Renovating Your Bathroom? These Sleek Shower Kits Can Save You Time and Money (2024)

Our Top Picks

The DreamLine Visions Alcove Shower Kit is a fantastic buy for those who want the convenience of a shower kit but don’t want to skip out on the customization of tiling. Since it’s just two pieces—the base and the door—you can set up the rest of the shower however you’d like. It’s ideal for customized accents and details, and its versatile nature gives you so many options.

This straightforward shower kit is also highly accessible, with a design that provides a wider entryway in and out of the shower. That innovative, low-threshold design is also ideal for anyone who’s short on space in their bathroom. The trim of the semi-frameless design is made of anodized aluminum that can be adjusted up to 1 inch per side. And because it’s nice and wide, you’ll have plenty of room to add a bench seat inside, if you’d like.

Installation is surprisingly simple—but it’ll be easier and more efficient if you have the help of an additional person. The kit comes with everything you need: the shower door and left drain base plus hardware.

_{Dimensions: 32 x 60 x 74.75 inches | Material: Acrylic, anodized aluminum | Design: Alcove}

Want a high-end look without the hassle (and expense) of tiling? There are luxurious shower kits available, as proven by the Castico Arcadia. This four-piece shower kit is made of solid composite stone that’s not only strong, durable, and lightweight, but also looks just like Carrara marble. It’s also groutless, so the whole shower looks like one continuous marble stone. Plus, this makes installation a breeze.

The shower has covetable safety features, too. The entry features a low step to prevent trips, and the shower pan has an anti-slip textured finish that looks and feels like real stone. But since it’s not actually real marble, you won’t have any of the same maintenance issues. The composite is stain- and scratch-resistant and can stand up to common household tile cleaners.

Some reviewers note that the included hardware for this shower kit isn’t the best quality. However, if you’re hoping to get a dupe for high-end stone at a lower price, this lookalike is still a worthwhile choice—and you can always swap out the included pieces for your preferred hardware, if needed.

_{Dimensions: 60 x 32 x 84 inches | Material: Composite | Design: Alcove}

With its sleek lines and standout matte black framing, the A&E Jana Pivoting Shower Door and Base Kit looks like something Joanna Gaines would install. Its modern design might even make you feel like you’re staying in a luxurious hotel rather than in your very own bathroom. The windowpane style is constructed with an anodized aluminum frame that looks sophisticated.

But this shower doesn’t just look good. The quarter-inch-thick tempered glass has substantial heft, so the pivoting doors open and close smoothly. Plus, the magnetic door creates a sturdy seal to help keep the glass panels in place and prevent any leaking. What’s more, the acrylic base has a low 2.5-inch threshold for easy entry and exit.

The kit includes everything you need for installation. You’ll get the clear glass shower door and panels, aluminum profiles, white corner shower base, and shower drain. While it does carry a higher price, this is a shower kit that’s built for style and substantive performance over time.

_{Dimensions: 48 x 36 x 75 inches | Material: Acrylic | Design: Corner}

Just because you’re going with a modular option like a shower kit doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style or function in your bathroom—and this four-piece Sterling Accord Standard Fit Shower Kit proves it. The glossy white alcove kit comes with four pieces (a base and three walls) that feature caulkless seams and snap together in a flash. It’s the perfect option for DIYers who want to complete the installation themselves. Everything makes an audible click when together, so you know you’ve done it right.

Inside the shower, there’s ample room for a 12-inch-wide seat that can be positioned on the left or right side of the shower. However, you do have to purchase this part separately. And if you prefer extra foot room, the seat can even be removed. Also nice: The walls have six built-in shelves that are perfect for a whole family’s shower essentials.

_{Dimensions: 36 x 60 x 74.5 inches | Material: Composite | Design: Alcove}

When you’re tight on space, a corner shower kit is ideal for making the most of a small bathroom remodel. The Breeze Round Corner Shower Kit from OVE Decors marries function and design, with a rounded door to maximize room without creating uncomfortable angles. The rounded design also looks a bit sleeker, adding more visual interest than your standard box shower.

The kit’s glass door is made of 6-millimeter-thick tempered glass and is reversible, so you can determine the most space-saving installation for your bathroom. Once set up, the door has a high-quality sliding mechanism for smooth opening and closing. This also helps keep moisture in and prevent leaks.

The kit comes with everything you need for installation—the door hardware, acrylic walls, and acrylic base. Just note: Some reviewers say installation is trickier than it appears, so you may want to hire a professional. The instructions can be challenging to follow, and you may find, depending on your bathroom, that you need adjustments to make fittings work and walls seamlessly fit. For small shower spaces (and with some assistance), it’s still a solid choice.

_{Dimensions: 34 x 34 x 73.25 inches | Material: Acrylic | Design: Corner}

If you’re rehabbing an existing shower or want the flexibility to customize a portion of your shower with your own tiles, Vigo’s Winslow Frameless Shower Enclosure is a great option. It’s designed for a curbless shower complete with two pre-tiled walls. As such, it comes with two very sleek tempered glass panels, a glass door, and the stainless steel hardware required for mounting. (There’s no base included, so keep that in mind, too.) You’ll have the ability to add your own tile, create custom walls, or flex any other creative freedom you’d like on the shower walls; this kit will take care of almost everything else.

