Space is often an issue when adding a walk-in shower to a bathroom hence it may be impossible to add a tiled shower bench. This is where a foldable or easily removable shower bench or seat comes in. It is cost-effective and helps to maximize the space.

Adding shower seats and benches to walk-in showers is an impressive move with diverse benefits for all members of the family. A shower bench or seat offers elders and people with mobility or balance challenges much-needed extra safety while younger people have the comfort of having a place to shave their legs. For all, extra storage space is provided.

Shower Benches and Seats

Different kinds of water-resistant materials are used for making shower seats and benches. They can either be freestanding or installed into the wall of the shower. The sizes and shapes vary.

Benefits of Shower Benches and Seats in a Walk-In Shower

Safety

One of the biggest advantages of shower benches or seats is the security they offer many people. For example, older people will have lower chances of falling in the bathroom. They can simply sit while they wash.

Functionality

Shower benches or seats serve multiple purposes such as a place to hang towels, store items, as well as to raise your foot for shaving or washing.

Cost-effectiveness and space-saving

Shower seats or benches are foldable or can be easily removed hence are suitable for small spaces. They are also cost-effective.

Common materials used for shower benches or seats

Teak: the tight grain and high oil content of teak make it an ideal material for shower seats or benches.

Bamboo: the extreme versatility of bamboo always shines through. It is highly weather-resistant and popularly used for making furniture, cabinetry, etc. It requires more maintenance than teak because of its vulnerability to mold. It must also be treated to prevent rot and insects.

Plastic and metal: these materials require minimal maintenance; no need to oil them up. It is a case where function comes before form because they are not as appealing as other options.

Review of some of the best shower benches and seats

There are so many shower benches and seats that choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This article gives a shortlist of some of the best alongside details to make it easier for you to choose.

Sumba 30” Teak Shower Bench with Shelf

This bench is similar to the original Asia bench, featuring the best quality teak. It is 30 inches wide, providing more than enough space to sit comfortably. It is designed like a teak bath bench used in a spa. It also has a shelf for storing varying items, including tall bottles.

It is suitable for any bathroom with a natural theme.

Specs

• Rubber grip for feet stability
• Maximum weight capacity of 250 lbs
• Highly durable
• Easy assembly
• Dimensions – 39” * 13” * 18”

Verdict: it is a cool and highly durable shower bench with ample space to store items. It is quite wide but there’s an 18” model more suited to small spaces.

EarthyTeak 2-Tier Compact Teak Corner Shower

These are perfect shower benches for small spaces. They are designed to leverage spaces that typically go unused in your shower.

Specs

• Space-saving
• Adjustable and anti-slip feet
• Comes with shelf
• Maximum weight capacity of 150 lbs
• Dimensions – 12” * 12” * 18”

Verdict: if you have unused corners in your walk-in shower, this bench is a great choice.

Irish 18” Shower Bench

This circular shower bench is made of teak, making it very durable and easy to maintain. The design is very sturdy, supporting up to 250 lbs. The feet are both adjustable and anti-slip. It does not have a shelf.

Specs

• Adjustable and anti-slip feet
• Maximum weight capacity of 250 lbs
• Dimensions – 18” * 18”
• No shelf

Verdict: This sturdy teak bench is suitable for different sizes of showers. If you have a provision for storing items, you will find this very useful. If you need a shelf, go for an Irish 18” Teak Shower Bench with Shelf.

The Original Kai 15.5” Teak Shower Bench

It is designed to add a unique appearance to the corners of your shower. This ideal walk-in shower bench takes maximum advantage of the corner space of your shower. The 15.5” dimension is based on measurement from the corner of the bench to the edge. It will fit perfectly into the corner of your shower as though it was specifically made for it.

Specs

• Adjustable, rubber padded feet
• Maximum weight limit of 250 lbs
• Dimension – 15.5” * 15.5” * 18”
• Assembly is easy

Verdict: it is an excellent shower bench for small spaces. If you want something bigger, consider The Original Kai 22” Corner Teak Shower Bench.

Essential Medical Supply shower bench

This is an excellent shower seat for elders and people with limited mobility. It comes with padded armrests that keep users safe and make standing up easier. If you take your time in the shower, this is a good choice for you.

Aluminum is used for the frame hence you don’t have to worry about any rusting issues. The seat is large and textured, ensuring users don’t slip off the chair. It is able to support up to 300 pounds of weight.

Specs

• Basic design
• Rust-resistant aluminum frame
• Large, textured seat
• Padded armrests
• Adjustable
• Budget-friendly

Verdict: it is an ideal basic shower chair for long, relaxing showers. It is perfect for elders.

Pcp padded bath shower safety seat

This is another excellent shower seat for people with limited mobility. It is designed for a comfortable, relaxing, and above all safe shower. It features a unique cut-out at the center of the seat, making it easier to keep it clean. It also has a non-slip feet grip to prevent slippage and falls during a shower.

The backrest is removable and the seat is padded. It is compact and hence will easily fit into most bathrooms yet it is sturdy enough to support a wide range of users.

Specs

• Compact and lightweight
• Padded seat and removable backrest
• Grips to the floor
• Easy assembly
• Budget-friendly

Verdict: it is an ideal shower seat for small bathrooms and very safe for all users.

Paradise Teak Wood Folding Shower Seat

This folding shower seat is highly suitable for all dimensions of walk-in showers. It can be easily folded when not in use. It is very sturdy, able to support 325 lbs.

Specs

• Foldable
• Maximum weight capacity of 325 lbs
• Dimension – 16” * 13” * 17”

Verdict: if you want a very flexible shower bench, this is recommended.

Meon Wall-Mount Teak Shower Seat

This shower seat is a more permanent solution. The installation requires drilling through stone and tiles. It is very sturdy hence you will not have any reason to change it any time soon. If mounted properly, it can support up to 300 lbs of weight.

Specs

• Very sturdy
• Drilling is required
• Maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs

Verdict: if properly mounted, you have a shower seat that will last a long time.

AquaTeak Kai Corner Teak Foot Stool

This is different from other shower benches and seats on this list. It is designed primarily for the foot, not for sitting. It is perfect for lifting your feet to shave or wash your legs. This small footstool is made of teak.

Specs

• Small and sturdy
• Anti-slip feet
• Dimensions – 12” * 12” * 13”

Verdict: if you need something primarily to prop your feet for washing or shaving, this footstool is recommended. Users with moderate weight can perhaps sit on it but it definitely won’t be convenient.

Welcare 100% Natural Bamboo Folding Bench

Bamboo benches are easy to maintain, especially if treated. This folding bench is small, fitting perfectly into any shower. It’s sturdy enough to support 200 lbs of weight.

Specs

• Maximum weight capacity of 200lbs
• Dimensions – 17” * 13.2” * 17.6”

Verdict: it is recommended for all sizes of showers.

Dr. Kay’s Adjustment shower bench

This lightweight and adaptable bench can be adjusted to your preferred height. It features more robust feet than those teak benches on this list. It is among the most popular shower benches – durable and affordable.

Specs

• Lightweight
• Perfect for smaller tubs and showers
• Non-slip rubber feet
• Height can be adjusted between 12.5” to 18.5”
• Maximum weight capacity of 250 lbs
• The assembly is easy

Verdict: it is recommended for people looking for a highly adjustable and functional shower bench.

Vaunn Medical Shower Chair with removable back

This compact shower chair features a removable back, adjustable height, a maximum weight of 300 lbs, and drainage holes in the seat.

Conclusion

Shower benches and seats are an amazing addition to a walk-in shower, adding both functionality and aesthetics. Some of the best benches, seats, and footstools you can invest in are reviewed above.