How to choose a shower cabin: selection rules and rating of the best models

shower panel

This is the "heart" of the whole installation. It contains a mixer, a watering can and a control panel. It is made of metal, plastic or glass. Metal is the strongest, glass is beautiful, and plastic is cheap.

Let's talk more about what management options are.

• Mechanical - traditional levers and rotary switches.
• Electronic - the system is configured using buttons.
• Touch - switching modes, adjusting the pressure and temperature are carried out with a light touch on the highly sensitive panel.

Some copies are in addition equipped with a remote control that allows you to set up work from a distance.

Leading shower enclosure manufacturers

1. River. A domestic manufacturer that has been pleasing customers with high-quality sanitary ware for more than 13 years. The prices for its booth models are low, since most of the factories are located in China.
2. Atlantis. Chinese company that produces excellent plumbing. Each product of this brand has a quality certificate.
3. Triton. Another domestic company that produces shower cabins of various shapes and sizes. The prices for the products of this company are small.
4. Iddis. A domestic company that has been producing high-tech equipment for more than 16 years. The company's products are far from budget, but very high quality.
5. SSWW. A Bavarian brand that has been producing premium sanitary ware for over 30 years.
6. Frank. A German brand, but, unlike SSWW, the Frank company produces goods at a more affordable price.
7. Parly. This brand produces budget showers. The most expensive models are half the price of European models and at the same time have the most modern technology.
8. Niagara. A Korean brand under which shower cabins of the middle price category are produced that meet all European standards.
9. arcus. This is our brand that manufactures shower enclosures from innovative materials. This company does not have prohibitively expensive models.
10. Grossman. A German company that manufactures budget category plumbing. Its bathtubs and showers stand out for their stylish design.
11. Erlit. The assortment of this Chinese company mainly includes shower cabins combined with a bathtub. Almost every model is decorated with bright illumination.
12. Avanta. This company was founded over 40 years ago.Now Avanta brand products are popular in many countries, including Russia.
13. Weltwasser. Shower cabins of this German company are valued for their functionality, reliability and beautiful design.
14. Timo. Finnish brand of sanitary ware, whose factories are located in many countries. The company produces models of shower cabins for all budget categories.
15. Bandhours. This Russian company produces high quality plumbing at an affordable price.

What kind of cabin is better

By and large, there are two options for showers - open and hydroboxes. The first ones are distinguished by the absence of an upper plane, simple design and have a relatively low price. Needed mainly in order to save space in the bathroom and money. Although among them there are “fancy” specimens with a bathtub as a tray and hydromassage.

Closed shower cabins are much more functional and varied in design. This design provides great opportunities for the imagination of the engineers of the manufacturer. Here you can find full-fledged baths and models with a small artificial marble tray, vertical and horizontal hydromassages, a Turkish bath, various lighting options, a built-in radio, and so on. Naturally, you will have to pay for all this. There is a large variation in the size of the shower cabin: there are quite miniature ones (the minimum size is 80 * 80 cm), and there are models that are much larger than the dimensions of a conventional bath, and therefore not always suitable even for combined bathrooms in typical houses. When buying, this should be taken into account in the first place. As well as the shape of the cabins, which may be as follows:

• rectangular;
• semicircular;
• square;
• five-sided;
• hexagonal;
• asymmetric (most often a rectangle with one rounded corner).

Having bought a cabin of the correct form, you can save a lot of space, especially if the bathroom has ledges or redevelopment has been carried out and decorative elements have been installed.

The material from which the pallet is made is also of great importance. The cheapest and simplest is acrylic, it is most often used in inexpensive domestic and Chinese models. It is he, as follows from the reviews, that most often “swells up”, turns yellow, squeezes through and cracks. But it also heats up faster than other materials, and is the most diverse in shape.

Steel and cast iron pallets are infrequently used in modern cabins, they are durable, but noisy and can rust.

Trays made of artificial marble are aesthetic and reliable, but it is impossible to give them the shape of a bathtub. Faience is beautiful, but fragile.

