The Complete Shower Buying Guide

Choosing the right shower can truly transform your bathroom. It’s not just a functional piece – it’s your daily reset button. Whether you’re doing a full renovation or simply upgrading, this guide will help you decide which shower is best for your space and lifestyle.

At Modern Living Direct, we offer a range of new shower options tailored for modern homes, luxury finishes and practical use. Let’s dive in.

Why Choosing the Right Shower Matters

A good shower sets the tone for your day. It also adds value to your home. Investing in quality isn’t just about looks. It’s about convenience, water efficiency and longevity.

Ask yourself:

• Do you prefer a strong power blast or a gentle rainfall?
• Do you need it to fit into a compact space?
• Will several people be using it daily?

These answers will help guide your decision.

Types of Showers: What Are Your Options?

Understanding the types of showers available is the first step. Each has its benefits depending on your plumbing system and preferences.

1. Mixer Showers

These connect to both hot and cold water supplies. They offer quick temperature adjustments. 

Best for: Homes with a strong water pressure system.

2. Electric Showers

Electric showers heat water on demand. They’re ideal for energy-saving and can run independently from your boiler.

Best for: Houses with lower hot water availability.

3. Power Showers

These use a built-in pump to boost water flow. They’re ideal if your water pressure is low.

Best for: Low-pressure, gravity-fed systems.

4. Thermostatic Showers

These maintain a steady temperature – even when someone flushes the loo.

Best For: family homes and safety-conscious buyers. 

What Is the Best Shower for Your Home?

The answer depends on your water system, stylistic preferences and practical needs. 

Here’s a quick breakdown to help answer your question: What is the best shower for my home?

Best Showers for Your Space and Aesthetic

Whether you’re upgrading a small ensuite or revamping your main bathroom, style and size matter.

Compact Bathrooms

• Choose a space-saving electric shower
• Go for clean lines and a minimalist unit
• Glass screens and light tiles enhance the space

Luxury Bathrooms

• Opt for a thermostatic mixer
• Consider rainfall heads for that spa-like finish
• Wall-mounted controls keep the space polished and uncluttered 

Walk-In Showers

• Ideal for wet rooms or modern layouts
• Frameless glass looks effortlessly elegant
• Pair with a new shower tray for easy drainage
• Need to replace an existing tray? Read our complete guide to replacing your shower tray.

Which Shower Is Best for Water Efficiency?

Being green doesn’t mean compromising comfort.

Look for eco-friendly models that reduce flow rate without losing pressure. Many of the best showers available now come with built-in water-saving tech.

Top tips for water-conscious shoppers:

• Choose showers with aerated heads
• Consider time-limited digital settings
• Install a flow restrictor
• Use cold-start technology where available. Here’s an article on cold-start technology.

Installation: DIY or Professional?

Fitting a shower isn’t always a simple swap.

While some electric units are DIY-friendly, others require plumbing or electrical work. In most cases, especially with power showers, we recommend a professional install.

It ensures:

• Safe connections
• Full water pressure
• Complies with UK building regulations

Also consider:

• Whether wall tiles need drilling
• How easy it is to access the pipework
• If a pump needs wiring into the mains

A qualified installer will make sure your new shower system is safe, neat and fully functional. They’ll also test water pressure and ensure warranty conditions are met.

Ask our team if you need help finding a trusted fitter.

Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Showers

Once installed, keep your new shower sparkling and efficient with these tips:

• Clean the head weekly with vinegar or limescale spray
• Wipe controls and screens to prevent grime
• Check filters (especially in power showers) every few months
• Keep ventilation strong to avoid mould

If your area has hard water, consider a water softener. It helps prevent limescale build-up and extends the life of your shower.

It’s also worth descaling the showerhead monthly if you notice a drop in water pressure.

Choosing the Right Accessories for Your Shower Type

The perfect shower setup goes beyond the main unit. Pairing it with the right accessories ensures stylistic alignment, safety and longevity.

Here’s how to match your accessories with the types of showers mentioned earlier:

• Mixer Showers
  • Thermostatic valve: Essential for temperature control
  • Rainfall showerhead: Adds luxury to your daily routine
  • Wall-mounted raiser rail: Great for shared family use
• Electric Showers
  • Reinforced hose: Handles pressure and heat efficiently
  • Simple fixed head: Keeps installation fast and budget-friendly
  • Slimline riser kit: Ideal for compact or en-suit rooms
• Power Showers
  • Wide spray head: Provides the most boosted pressure
  • Heavy-duty hose: Designed to cope with higher water flow
  • Waterproof wall brackets: Sturdy support is key here
• Thermostatic Showers
  • Temperature-locking valve: Protects children and elderly users
  • Adjustable rail kits: Great for multi-height households
  • Anti-limescale fittings: Low maintenance, long life

What Is the Best Shower for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to what is the best shower. It completely depends on your water system, taste, budget and space.

In summary:

• Consider your water pressure
• Think about who will be using said shower
• Look for energy-saving features
• Choose a design that is in keeping with your space
• Don’t forget to factor in installation requirements

Still struggling to find the perfect shower for your space? Get in touch with our team – at Modern Living, we’re here to help you every step of the way.