Before You Buy shower equipment, consider these points:
Shower Trays
Stepped access: Shower trays can vary in height and are generally between 25mm and 40mm high, although they are sometimes raised on a plinth. They range in size form 800mm x 800mm up to 1800mm x 900mm. These are available from most plumber’s merchants and are fitted on the floor with a step onto the tray. Depending on the height of the step, good balance and mobility are required to step into the tray.
Level access: These are completely level with the floor for easy access. The tray is installed into the existing wood or concrete floor to provide true ‘level access’. This makes it easier to walk in or use a wheeled seat and provides a larger showering area. Non-slip vinyl flooring is laid directly on top so the flooring is continuous in the whole room. Level access bases can replace a bath and require underfloor drainage. If gravity drainage (gentle slope towards drain) cannot be achieved then a shower waste pump is included with the installation. Although level access shower rooms are often called ‘wet rooms’, the main arear of the room that gets wet is the shower area and not the rest of the room.
Enclosed shower units: These are installed as a complete unit, including wall panels and shower doors. They typically have a step-up onto the tray or can have a ramped entrance. These units are ideal for providing a facility in a bedroom if close proximity to the shower is needed. They are available in a variety of options and can include a shower, toilet and basin. Sizes range from 1200mm x 800mm up to 1700mm x 900mm.
Other Shower Features
Shower screens: Half-height fixed screens or half-height doors with a curtain can help avoid water spillage and protect carers from getting wet while assisting with washing. Full-height screens do not allow carer assistance and may feel claustrophobic for the user.
Non-slip flooring: Essential for level access showers due to safety, hygiene and durability, but it can also be used as general bathroom flooring.
Shower Seat: Free-standing or wall-mounted shower seat options can increase safety and independence. See the next page for more information on shower seat options.
Position of shower controls: The ideal position for the shower seat to be places, is at a 90-degree angle to the shower controls and the showerhead for easier reach.
Shower controls: A shower with thermostatic control allows consistent water temperature. Check that the shower is not too powerful for the user to tolerate, and ensure the user can see, understand and operate the controls. Simple lever-operated or push-button shower controls. Shower controls can also be operated remotely.
Shower riser pole: An extra long riser pole allows the shower head to slide low enough for a seated shower or high enough for a standing shower. This is particularly useful if the shower is used by different people in the house.
Shower hose: A longer 2-metre shower hose is useful when someone requires assistance with washing from a carer.
Grab rails: Grab rails fitted on the wall provide support when getting in and out of the shower. See our guide on grab rail before you buy for more information.
See our list kitchen and bathroom adaptation specialists.
Disabled Facilities Grant
The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a means-tested grant that may be available for shower installations in owner-occupied and housing association properties. The amount of assistance offered can vary from 0% to 100% of the cost (parents of children with disabilities are not means-tested). Charity grants may also be available to assist with the cost of shower installation, though these are usually means-tested.
Standing to have a shower can be difficult if you have problems with balance or breathlessness. There are several shower seat options you can consider to make showering easier and safer.
Shower Seats
Over-bath shower seat: Shower boards or swivel seats can be installed over the bath to enable a safe seated transfer in and out of the bath and to provide a seated position for showering. For safety, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Many models are removable when not in use, but some can be securely fixed with wall brackets, making them ideal for baths with unusual shapes.
- Check if the shower screen will close when there is a seat in place, or if the screen needs replacing with a shower curtain.
- Check if the showerhead can be reached from a seated position. An additional fixed or suction showerhead holder can be installed in a convenient position, allowing for easy use while seated.
Free-standing shower seats: Free-standing shower seats are a versatile option for shower cubicles. Some models are height-adjustable and some come with a seat cut out, which can make washing easier. For added support, some seats have a backrest and armrests, although these features may slightly limit movement during washing. Shower seats can have a flat or a perched seat. Flat seats tend to require a larger shower tray in order to fit safely. Shower perching stools are designed with a sloped seat and should be adjusted to ensure the user can comfortably perch, putting weight through their legs with feet firmly on the floor. A perched position makes standing up easier and helps with washing personal areas. Some shower seats are designed to fit into the corner with an adjustable back leg that can be adjusted to sit onto the lip of the shower tray. This is a good option for smaller shower cubicles.
Wall-mounted shower seats: Wall-mounted shower seats are a good option for more confined spaces as they are securely fix to the wall and can be folded up against the wall when not in use. Some models come with fold-down legs for added stability and support. The seat height is set to ensure the user’s feet are flat on the floor when seated, and it is at a comfortable height for standing. Some models also feature a backrest and armrests for extra comfort and support.
- For safety, these seats must be installed by a qualified professional.
Wheeled shower seats: Wheeled shower seats are designed for use with a level-access shower tray. Wheeled shower seats can be either self-propelling with large wheels, or attendant-propelled with smaller wheels. Before choosing a wheeled shower seat, make sure there is enough space to manoeuvre it into the bathroom, through doors, and around corners. These shower seats often have helpful features such as: drainage holes, cut-outs for easier washing, and the option to sue them as a seat over the toilet. Many also come with removable or fold-away armrests and footrests. If the user has difficulty with sitting safely, some models offer a tilt-in-space option and additional support like harnesses, or lateral supports.