A new material is gaining popularity - quaryl (a mixture of quartz sand and acrylic), it is more reliable than acrylic, it has a wide range of colors.

How to choose a shower cabin for a bathroom based on its dimensions, the shape of the tray and the material of manufacture

Depending on the type of construction and the specific model, shower cabins can have a variety of dimensions - sizes. When choosing the optimal shower model for yourself, in addition to its functionality, it is imperative to take into account the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe bathroom and some features of the location of communications in the bathroom.

If we consider models with a classic square pallet, then the statistics are as follows:

• Open and closed models are most often made with dimensions of 80x80 cm, 90x90 cm, 100x100 cm.
• Combined models - shower boxes, with the correct rectangular geometry of the tray-bath, most often have dimensions of 80 × 120 cm, 90 × 120 cm, 90 × 160 cm, 125 × 125 cm and 150 × 150 cm.

The most common forms of wall pallets:

Rectangular

Square

Round

half circle

Common forms of corner pallets:

Square

Rectangular

Quadrant

Quarter of an ellipse

The above dimensions refer to models of sanitary ware with pallets with the correct geometry. If the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe bathroom is small, then you can get out of the situation by buying a shower cabin with an irregular pallet geometry - in the form of a semicircle, or even an angular model in which the pallet has the shape of one quarter of a circle.

As for the depth of the pallet, depending on the model, the walls of the pallet can be either flush with the floor level or rising to a height of up to 40 cm. When choosing a pallet by depth, it is necessary to take into account the location of the sewer pipe. If you need to buy plumbing with a low pallet, then sometimes it is possible to solve the problem with connecting the sewer by making a low pedestal for installing the pallet, or by completely raising the level of the floor in the bathroom.

Another way is to connect a sololift, a compact pump designed to pump out dirty water. In turn, pallets with a depth of 30-40 cm do not have such difficulties during installation, however, when visiting a shower cabin with high sides, you will constantly have to overcome these very sides. The solution to this problem can be the manufacture of one or two steps at the base of the high side.

What material is better to choose a shower tray

According to the material of manufacture, pallets are:

• cast iron;
• steel;
• Acrylic;
• faience;
• From artificial marble;
• From natural stone.

Cast iron pallets are highly durable and long lasting. Even after 10 years, the enamel from the cast-iron base practically does not wear out. Of the shortcomings, it should be noted that they are unnecessarily heavy.

Steel pallets are much lighter in weight than cast iron pallets, with due high strength. However, a steel pallet is not able to retain heat for a long time and cools quickly. Another disadvantage is the strong roar that the falling water creates.

Acrylic pallets are considered the most popular, as they have the lowest price and the widest variety of shapes and sizes. Pure acrylic shower trays are rare, with two-composite shower trays predominating. The exception is quaryl pallets. they heat up quickly

Pallets made of sanitary faience are distinguished by their massiveness, overall structural stability and long service life. The disadvantage of earthenware pallets is their fragility, that is, they must be used carefully.

Pallets made of artificial marble or natural stone - quickly warm up and keep the temperature for a long time, have high strength, can be easily repaired by grinding and do not lose their appearance over time. The disadvantage of cast marble or natural stone pallets is their high cost.

Product description

For a long time, the bathroom has become not just a place where you can wash yourself, but also get relaxation after labor worries and an active lifestyle. People strive for comfort, but not everyone can afford to install a huge bathroom or hydrobox.Most modern apartments allow you to stay only on a small shower column, but sometimes this becomes a great alternative.

The basic product package is as follows:

• hose;
• barbell;
• watering can.

Additional accessories may also be included in the kit, such as a thermostat, an overhead shower, a faucet, hooks for towels and clothes, shelves, and a soap dish. How to choose the optimal model? First, you should decide on the following criteria:

• type of fastener (to the wall or to the floor);
• rod length;
• corner or classic design.

