Teak shower benches come in two basic shapes: straight benches that sit against a flat wall, and corner benches that tuck into the corner where two walls meet. Both do the same job, giving you a steady place to sit, but they suit different showers and different routines. Here is how to choose.
The quick answer
- Choose a corner bench if your shower is small (around 30" to 36"), floor space is tight, or you mainly need a spot to rest a foot while shaving or washing.
- Choose a straight bench if you want to sit comfortably for longer, need more storage, have a walk-in shower, or want a bench you can also use outside the shower.
Corner shower benches
A corner bench has a seat shaped to fit a 90-degree corner, so it uses space that is usually empty. That makes it the best choice for compact showers where a straight bench would get in the way.
Pros
- Takes up the least usable floor space
- Very stable, since it sits between two walls
- Ideal height and size for propping up a foot to shave or wash
- Many models add a lower shelf or a built-in soap dish
Things to consider
- A smaller seat, better for short sits than for long, relaxed ones
- Needs a clear, square corner with no drain, niche or door in the way
Our corner benches include the popular Saga (16"), the Cosima (16", rustic gray), the Loki (16", with built-in soap dish) and the Ra (17.5", with built-in soap dish and a center support leg).
The Saga corner bench fits into unused corner space and adds a storage shelf below the seat.
Straight shower benches
A straight bench sits along a flat wall. It offers a larger, more comfortable seat and works in almost any shower with enough wall length.
Pros
- A bigger seat that is comfortable for longer sits
- More storage on the lower shelf
- Fits against any flat wall, so placement is flexible
- Doubles as bathroom, bedroom or entryway seating
Things to consider
- Uses more floor space, so it may crowd a very small shower
- Choose the width carefully; see our shower bench size guide
Popular straight benches include the 21" Hermod, the 24" Eske and the 30" Freya.
A straight bench like the 24" Eske gives a larger seat and a full-length shelf.
Side-by-side comparison
| Corner bench | Straight bench | |
|---|---|---|
| Best shower size | Small, about 30" to 36" | 36" and up, walk-ins |
| Floor space used | Minimal | Moderate |
| Seat comfort | Good for short sits and foot rests | Best for sitting longer |
| Storage | Small shelf or soap dish | Full-length shelf |
| Placement | Needs a clear square corner | Any flat wall, inside or outside the shower |
Can you use both?
Yes, and in a larger walk-in shower it works well: a straight bench for sitting and a corner bench or a 3-tier teak corner shelf for bottles and a foot rest. Matching teak pieces make the shower feel like a coordinated spa space.
Frequently asked questions
Is a corner shower bench comfortable to sit on?
For short sits, yes. Corner benches have a smaller seat than straight benches, so if you want to sit for most of your shower, a straight bench will be more comfortable.
Which is better for a small shower?
Usually a corner bench, because it uses space between two walls that is otherwise empty and leaves the center of the shower free for standing.
Which is better for seniors?
Many older adults prefer a straight bench for its larger seat. If you are choosing for an aging parent, see our guide to choosing a teak shower bench for seniors.
Do corner benches need to be attached to the wall?
No. TeakCraft corner benches are freestanding and arrive fully assembled, with adjustable rubber feet to keep them level and stable.
Need help choosing? Send us your shower measurements or call +1 877-661-9293 and we'll recommend the right bench.
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