Walk in shower sizes impact more than just looks, they influence accessibility, ease of maintenance, and how open your bathroom feels. But if you’re planning a remodel, one question will guide everything else: What size should your walk in shower be?
The right size walk in shower balances function, space, and comfort. Whether you’re upgrading from a tub, creating a new master suite, or designing for accessibility, understanding common shower dimensions helps you avoid costly mistakes and plan more confidently.
What Is a Walk In Shower?
A walk in shower is a type of shower that has no doors or a very low threshold, offering seamless access. Some are enclosed on three sides with an open entrance, while others are completely open. This design is popular in modern homes and is especially beneficial for homeowners planning to age in place or anyone with mobility needs.
Walk in showers come in a wide range of sizes. There is no one-size-fits-all layout—your available space, needs, and bathroom design will determine the best fit.
Minimum Walk In Shower Size Requirements
The smallest walk in shower size that meets most building codes is 30″ x 30″. However, this is not ideal for comfort or practical use. Many homeowners find this dimension too restrictive for daily routines.
A better starting point for comfort is 36″ x 36″. This provides just enough room to move around without feeling cramped and is more practical for long-term use. If your design includes a curbless or doorless shower, depth becomes even more important—showers shorter than 42″ in depth can lead to water escaping into the rest of your bathroom.
Important: A deeper shower floor can help guide water back toward the drain, especially in doorless or barrier-free designs.
Common Walk In Shower Sizes Found in Homes
If you’re replacing an old tub or planning a remodel, you’ll likely choose from several standard sizes that work for most single-user households:
- 36″ x 36″ – Good for tight spaces or corner installations.
- 48″ x 36″ – Offers extra width for comfort and storage options like built-in niches.
- 60″ x 36″ – A common choice for tub-to-shower conversions. Provides ample space for movement and accessibility.
- 60″ x 42″ or 60″ x 48″ – Expands comfort, adds layout flexibility, and accommodates built-in seating or spa features.
These common sizes make the most of an average bathroom footprint without requiring extensive remodeling. If you’re unsure, the 60″ width is especially versatile and fits standard tub alcove sizes.
Ideal Sizes for Luxury or Accessibility
If you have a larger bathroom or want to create a spa-like experience, you can go even bigger. Homeowners who want more space or need accessible features often choose walk in showers sized:
- 72″ x 48″ – Ideal for two people or a full luxury layout with seating and multiple showerheads.
- 60″ x 60″ – Meets ADA recommendations for roll-in access and easier mobility.
- 36″ x 60″ – Works well in bathrooms where depth is limited but accessibility is a must.
Larger walk in showers also allow for features like rainfall heads, handheld sprayers, floating benches, and stylish glass panels without sacrificing space.
Pro Tip: The more space you have, the more features and layout options become available. Bigger isn’t just better, it’s more adaptable.
What to Consider When Choosing Your Walk In Shower Size
The best size depends on your bathroom layout and how you’ll use the space. Consider the following:
- Room dimensions: Measure carefully and account for existing fixtures, plumbing, and door swings.
- Who will use it: Is this your master bath or a guest bath? Will someone need mobility support now or later?
- Water management: Deep showers are better for curbless or open designs. Use tile slopes and barriers wisely.
- Future upgrades: Planning for aging in place? Leave space for grab bars or a bench now.
Working with a pro can help you visualize the space before committing. Measurements must account for tile thickness, framing, and slopes to ensure the finished product fits perfectly.
Plan With the Shower Remodeling Experts
Bath Planet New Mexico helps homeowners across the state design and install walk in showers that fit their lifestyles and bathrooms perfectly. Whether you’re starting from scratch or replacing a tub, we’ll help you understand your layout options and the best size to choose.
With our one day remodel process, you get a custom solution without weeks of downtime. From Albuquerque to Rio Rancho, Santa Fe, Los Lunas, and beyond, we’re your walk in shower partner for comfort, beauty, and long-term value.
Call (505) 500-1669 today to schedule your consultation or visit our Albuquerque showroom to see walk in shower options in person.