Production material

This indicator is important for product durability and cost. In most cases, the following materials are used:

What are

To get a general idea about the types of shower racks, we suggest paying attention to the comparison table:

Design

The shower box consists of a pallet, internal walls, a shower enclosure with doors and shower fittings. The pallet can be of different heights - it can be completely flat or with fairly high sides. Manufacturers offer models of shower boxes with especially deep trays that can be used as a small corner bath. Usually the pallets of the boxes are made of acrylic.

The inner walls of the cabin and the roof are made of durable sanitary plastic. Sometimes panels made of glass, wood, aluminum, mirror cloth are used as decorative inserts. Ergonomic seating, shelves for bath accessories, mirrors - all this, as a rule, is also provided in modern shower boxes.

Tempered glass is used as a material for fences and doors. As in conventional shower enclosures, doors in shower boxes can be hinged or sliding.

Hydromassage: is it necessary or not?

This is one of the key questions when choosing a shower cabin.A model without this function is much cheaper and has much less maintenance, but it also looks much poorer.

Hydromassage itself is a useful thing: it has a relaxing effect on the body, helps to get rid of stress and fatigue, improves blood circulation, dilates blood vessels and lowers blood pressure. Alas, such an action is not characteristic of every shower cabin. If vertical hydromassage in almost all models is more or less decent (at least in terms of pressure, since a lot depends on the quality and type of nozzles, and they are much more advanced in expensive models), then everything is more difficult with horizontal. Premium cabins often have separate "souls" for the lower back, neck, chest and legs. But the power of the flow often does not perform the function of a massage, just watering the body.

When choosing a hydrobox model with hydromassage, you should read the reviews for this particular function in advance, and only after that make a decision. Overpaying the extra $500-800, and then using the hydromassage once a year is a dubious pleasure.

How to choose?

When choosing a shower stall, you need to consider not only the size, but also the shape, since these two parameters affect the installation location and the connection method.

• Corner symmetrical - a small booth, an excellent option for small spaces. Regardless of the side installed in the corner, the facial honor is semicircular or in the form of a polygon.
• Corner asymmetric - a booth with sides of different lengths, the front part is semicircular or polygonal. According to the installation method, they are divided into left-handed and right-handed.
• Rectangular - equipped with a deep tray that can act as a bath, installed along the wall or in the corner.
• Square - usually has a low pallet, just like a rectangular one, it can be installed both in a corner and along a wall.
• Non-standard - usually made to order and have an unusual shape for booths.

The pallet must be selected taking into account the size of the bathroom, the condition of the pipes in the house. There are three types of pallets:

• low - height up to 10 cm;
• medium - up to 18 cm;
• deep - from 25 to 35 cm, in some cases the depth can be increased.

The best combination showers

Combined hydroboxes embody the maximum wishes of customers, combining the function of a shower cabin and a bathtub. They can be equipped with all sorts of additional options, be open or closed. As a rule, such plumbing is overall and therefore is installed only in fairly spacious bathrooms.

Eago DA335F12 - ultra-modern hydrobox

5.0

★★★★★
editorial score

90%
buyers recommend this product

The shower cabin is designed for corner installation and is equipped with a 158x158 cm bathtub instead of a tray. Also, the model has the option of chromotherapy with light rays.

Cabin walls are made of tempered glass. It has a modern, stylish design, equipped with LED lighting. There are conditions for taking a shower while sitting. The kit includes the entire shower set, as well as shelves and a built-in radio.

Advantages:

• 26 hydromassage jets;
• Chromotherapy;
• Turkish sauna;
• Tropical shower;
• Lighting and illumination, plus built-in radio receiver;
• Stylish design and durable walls.

Flaws:

High price.

The DA335F12 Hydrobox from Eago is a 3-in-1 device: a shower cabin, a corner bath and a Turkish bath for 1-2 people. It will please its owners with stylish design and functionality.

Appollo A-0830 - large and multifunctional shower cabin

4.8

★★★★★
editorial score

88%
buyers recommend this product

Hydrobox allows you to comfortably take a bath or shower, as it has a large size and many additional options. The box is 175 m long and 94 cm wide. It is equipped with 8 jets in the cabin and 3 in the bathroom, which allows you to massage your back, lower back and legs separately.

