Chinese shower cabins: is it worth buying?

Beautiful examples

One of the easiest and most popular ways to place a shower enclosure is to install it in the corner of the bathroom. In this case, a partition is mounted between 2 walls and a door is installed. Such a cabin fits perfectly into the interior, and if you use transparent structures, it becomes almost invisible. The illusion of a spacious room is created, even if we are talking about a bathroom in Khrushchev.

Similarly, if the dimensions of the room allow, you can organize rectangular cabins, the back panel of which replaces the wall of the room. The use of transparent tempered glass will also help to achieve the effect of "dissolving" the structure.

In elongated rooms, a rectangular or elliptical structure can be mounted along a narrow wall.

When organizing a cabin in a small space, preference should be given to structures that are translucent or have light pastel shades. The depth of the pallet is medium, since too high can look cumbersome.

If the bathroom is made in a certain style, then the cabin accessories should match it as much as possible. So, in classic interiors and when using the shabby chic style, it is logical to opt for antique fittings.

In the interiors in the spirit of baroque, rococo, neoclassicism, gilded trim elements organically look.

It is important that the finish of the shower cabin is in harmony with the design of the walls and floor. The classic solution is a combination of light lower walls and even lighter central elements with a darker floor.

To support the shade of the flooring allow the curb on the surface of the walls and accessories.

Reflective surfaces - mirrors, shiny tiles, chrome plumbing - will help to visually expand the space. You can add depth to the bathroom and bring a touch of elegance, mystery, using shades of blue, aquamarine

You can divert attention from the modest dimensions of the room with the help of floor tiles. Choose "honeycombs", tiles with geometric patterns

How to assemble and install a shower do-it-yourself cabinsee the next video.

Device

By design, Chinese shower cabins are monolithic. In this case, assembly is not needed. The second option is prefabricated products.

Such models include elements:

• pallet;
• sashes;
• means of water supply;
• roof.

The basis of any design is a pallet. Its size determines the dimensions of the entire structure, since elements of the product rarely go beyond its limits.

The size of the pallet can start from 80 cm, and it increases in increments of 5 cm.

The assembly instructions for the product largely depend on the material:

• ceramics;
• acrylic;
• cast iron;
• metal.

Glass, wood, granite and even marble are also found. Most models have legs for height adjustment.

If the device is to be attached to walls, check them thoroughly before choosing. Otherwise, there will be no fit, which means that installation will be difficult.

Installation of the pallet, as a rule, does not require the use of cladding. However, this is determined by the owner. In addition, you can “drown” the structure into the floor to form a single level. Of course, in our conditions, especially apartment conditions, it is not easy to realize such a task. Sometimes you have to raise the level to ensure a good drain.

At the same time, the installation of Chinese shower cabins must be carried out according to the instructions, which will avoid accidental errors. The overall result, as well as the next repair, largely depends on the quality of the installation of the pallet.

Which is better: a shower with a roof or without, but with a rain shower?

If the priority is a closed shower box, then it already has a roof and walls. The interior space is closed on all sides.

It is possible to carry out such water procedures that were previously available only to clients of expensive salons. This device can perform a number of functions:

• Suitable for aromatherapy.
• Equipped with a ventilation system.
• In hydroboxes there are lanterns of lateral and top lighting.
• There will be no mold and dampness in the room.

Open cabins do not have a roof. Therefore, it will not be possible to use a Turkish shower, hydromassage or a mini-steam room. But such a cabin is cheaper and easy to install. It can be installed directly on the bathroom floor.On sale you can find showers without a roof of various shapes: round, angular and rectangular.

Pros and cons of a device without a top

If you choose a budget shower cabin that will be mounted on the bathroom floor, an open type of device is the best solution.

