The right shower bench should feel like it belongs in your shower: big enough to sit on comfortably, small enough that you can still stand, turn and step in and out without bumping into it. The good news is that choosing a size takes about two minutes with a tape measure. This guide shows you how to measure, which bench widths fit common shower sizes, and what you gain or give up with each size.
Step 1: Measure your shower
- Width of the wall where the bench will sit. Most people place a bench against the back wall or a side wall, away from the door.
- Depth of the shower from that wall to the door or glass.
- Obstacles: note the drain, a sloped floor, a curb or threshold, a niche or the swing path of a glass door.
For reference, common shower stalls in U.S. homes are 32" x 32" and 36" x 36", walk-in showers are often 36" x 42" up to 48" x 48" or larger, and the smallest size allowed by the International Residential Code is 30" x 30".
Step 2: Leave room to stand
A bench only helps if you can still move around it. Our TeakCraft benches are 12.5 to 14 inches deep, so they take up only a narrow strip of floor. A practical rule of thumb: choose a bench that covers no more than about two-thirds of the wall it sits against, and make sure you can stand comfortably in front of it under the shower head.
Step 3: Match the bench to your shower
| Shower size | Bench that usually fits best |
|---|---|
| 30" x 30" to 32" x 32" | A corner bench (16" to 17.5") or a compact 18" bench |
| 36" x 36" | A 21" bench, or a corner bench if the shower is busy |
| 36" x 42" to 36" x 48" | A 21" or 24" bench |
| 48" x 48" and larger walk-ins | A 24" or 30" bench |
| Tub-shower combos | Measure the flat tub floor; a bench outside the tub often works better as a seat for drying off |
Not sure whether a straight or corner bench suits your shower? See corner vs straight shower benches.
18" benches: for the smallest showers
An 18-inch bench is the most compact straight option. It works as a stool for washing your feet or shaving and leaves the most floor space free. If your shower is very small, also consider a corner bench, which tucks into unused space between two walls.
21" benches: the all-round favorite
Twenty-one inches is the size most people choose. It gives a comfortable seat for one adult in a standard 36-inch shower and still leaves plenty of room to stand. Our best-selling Hermod (21" W x 14" D x 18.125" H) has a gently curved seat and a lower storage shelf. For a weathered look, the Lavici and Elisa come in a rustic gray finish.
The 21" Lavici in rustic gray: a standard-shower size with a lower shelf.
24" benches: more seat, still compact
A 24-inch bench adds a few inches of seat, which makes it easier to sit and prop up a leg, or to set a towel down beside you. It is a good fit for 36" x 42" and larger showers. The Eske (24" W x 12.5" D x 18.125" H) has a wide flat top that also works as a spa side table, and the Luni offers the same size in rustic gray.
The 24" Eske: a wider flat seat for sitting, shaving or setting things down.
30" benches: for walk-in showers
Thirty inches is the size for larger walk-in showers, where there is room for a bench that feels like real spa seating. You can sit comfortably and still keep a basin, towel or bottles beside you. For a soft, weathered look, the Ricina (30" W x 12.5" D x 18" H) comes in a rustic gray finish. Prefer the warm natural teak color? Choose the Freya (30" W x 12.5" D x 18.125" H) or the Liv.
The 30" Freya in natural teak: room to sit and keep essentials within reach.
Not sure? Here's a quick way to decide
- Cut a piece of cardboard or tape a rectangle on the shower floor at the bench's size (for example 21" x 14").
- Stand in the shower and go through your normal routine. If you bump into it, go one size down or choose a corner bench.
- Remember the bench can be used outside the shower too: a 24" or 30" bench also works in the bathroom for drying off, or in an entryway.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most common shower bench size?
Around 21 inches wide. It fits a standard 36" x 36" shower and seats one adult comfortably while leaving room to stand.
Will a shower bench fit in a 32 x 32 shower?
Yes, but go compact: a corner bench or an 18" bench leaves you the most room to move. A 21" bench can work against the back wall if nothing else is in the way.
How tall should a shower bench be?
Most adults are comfortable with a seat between 17 and 19 inches high. Our Hermod, Eske and Freya have an 18.125" seat height. For more detail, see our guide to choosing a teak shower bench for seniors.
Do TeakCraft shower benches come assembled?
Yes. Our shower benches arrive fully assembled, with adjustable non-slip rubber feet for sloped shower floors.
Still unsure which size fits? Call us at +1 877-661-9293 with your shower measurements and we'll help you choose.
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Corner vs Straight Shower Bench: Which Is Right for Your Shower?