The walls of the hydro box are made of acrylic, which facilitates the construction and somewhat reduces its cost, in comparison with models made of tempered glass. The package includes a Turkish bath system. The hydrobox is also equipped with a built-in radio, telephone and backlight. There is a rain shower and ozonation.

Advantages:

• Comfortable large bathtub;
• Functional hydromassage;
• Ozonation;
• Turkish sauna;
• radio and telephone;
• Lighting and additional lighting.

Flaws:

No aroma and chromotherapy.

Shower cabin A-0830 from Appollo is comfortable and multifunctional. It is suitable for medium to large bathrooms.

Am.Pm "Sense" W75B-170S085WTA ​​- rectangular combined hydro box

4.6

★★★★★
editorial score

86%
buyers recommend this product

This cab has a discreet design, with clear acrylic fronts, a 225L white bathtub and a matching white rear panel. Hydrobox has a built-in hydromassage system, carried out by means of 6 jets.

The cabin has the option of a Turkish bath and a rain shower. There is a built-in radio, lighting and ventilation system.Due to its rectangular shape, the hydrobox allows front-wall installation.

Advantages:

• Discreet design;
• Hydromassage;
• Turkish sauna;
• Tropical shower;
• Spacious bath;
• Electronic control.

Flaws:

• No chromotherapy;
• Lack of a mirror.

Am.Pm's Sense shower enclosure is suitable for any bathroom style.

Timo T-7725 - compact hydro box

4.5

★★★★★
editorial score

84%
buyers recommend this product

See review

The dimensions of the hydrobox 120x120 cm allow it to be installed even in small spaces. It has the shape of a quarter circle, so it is optimal for corner mounting. The shower cabin is equipped with a hydromassage and there is the possibility of additional equipment with airmassage, Turkish bath and chromotherapy systems.

The walls and bathtub are made of acrylic. They are easy to care for and can be cleaned with common detergents. The hydrobox has a seating area. Includes soap dispenser, mirror, shelf and built-in radio. Together with the electronic control system, all this makes the shower cabin practical and easy to use.

Advantages:

• Hydromassage;
• Possibility of completion;
• Electronic control;
• Rich equipment;
• Seat.

Flaws:

• There are no hydromassage jets in the bathroom itself;
• Small capacity.

The T-7725 shower enclosure from Timo is the ideal solution for those who cannot choose between a bathtub and a shower enclosure, while still having a small bathroom.