The advantages of these products:

• Inexpensive.
• They have a simple package. Their installation requires less effort, time and special knowledge.
• Low. They can be placed in rooms of any height.
• Quality. For example, the semi-circular OBI Jakarta cabin without a roof is characterized by increased strength due to the metal frame elements. Made from abrasion and corrosion resistant materials. The surface is easy to clean.
• Illumination inside the cab. Thanks to this, the process of taking a shower becomes comfortable.

Photo 1. An example of an installed shower cabin without a top in the interior of a real bathroom.

Minuses:

• Impossibility of use in bathrooms with insufficient waterproofing. Steam escaping from the top of the appliance settles on the walls, furniture and ceiling. If the finishing materials are not resistant to moisture, the appearance of the room will be lost, mold and insects will appear.
• Open models have a limited set of functions. You will not be able to use a steam bath or sauna, as well as equip a cascade or rain shower.

The best open-type shower cabins in terms of price-quality ratio

Shower cabins of open type are used in various spheres of human activity. They are perfect for installation in low rooms, in cramped bathrooms, in cottages, attics, etc.

Polar 601

Rating: 4.9

In many respects, the Polar 601 shower cabin deserves the first place in the ranking. First of all, consumers are attracted by affordable price and stylish design. Wood effect inserts in combination with the same color of the pallet captivate the eye. The translucent front walls further add to the aesthetics. To save space in a cramped bathroom, a quarter-circle tray allows you to save space. The design is based on a durable metal frame, which is reliably protected by a special coating against corrosion.

The hydromassage shower cabin will suit lovers of simplicity and functionality. The model has such modern options as vertical hydromassage, tropical shower, back hydromassage. The set includes a classic faucet and a shower head.

• affordable price;

• a large number of useful functions;

• elegant design.

not expressed.

Aquanet Penta

Rating: 4.8

The Aquanet Penta shower cabin is not inferior to the leader in appearance. It is made in light and sparkling colors, which allows it to fit into any bathroom interior. The model is made in a pentagonal shape, patterned glass is used to make the walls. To create a profile, the manufacturer used aluminum coated with matte chrome. The pallet is made of cast marble. This material has not only an attractive appearance, but also a warm surface.

A distinctive feature of the model, experts call excellent sound insulation. Taking water procedures, extraneous sounds will not distract the user. The complete set of the shower cabin is quite modest, the set includes only a classic faucet.

• quality assembly;

• reliable design;

• cast pallet.

• high price;

• minimal feature set.

Band Hours Eureka

Rating: 4.7

The right to be among the leaders of our rating, the Band Hours Eureka shower enclosure has earned its elegance and practicality. Experts consider the combination of affordable price and cabin quality to be successful. The model has an acrylic pallet that can withstand high loads (up to 500 kg). The manufacturer used safety tempered glass with tinting. To increase the service life and easy opening of the doors, double chrome-plated rollers with bearings are used.

The shower cabin has the shape of a quarter of a circle, which allows you to economically use the space of a cramped room. The set is quite modest, in the set there are only shelves.

• elegant design;

• optimal combination of price and quality;

• secure door opening system.

• modest equipment;

• lack of modern features.

Luxus L012

Rating: 4.7

Practically in no way inferior to the leaders of the rating shower cabin Luxus L012. It is praised by users for its accessibility and practicality. But she did not make it into the top three for several reasons. The package does not include a faucet and shelves, and there is no such interesting option as a rain shower. In terms of safety, thanks to the Antislip ribbed acrylic shower tray, you can shower without fear of slipping.

It should be noted a number of advantages of the cabin. This is a high tray, 5 mm tempered glass, galvanized metal frame under the tray, double metal rollers at the top and bottom, white magnetic seals. Compact dimensions of 90x90 cm allow you to install a shower cabin in the cramped bathroom.

• reliable design;

• quality manufacturing;

• compactness;

• deep tray.

modest set.

Timo TL-9001

Rating: 4.6

When only one simple “rain” function is required from a shower cabin, then you should pay attention to the Timo TL-9001 model. It is made in the form of a quarter circle with walls 90x90 cm, which allows you to fit into the cramped room.

