Relying on your shower floor for soap and shampoo storage isn’t cute, especially when there are many other options. Though some complain about how dirty shower niches can become, contributor Jennifer ensures our readers that the “tile and grout stay cleaner than the floors, in my opinion, and is easier to clean.” They are also much more aesthetically pleasing than a hanging showerhead caddy or cluttered shower floor.
Expert Tips for Designing Functional and Stylish Shower Niches
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Published: February 21, 2024
Updated: January 2, 2024
We’ve all been there at some point in our lives. You’ve moved into a new home or apartment only to realize that the shower doesn’t have any storage space for our bundles of bottles, razors, and loufas. Shower niches are a clever and stylish element that maximizes the organizational capacity of your shower permanently. Their unique design can be reflective of your style, and they offer an aesthetic benefit beyond just functionality.
As with everything in the world, there are benefits and drawbacks to consider with a shower niche, including drainage potential, cleanability, and size. Many of our readers and designers with niche experience have willingly shared what has made this feature work for them, though some swear by the convenience of a tried and true showerhead caddy.
We’ve compiled the most influential tips to help you understand shower niches for your next remodel, and we can’t wait to hear about your experience with them!
02 of Placement Is Everything
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Placement is everything with shower niches. You want to ensure they are located somewhere that will stay relatively dry to protect the grout and caulk from unnecessary wear. Homeowner Sarah followed this recommendation and put their niche “on the same wall as the shower head so it does not get wet from direct spray.” She happily reports that they have not had any problems as a result.
03 of Collects Water and Gets Grimy
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Contrary to Sarah’s experience, Audrey complains that her niche constantly collects water and feels grimy. Placement is critical and situating them on a wall susceptible to direct spray will make the problem worse. Frequent cleaning can ensure there isn’t too much water buildup, but it’s an important detail to consider as this varies significantly from the results of a hanging caddy.
04 of The Taller, the Better
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If you’re a value shopper like me, you buy the biggest shampoo, conditioner, and body wash bottles available. Designer Amy suggests, “Be sure to consider the size of bottles before choosing the niche size.” This will ensure you don’t experience buyer’s remorse after the installation, and the niche can hold all your toiletries. The taller, the better, in my book!
05 of Leave Small Gap on Back for Drainage
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All shower materials drain differently, but no matter if you have ceramic tile or a marble slab, you’ll want to ensure they are properly installed to allow for drainage. Many shower basins have weep holes for that exact purpose, so leaving a gap on the back of the niche for drainage is essential. One of our readers, Evelyn, did this very thing and can report that they love their niche.
06 of Shouldn’t Leak if Done Properly
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With any area that is susceptible to high volumes of water, you want to make sure that all sealant and drainage potential have been addressed. As a niche creates a gap in the shower wall, you want to be certain that leaking isn’t an issue. Whether that means leaving a gap behind the niche cubby as mentioned above, or ensuring that you use high-quality grout, it’s important to not cut any corners in the design and installation process. If done properly, however, you’re golden.
07 of Great for Displaying Plants
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In modern society, we have become indoor beings, operating almost entirely under artificial lights and filtered air. Placing plants in bathrooms has become increasingly popular as we continue to discover the benefits of fresh air on our bodies and minds. Not only are they beautiful, but the moist air helps them thrive, unleashing unlimited health benefits for you. Especially in a bathroom that functions more as a wet room, shower niches are perfect additions for showcasing plants.
08 of Should Be Standard Practice
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One of our readers, Katie, expresses excitement for her future bathroom remodel, explaining, “Maybe the grout gets dirty, but it looks way better… Our shower doesn’t have one, but I will 10000% be putting one in.” She believes, “It’s standard practice, and it’s practical.” I agree, Katie! In addition, if you plan to sell your home, this upscale feature ensures that the individuals who move in don’t have to worry about purchasing shelving or a caddy.
09 of Small Slope for Drainage
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Investor and home renovator Wendy has extensive experience with shower niches. In her professional opinion, she ensures that her bathroom contractor “always angles them. It’s enough to get the water to run off and drain but not drastic enough to notice.” Great tip, Wendy!
10 of Lots of Space
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Ultimately, storage is the most attractive element of shower niches. They’re permanent and convenient, and when done well, ultimately they offer lots of space. Reader Sheri exclaims, “Love my niche. Worth it. Lots of space.” Doing a double stack, as this shower demonstrates, is exceptionally sleek, and the black border is a gorgeous accent piece.
Our contributors may have different ideas about shower niches, but it’s clear the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. Especially when installed correctly, they provide a sleek and stylish way to display your toiletries, making your bathroom feel luxurious and grand.