Product comparison: choose which model to choose and buy

Product Name
average price	45100 rub.	40700 rub.	51600 rub.	48700 rub.	43800 rub.	64600 rub.	99700 rub.	47200 rub.	61700 rub.	113900 rub.
Rating
Type of	combination cabin	combination cabin	combination cabin	combination cabin	combination cabin	combination cabin	combination cabin	combination cabin	combination cabin	combination cabin
fencing	full-walled	full-walled	full-walled	full-walled	full-walled	full-walled	full-walled	full-walled	full-walled	full-walled
The form	rectangular	rectangular	rectangular	rectangular	rectangular	rectangular	rectangular	rectangular	rectangular	quadrant
Pallet included	there is	there is	there is	there is	there is	there is	there is	there is	there is	there is
pallet material	ABS plastic	acrylic	acrylic	acrylic	acrylic	acrylic		ABS plastic	acrylic	acrylic
Pallet height	50 cm	50 cm	50 cm	50 cm	50 cm	52 cm	60 cm	50 cm	52 cm	55 cm
Front wall material	glass		glass	glass		glass	glass	glass	glass	glass
Front wall thickness	4 mm		4 mm	4 mm			6 mm	4 mm		5 mm
Front wall options	opaque, translucent	opaque	opaque, translucent	opaque, translucent	opaque	opaque	transparent	opaque, translucent	opaque	translucent
Door construction	sliding	sliding	sliding	sliding	sliding	sliding	sliding	sliding	sliding	sliding
Number of door leaves	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	2
overheat protection	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	No
Control Panel	electronic		electronic	electronic		electronic	electronic	electronic	electronic	sensory
Display	there is	No	there is	there is	No		there is	there is		there is
Remote control	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	No
Voice control	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	No
Anti-slip bottom	there is		there is	there is				there is
Equipment	mirror, shelves, adjustable legs, shower head	shelves, shower head	headrest, mirror, shelves, adjustable legs, shower head	headrest, mirror, shelves, adjustable legs, shower head	shelves, shower head	mirror, shelves, shower head	shelves, shower head	mirror, shelves, adjustable legs, shower head	mirror, shelves, shower head	headrest, shampoo dispenser, shelves, shower head
Mixer	classical	classical	classical	classical	classical	classical	classical	classical	classical	classical
Underwater illumination	No		No	No				No
Dimensions (LxHxW)	70x217x150 cm	80x218x150 cm	80x217x170 cm	80x217x150 cm	80x218x170 cm	80x215x168 cm	82x220x148 cm	70x217x170 cm	80x215x148 cm	150x220x150 cm
Massage	vertical hydromassage, back hydromassage		vertical hydromassage, foot hydromassage, back hydromassage	vertical hydromassage, foot hydromassage, back hydromassage		vertical hydromassage, back hydromassage	vertical hydromassage, back hydromassage	vertical hydromassage, back hydromassage	vertical hydromassage, back hydromassage	vertical hydromassage, foot hydromassage, back hydromassage
Number of nozzles for vertical massage	3		3	3		6	8	3	6	6
Additional functions	rain shower, ventilation	rain shower	rain shower, ventilation	rain shower, ventilation	rain shower	rain shower, ventilation	rain shower, contrast shower, ozonation, ventilation	rain shower, ventilation	rain shower, ventilation	rain shower, ventilation
Multimedia and communication	radio, telephone (speakerphone)		radio, telephone (speakerphone)	radio, telephone (speakerphone)		radio	radio	radio, telephone (speakerphone)	radio	radio
seat	there is	there is	there is	there is	there is		there is	there is		there is
Lighting	overhead lighting, decorative lighting		overhead lighting, control panel lighting, decorative lighting	overhead lighting, control panel lighting, decorative lighting		top illumination	top illumination	overhead lighting, decorative lighting	top illumination	overhead lighting, decorative lighting
Additional Information							Bluetooth

How does a shower cabin work, the principles of its functioning

Before choosing a shower cabin for your home, you will need to study the principles of its operation, so that if something happens, you can know exactly where it needs to be fixed. In addition, the shower cabin is a rather complex mechanism, therefore, in order to use it, it is necessary to find out in advance its main functionality.

In fact, any shower cabin designed for the bathroom is designed in such a way that you can take water procedures in it in a standing or sitting position. The designs of such devices are very different, so for you, first of all, there is a choice of the design of the shower stall. Such devices are divided into separate types, which differ not only in functionality, but also in a variety of amenities, as well as installation features. Therefore, many users are worried about how to choose a shower enclosure in a small bathroom, because for most buyers, bathrooms do not take up very much space.

For such buyers, it is especially important to understand what shower stalls are. They, in turn, are divided into the following types:

Closed showers. These are booths that are hermetically sealed so that water does not spill onto the floor and flood your walls, since water in such devices splashes in different directions. In addition, these shower stalls can be of various shapes, so you can install them in the places where it is convenient for you. Often, such booths consist of a pallet, a frame, a special door, several panels and a rather rich functionality. Such boxes are great for those who would not like to take up a lot of space in the bathroom with just a shower, but at the same time are ready to pay for a device in which you can not only take a shower, but also give yourself a massage or aromatherapy.
Open showers. They have only side and front doors, as well as a shower head and a special faucet.The water flow is directed towards two walls that have insulated gaskets to keep water from seeping in and dripping onto your floor.
Combined showers. Such showers have universal properties and functionality that combines the features of open and closed showers.

However, in the combined cabins there are some improvements that have a waterproof floor, as well as a rather beautiful ladder, with which you can carefully and safely climb inside the cabin.