The design is simple and convenient, the basis is an aluminum frame. To protect against moisture, the metal is covered with a layer of chromium. A low (15 cm) acrylic pallet reinforced with a metal profile is used as a floor. Double-leaf doors are easily moved apart and moved thanks to the roller system with bearings.

Shower cabin Timo TL-9001 does not have such modern features as hydromassage or rain shower. There is no faucet, no shower head, no shelves. Therefore, it is difficult to claim the role of leaders with such parameters.

Finnish manufacturers

Finnish plumbing equipment has been included in the ranking of the best quality shower cabins due to the reliability of the products. The Finns make models of various classes and types, but they have one thing in common: the high quality of their products.

Top companies:

• Timo.
• IDO Showerama.
• Ideal standard.

These brands are worthy competition to German manufacturers.

The cost of Finnish shower boxes is loyal, especially since the models are very different. Finding an inexpensive and acceptable option is not difficult, since the most inexpensive shower stall costs about 13 thousand rubles. The service life of the products is long, the warranty is 5 years. There are also no complaints about the build quality of products, although sometimes some Finnish companies hide the true origin of the products offered to customers. But the rating of shower cabins includes only models that have been tested and recommended by consumers and have positive reviews.Unfortunately, Finnish products have a drawback - in the event of a breakdown, it is quite problematic to get the necessary parts.

Manufacturer Selection Tips

An equally important criterion for choosing a cabin is its manufacturer / importer. Information about the most popular and trusted companies operating in different price segments can be found in the following table.

Table. Choosing a shower cabin manufacturer

Category	Information
domestic producers	Among the Russian brands that have received the greatest trust from buyers, the following manufacturers can be noted: - Domani-Spa; – Eurolux; – Alavann; – Aqualife. The quality of modern locally produced plumbing products is practically not inferior to foreign counterparts, and the cost, at the same time, is much more pleasant.
Expensive foreign plumbing	In the highest price range, German manufacturers, for example, Westerhof, Sturm, and Edelform, etc., have proven themselves best. The cost of the products offered starts at an average of 70 thousand rubles, but the quality is at its best.
Middle segment	High quality, functional and more modest in terms of prices Compared to German products, Italian manufacturers (Axa, Primo, Valencia, etc.), Finnish companies (Timo, Novitek) and Czech manufacturers (Luxus, Riho) offer.
Budget segment	The most budgetary shower cabins are traditionally offered by Chinese manufacturers. There is only one recommendation here: do not buy a product branded by an absolutely unknown company - you risk getting an extremely poor quality design. Among the proven Chinese manufacturers, it is worth noting such companies as: HX, Avanta, Baraka, Eago, etc.Buying their products, you can save a lot of money and get at your disposal a shower cabin of quite acceptable quality.

The best shower cabins 120x120 with a high tray

If overall models with a low bottom are more popular with those who prefer bathing in an upright position, then the same options, but with a high side, will imitate water procedures in the bathroom. This degree of security is appropriate when there are small children in the family. The experts took into account the needs of customers and the main quality criteria, highlighting 3 boxes 120x120 with a high side as a priority.

Frank F658

The most important advantage of this box is its huge service life - more than 15 years, according to the manufacturer. In the creation of 100% only sanitary acrylic was used, which ensures the strength of the structure, which rests on an anodized metal profile. The addition is a molded comfortable seat. Sliding doors are equipped with impact-resistant tempered glass 6 mm thick. The height of the lower part is 50 cm, the bottom can withstand up to 250 kg. The main functions are an overhead, hand shower, hydromassage, a watering can with 3 operating modes. Of the additions, it is worth noting LED backlighting, an electric exhaust fan, a display for touch control, a radio, a mirror, a shelf.

Advantages

• High quality materials;
• Heavy-duty glass;
• Long service life;
• German production;
• Wide functionality;
• Ease of controls;
• Brass faucet with ceramic cartridge;
• Heavy duty pallet.

Flaws

Price.