The unit also comes with a stainless steel drain and wall mounting brackets to make the glass panels and door durable enough to stand up to daily use. There’s flexibility in design, too. The pre-drilled tempered glass door is reversible—install it to open to the left or to the right, whatever suits your space the best. The use of RollerDisk technology also allows for adjustments as needed.

However, you’ll want to make sure to double-check the parts once this shower kit arrives. In some cases, users have received incorrect parts inside their boxes. It can be a small frustration, but it’s one that’s relatively easy to fix, should it happen.

_{Dimensions: 34.625 x 46.5 x 74 inches | Material: Not listed | Design: Corner}

Families with kids will likely want to add a tub to their shower space, and it’s totally possible to get a great combination product with the Bootz Industries Maui NexTile Standard Fit Alcove Bath and Shower Kit. The kit features a heavy-duty tub with a slip-resistant surface plus three glossy walls that are easy to clean. The four-piece kit doesn’t include any of the plumbing fixtures, but you get everything else you need to create a near-finished product. Not to mention, installation is exceptionally easy. There’s no mortar base required—you simply set and level it.

The tub itself is highly functional, too. The manufacturer claims it’s the industry's deepest enameled steel bathtub. It also has a modern recessed design, complete with 35-degree lumbar support for a more comfortable experience. And if you’re showering, the tub features a slip-resistant surface to keep you safe. Also nice: The back wall has a generously sized storage niche built right into it. Do keep in mind, though, that this shower kit works best with a shower curtain; its sloped walls make getting a glass door installed difficult.

_{Dimensions: 30 x 60 x 76.5 inches | Material: Porcelain-enameled steel | Design: Alcove}

If you’re willing to make a bigger investment, you can turn your bathroom into so much more than a necessity—you can create a relaxing spa-like environment and upgrade your shower to a steam shower. The Jupiter Plus Steam Shower Kit is an all-in-one steam shower setup that replaces a typical-sized bathtub with a simple yet luxurious alternative. This kit comes with a 3.5-kilowatt steam generator, so once installed the shower will produce steam in under one minute.

It’s all very simple to control. A built-in digital control panel controls the temperature. Of course, the unit has additional functionality. You can use it as a steam shower, rain shower, or handheld shower. You’ll also love the extra perks, like mood lighting, an audio system, and an aromatherapy reservoir, which allows you to enjoy your favorite essential oils while taking a steam shower.

Despite all of this, cleaning isn’t difficult. Simply pour your preferred cleaning product into the cleaning port. Installation is another thing, though. Because of the various functionalities, you’ll need a professional to install this shower kit. Additionally, this is a very expensive pick; however, the long list of handy, functional features makes it a shower kit that goes above and beyond.

_{Dimensions: 43 x 31 x 86 inches | Material: Not listed | Design: Corner}

If you have a swimming pool or live near the beach, you’ll love the option of having an outdoor shower for both cleansing and changing before heading inside the house. We love the Zippity Outdoor Products Vinyl Hampton Outdoor Shower Kit because it has a very flexible freestanding design that can be installed just about anywhere you can run plumbing.

With this kit, you’ll get three walls and a hinged door, as well as four sturdy posts and a ceiling (though you don’t have to use this part if you’d prefer a more open-air shower). When assembled, the white vinyl looks sleek and blends nicely with just about any outdoor patio or yard aesthetic. Unfortunately, the kit does have one drawback. Reviewers note that it arrives missing a few elements you’ll need for proper installation: It lacks ground-mounting brackets to keep it in place, and it doesn’t include a shower head or plumbing parts.

_{Dimensions: 62 x 47 x 89 inches | Material: Vinyl | Design: Freestanding}

Despite the budget-friendly price, the Jetcoat 5-Piece Shower Kit is exceptionally functional. It doesn’t skimp on style or durability, as its acrylic walls are water-, scratch-, and stain-resistant. Plus, the shower pan has a textured base that’s meant to help prevent slips. The walk-in shower also has a low threshold to prevent you from tripping when you go in and out.

It’s a great option for small renovations, too. The whole thing can be installed over waterproof backer board or existing tile. All you have to do is spend a few hours measuring, cutting, and adhering the whole thing to the wall (and the walls are easy to trim to size!). Just note: This affordably priced kit doesn’t come with any accessories—including a shower door, rod, or curtain. You’ll also need to purchase a drain separately, which can drive up the cost slightly.

_{Dimensions: 32 x 60 x 78 inches | Material: Acrylic | Design: Alcove}

Final Verdict

FAQ

• Is it cheaper to tile a shower or buy a kit?

  Industry experts say a shower/tub kit is definitively cheaper than doing a regular tile shower remodel that includes tile, a base, and walls. The latter requires more materials and workmanship, which drives up the cost; it also takes longer to construct and install. That said, shower kits typically aren’t quite as sophisticated and customizable, though they are budget-friendly.

• Which is better for a shower kit: fiberglass or acrylic?

  In general, acrylic is considered the superior material. “Acrylic is stronger than fiberglass,” Jerry Bradbury, master plumber for A1 Sewer and Drain, says. “Acrylic also resists scratches, cracking, and fading better than fiberglass.”
  

• Can I install a shower kit myself?

  If you have basic DIY skills, you can install a shower kit yourself—doing so is easier than tiling an entire shower. “However, a professional plumber is recommended, as alterations to water and drainage may be required,” Bradbury says.
  

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