Why You Should Add a Shower Bench to Your Bathroom Remodel

There are numerous benefits of adding a shower bench to your bathroom. Let’s explore a few of them to help you decide whether it’s the right choice for your space. 

1. Accessibility

If you have mobility challenges, disabilities, or difficulty standing for long periods, a shower bench can make your bathroom more accessible. It provides a stable, supportive surface to sit on while showering, offering much-needed relief and safety. 

For those who rely on wheelchairs or other mobility aids, a bench can allow for easier transfers in and out of the shower, so it’s easier to maintain personal hygiene routines and independence. A shower bench also helps caregivers assist loved ones more comfortably, minimizing physical strain. 

2. Increased Safety

Safety is one of the most important reasons to add a shower bench to your bathroom. Around 80% of senior falls happen in the bathroom, and showers are especially dangerous, with a higher risk of slips. A bench provides a secure place to sit, significantly reducing the risk of falls and injuries in a wet, slippery environment. 

Standing for an entire shower can be risky and exhausting for people with limited mobility. A bench offers a safer alternative, allowing individuals to sit comfortably while still maintaining their independence in the shower. The simple fact is that in homes where safety is a top concern, a shower bench is an essential update that provides peace of mind.

3. Enhanced Comfort

Adding a bench to your shower brings a level of comfort that elevates your bathing experience into something more luxurious. Rather than standing the entire time, a bench allows you to sit back and relax, whether you’re enjoying a long, soothing shower after a hard day or using the bench to support grooming activities like shaving. 

The ability to sit down offers an opportunity to slow down and transform your shower into a more spa-like retreat, allowing you to perform personal care tasks without putting a strain on your body. This added comfort can turn your shower into a place to unwind, providing a serene moment of calm in an otherwise busy life. 

4. Convenience

Shower benches are also incredibly convenient for a variety of everyday uses. They offer a handy spot to place items like shampoo and soap, which keeps everything within arm’s reach. While many people believe a shower bench only benefits those with physical limitations, it’s truly a practical feature for anyone looking to make their shower routine smoother and more efficient. 

Whether you’re juggling a busy morning routine or want a place to relax during an evening shower, a bench helps keep your space more organized and comfortable. 

5. Increased Home Value

Investing in home safety updates like a shower bench may help increase your home value when you decide to sell. Homebuyers are often attracted to thoughtful upgrades that enhance functionality and comfort, and a shower bench is a small but impactful feature. A bench adds a touch of luxury to your bathroom and shows potential buyers that the space is designed with accessibility in mind, which can appeal to a broader demographic. 

In homes where aging-in-place or multigenerational living is a priority, accessible features like shower benches become a valuable selling point. Additionally, a stylish, built-in bench can boost your bathroom’s design aesthetic, making the whole room look more polished. 

6. Injury Recovery

A shower bench can be a lifesaver for those recovering from surgery, an injury, or a medical condition. Having the ability to sit down while showering helps reduce physical strain, making the process safer and less exhausting. When recovering from an injury, standing for an extended period can be difficult, if not impossible. Add in a wet shower floor, and your risk of further injury increases. 

If you’re recovering from a broken bone, surgery, or dealing with a chronic condition like arthritis, a shower bench can make daily routines more manageable, aiding in the healing process without compromising comfort or safety. 

7. Design Appeal 

As part of a thoughtful remodel, a shower bench isn’t just functional; it can also enhance your bathroom’s overall design. With a wide variety of styles and materials available, it’s easy to find a bench that complements your aesthetic. 

Built-in benches offer a clean, seamless appearance, blending into the shower design, while freestanding models can add a touch of elegance and flexibility. By choosing an option that aligns with your bathroom’s theme, a shower bench can contribute to a luxurious, cohesive look that turns an ordinary shower into a well-designed space.