The anodized metal, on which the entire structure actually rests, protects the box from corrosion, water scale and other problems during long-term use.

River Temza 120/120/55

This whirlpool box is as spacious, multifunctional as the previous model. It has everything for maximum pleasure from water procedures - a tropical overhead shower, a watering can, hydromassage, a comfortable seat and a competent arrangement of nozzles to massage your back with a stream of water. Pleased with touch control, the presence of ventilation, decorative lighting, radio, speaker phone and shelves. You can adjust the height of the legs, the kit comes with all the necessary accessories.

Advantages

• capacity;
• Affordable price;
• Good hydromassage for healing;
• Touch control;
• Ability to connect a telephone;
• Quality sliding doors.

Flaws

• Only one shelf;
• There is no mirror.

In general, the product enjoys a good reputation due to the presence of several functions, additional features along with an average price. After prolonged use, there is no water leakage, the faucet works properly.

Timo T-7725

This model is more of an independent bathroom than just a box. This is due to the large dimensions, capacity, high lift, wide functionality. And its main feature is the new option “Bath filler”. Of the technical characteristics, a reinforced bottom frame, double metal rollers on the doors, safety tempered glass 6 mm thick, anodized chrome-plated aluminum profile, reinforced acrylic walls are noted. Of the options, it is worth highlighting the overhead shower, hydromassage, Turkish bath (installed separately).Of the additions - radio, shelves, mirror, seat, ventilation, overhead lighting.

Advantages

• High quality, durable materials;
• Function "Bath filler";
• Possibility of installing a Turkish bath;
• moonlight;
• Touch control panel;
• 2 in 1 - shower and bath.

Flaws

• High price;
• There is no way to connect a phone.

An excellent choice for a large family due to the functionality and quality assembly. Boxing can become a full-fledged replacement for a shower, a bath. The high price is justified by the strength of the design, materials, long service life and warranty.

Functions

One of the most attractive features of many cabins is hydromassage, which can be performed in vertical, horizontal and zonal versions.

The degree of functionality of modern shower cabins is determined by the possibilities of various types of shower, bath and hydromassage procedures.

Among the shower functions, an ordinary shower stream poured from above, a shower resembling a hand watering can, tropical and contrast shower types predominate. The first three differ in the intensity of the water flow and have varying degrees of relaxing effect.

A contrast shower involves a programmed alternate supply of hot and cold water. It shakes and tones the body, puts it into working condition.

In the "Turkish bath" mode, with the help of a built-in steam generator, a 50-60 degree temperature inside the cabin and high humidity are created. This function can be supplemented by the effect of aromatherapy as a result of the passage of steam through a container filled with healing aromatic substances.

Functional comfort in the cab is provided by luminaires mounted in the cab ceiling.In addition to uniform and soft lighting, the electronics make it possible to color water jets in different colors.

An important functional element is the ventilation system. It evenly distributes steam inside the cabin and ensures effective ventilation.

Which shower is best?

The entire range of this sanitary equipment, including hydromassage and steam boxes, shower panels and systems, is classified into 2 types (closed and open), and consists of a tray, side walls, doors, shower heads, nozzles and a top cover. The best product can be determined by a simple visual inspection. Preferred Models:

• structures in which the doors and side walls are made of safety tempered glass (transparent or frosted);
• pallets made of acrylic, quartz, marble chips;
• with a large number of doors (2-6), which ensures the strength of the frame;
• multifunctional (tropical, cascade or Charcot shower, steam generator, water jet modification, ozonation, aromatherapy, hydro or traveling wave massage, Finnish sauna / Turkish bath function, backlight, built-in CD, DVD, radio).

Other than that, the best shower enclosures are those that are perfectly sized and spacious.

When choosing the best model, it is important to determine its purpose and the required functionality. You should not overpay for a lot of marketing "bells and whistles" that you will almost never use

Next, you should choose the height of the pallet, the shape and size of the cabin. To appreciate the convenience when taking water procedures, you must enter the cabin and raise your arms bent at the elbows, as when washing your hair.Suitable size - if the elbows do not touch anything.

