically involves draining all water lines and insulating exposed pipes.
Q: How do I ensure privacy for my outdoor shower? A: Consider using enclosures made from wood, stone, or weather-resistant fabrics, or integrate natural elements like tall bushes or privacy screens to create a secluded space