A simple box-like structure with a shower tray can fit into all but the smallest bathroom area, but those with bathrooms that are more specious may choose to have larger walk-in shower units, or even to install a wet room.  With the choice of jet-sprays, an outsize showerhead and the addition of durable wet walls, perhaps made from a marble finish, wet rooms fitted with wet room glass panels are the height of showering luxury.

Some people choose not to have a shower in their bathroom, even if it is neatly fitted above the bath.  Complete with a bath panel or shower curtains, a shower can be a very useful addition to your daily hygiene.  Relaxing in a long bath can be an opportunity to pamper you, and to soak in the lovely smells of essential oils, bath bombs or bubble bath to wash away the aches, pains and cares of the day.  However, when you are in a rush, and especially when you want to wake up from a night’s rest ready to meet the rigours of your working day, you cannot beat a session in a thorough, exhilarating shower.

LED Showerheads

This trend started with the LED technology used in TV sets, but has since spread into bathrooms across the world.  Reminiscent of spa experiences, these luxury models shower bathers in LED light, so that they can enjoy colour therapy as well as a unique shower experience.  Blue means the water is cold and the colour gradually shifts to red as it heats up.

Anti-Scald Showerheads

Ever turn the water temperature to boiling hot to make it warm-up faster, only to be suddenly greeted with boiling water that leaves the skin burnt?  Anti-scald showerheads automatically reduce the water-flow when the temperature reaches an unsafe level.  Water can easily be stopped and restarted as required.

Rain Showerheads

Would you prefer an experience that promotes wellness?  Rain showerheads are all the rage and are making their way into more and more shower enclosures.  Most models feature hydro massage systems and mimic a soothing, natural rainfall experience.  Since rain showerheads tend to consume more water than a standard one, you should look for eco-friendly models.

However, for the design conscious homeowner the classic cubicle does not always cut the mustard.  So what are some exciting alternatives to shower enclosures?

One popular choice in modern shower designs is the wet room.  The wet room removes the need for shower enclosures entirely since the whole bathroom is designed to be used as an open plan shower space.  Partial enclosures in a wet room can be created using partitions, or even innovative beaded curtains to create an element of privacy in this open area.

For those who prefer to keep their shower corralled, there are a range of alternative shower enclosures.  Why not consider building a cubicle from glass brick – allowing for the free passage of light while at the same time denoting the permanence of the unit in a way that prefabricated cubicles simply cannot achieve.

If you like the idea of an industrial inspired space then the ultra modern finish of a steel shower enclosure could be the right choice for you.

Whatever your taste, it is possible to create a unique shower space that suits your style.

Today, the term shower accessories means much more than the bare necessities.  Shower accessories also encompass a range of items including everything from hanging bars (which can be attached to either the shower curtain rod or even shower doors), to shower caddies and shower mirrors.  Shower caddies are tiny shelves, usually fitted near the showerhead, which are both easy to fit and ideal for keeping items which are often used by people while they are taking a shower, such as shampoo and conditioners, soap and possibly even a razor and blades for shaving.  Most people would have trouble shaving without a bathroom mirror, and the shower mirror has become one of the newest innovations in shower accessories.  These mirrors can be easily attached to the inside of the electric shower enclosure with suction cups and, very importantly, do not steam up around hot water.

In addition to shower mirrors, the latest “must have” item for the more ecologically minded is the shower meter, which actually lets people keep a check of how much water they are using when they shower.

Beyond clogging problems, a showerhead is riddled with nooks and crannies perfect for growing bacteria and harmful microbes.  For those with immune system problems, a clean showerhead is important.  For others, a clean showerhead is still a good idea.

Metal showerheads and shower accessories are easier to keep free of bacteria growth.  A filtering showerhead is also a smart choice, since it allows you to remove and replace the filter, thus keeping your water clean and flowing at full volume.  Otherwise, removing the showerhead and soaking it in bleach is the best option.

To clean an electric showerhead, you will need to take special precautions.  The electrical source must first be switched off on the circuit breaker, and then the showerhead twisted free.  It is not safe to remove the showerhead with the power still running, so be careful.   Once the showerhead has been removed, soak it in vinegar to dislodge the mineral deposits.  The entire head must be submerged for this to be effective.  Rinse the showerhead in cold water, and then reassemble.

Keeping your shower cubicle and shower accessories clean is very important, so take steps to maintain your showerhead’s cleanliness and effectiveness.