And one more important point: it is not recommended to install it yourself. It is best to use the services of a service center or professionals.

The best shower cabins 90x90 with a low tray

Another popular category of similar products is modern showers. cabs with low pallet. They look much more elegant in comparison with those options that were made a few years ago. A low pallet, compact dimensions are preferred by unpretentious people who value simplicity and conciseness. After analyzing the determining selection criteria, the experts named the 3 best shower cabins with dimensions of 90x90, a low tray.

River Tana 90

The domestic leader in the manufacture of shower cabins presented the best model in this category - Tana 90, which distinguished itself with a tray only 15 cm high, a siphon included, a non-removable faucet, ventilation holes to prevent condensation. Additional implementations are 2 shelves, a metal overhead shower, a hand shower on a hose with 3 positions, a watering can with a flexible hose, a mirror. The design has a roof, hinged doors made of impact-resistant glass (6 mm thick).

Advantages

• Large height 217 cm;
• Silicone-free assembly;
• Shower cabin square open type;
• Safety tempered glass;
• Minimalist design.

Flaws

• A swing door requires more free space;
• Front windows are transparent.

Interesting in appearance, an unusual model due to its square shape, small dimensions and a pallet will become a decoration of the bathroom. A low-budget, convenient option, but it is not quite suitable for a shared bathroom.The fact is that the door, the glass will not cover the bathing person from prying eyes because of the transparency of the glass, which means that only he himself can be in the bathroom.

Atlantis with hydromassage

The symmetrical Atlantis M-90 hydromassage box 90×90 cm and 215 cm high is an excellent offer at a low price. The shape of the low pallet is a quarter of a circle, the full-wall construction is complemented by sliding doors. The walls are made of durable glass, the pallet is made of acrylic. The kit comes with a special watering can, built-in radio, shelf, lighting, and the main purpose is a tropical vertical shower, hydromassage.

Advantages

• Hydromassage option;
• Radio;
• Low price;
• Tempered tinted glass;
• Hood for quick drying;
• Backlight.

Flaws

• Smell of plastic;
• Fragility of components.

There are not so many reviews about this model, and those that are, emphasize the low price with good functionality and compact size of the box. Over time, it may be necessary to change the mixer, otherwise the product meets the needs of the buyer.

Grossman GR-121

Of the modern, high-quality models, a good compact version with a low pallet is the Grossman GR-121 from a well-known German brand. Its main difference lies in the non-standard design, square shape, hinged door. Inside there are 3 spacious shelves for cosmetics, a large mirror, anti-slip flooring. The frame is made of durable stainless steel, the door is mounted on steel hinges, glass is 5 mm thick. The kit comes with a drainage system, which includes a siphon, a drain corrugation. The overhead rain shower has lights installed in the roof. There is also a hand shower with a flexible hose, 2 hydromassage jets.

Advantages

• Durability;
• Stylish design;
• Additional features - radio, hood, lighting;
• Remote control on the remote control;
• Shelves, place under the seat;
• Wide functionality.

Flaws

• Price;
• Seat sold separately.

A great option for those who appreciate comfort, high quality. For maximum convenience, you can independently supplement the box with a towel rack, a seat. Unlike cheaper offers, this option is very stable, spacious.

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.

1. Mechanical - traditional levers and rotary switches.
2. Electronic - the system is configured using buttons.
3. 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.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a few more useful recommendations.

1. Do not try to find a multifunctional inexpensive device. Remember that the options in such instances break down very quickly, and it is often expensive or even impossible to replace them: you have to change the booth.
2. Before buying, make sure that spare parts are supplied for this model. It is better to play it safe, because the situations are different: the partition was broken, the base cracked, the rollers broke, etc.
3. Always buy reputable brand products from a reputable store. All documentation and warranty must be present.