Shower seats are convenient, add safety to your shower enclosure, and provide comfort.  Shower seats are made of water-repellent materials to discourage the growth of mould and mildew.  Once you have decided to purchase a shower seat, there are many options to choose from.

There are four types of shower seat: freestanding, permanent, retractable, and wheeled.  A freestanding shower seat is a portable chair or stool that can be moved in or out of your shower cubicle. It might have arms or a back, and should be lightweight.

A permanent shower seat is built into the shower and may have a granite, marble, or ceramic seat.  The retractable seat is also built into your shower, with a hinged foldaway option to allow more space when it’s not being used. Wheeled shower seats, or commode chairs, are specially designed for the disabled to wheel in and out of the shower enclosure.

Whatever style you choose, a shower seat could be a needed accessory in your new shower cubicle.

A prefabricated shower enclosure, including shower accessories and a pre-made shower tray, can all be bought together.  Minimal installation is usually required for such models.  These overlay existing walls and can be more costly than a do-it-yourself version.

To customize your new shower cubicle, you can opt to build the walls into your bathroom.  More labour is involved, and a professional contractor might need to be hired, but you’ll retain the flexibility of the final outcome.  Custom designs are also a good idea for odd-shaped spaces or corner shower enclosures.

Shower cubicles have different drainage and waterproofing requirements than a traditional shower and bath unit.  A fitted shower tray and proper sealing will eliminate leakage.  A drainage system needs to be run beneath the floor to lead shower waste toward the pipes and out of the plumbing system.  Professionals can easily make these changes to your existing bathroom and help you prepare for your new installation.

Once the walls, showerhead, valves, drain, and shower door are ready to go, other items can be added and customized.  Seating and hand grips are available for those who need extra support.  Slip-proof flooring can also be added for safety.  With these shower accessories, it is easy to see why a shower cubicle makes sense for many individuals.

A bi-fold shower door is essentially a shower door with two panels that can be moved independently.  The panels hang from overhead attachments, allowing them to fold on a hinge when pulled open.  The foldaway door panels leave more space for you to walk in and out of the shower.

Bi-fold shower doors are available framed or frameless.  The framed varieties have metal supports around each panel and are very sturdy and durable.  The frameless version is made of thick glass, for a more modern look.  Both are practical alternatives to a single-panel door under the right circumstances.

To install bi-fold shower doors in your bathroom, you need only have a track.  The doors hang from the upper portion of the track, so that they can glide easily along the bottom portion of the track.  Once the track is in place, bi-fold shower doors are very easy to install.  You can choose whether your bi-fold door opens inward, outward, or in both directions when you install it.

The glass panels are also easy to clean and maintain.  The tracks can be wiped clean, and the panels require only a basic household cleaner.  With the extra saved space, it is also very easy to manoeuvre around them.

While pricey, rain shower heads are high-end and run the gambit of different styles and designs. One popular method is multi-shower heads mounted at different levels for a full massage effect, another is a ceiling mounted head for a full rain effect, and others are part of a spa system, where the shower converts to a sauna.

However, because of their size and extraordinary features, rain shower heads require more room than a traditional shower head. If you’re looking for a LED light experience or a mix of rain and air in the shower, there needs to be approximately 32 inches allowed for the shower head.

For a decadent shower, consider the arm mounted rain shower head which can be mounted anywhere. Then the arm is positioned for the greatest freedom of adjustability. However, arm mounted rain shower heads are better suited for those who like an exposed industrial design in the bathroom. 

For more function and versatility in design, a ceiling mount recessed into the ceiling creates a more traditional or classic look.

A rain shower head is not just an appliance, it is an experience. It may just make you hum every time you shower.

Shower trays form the base of a shower and are an ideal solution for a shower enclosure with odd angles or design. Quadrant and offset trays are widely available and fit in nicely with the minimalist or modern shower design. Another quality that makes them attractive is that they take up less floor space in comparison to regular shower trays, yet compare favourably in cost and quality.

There are other factors to consider with all shower trays. Make sure you choose one with a non-slippery surface. Take careful measurements of the bathroom floor and the height of the bathroom, so that you choose the right size. Quadrant and offset quadrant trays do require a higher drainage system, and if you have opted for a high pressure shower, you must consider the depth of the shower tray before making your purchase.

The quadrant and offset quadrant shower trays will certainly add a distinct and attractive flair to the look of your design. Bathroom suppliers like UK Bathrooms can help you choose the right shower tray for your bathroom.