The 10 Best Shower Panels
This wiki has been updated 31 times since it was first published in February of 2017. If you're ready to upgrade your outdated bathroom to a luxurious, spa-like oasis, a shower panel offers both an attractive look and loads of functionality. Each tower on this list offers a variety of spray options, so you can be sure to get clean in style. Some even boast mood lighting, massage capabilities, and digital temperature displays, so bathing will never be boring again. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Blue Ocean SPV878392H
2. Valore Spa
3. Ello & Allo PS1880
Editor's Notes
December 03, 2020:
The ease of installation makes these shower panels an attractive option for those wishing to upgrade their shower system without having to undergo lengthy and costly plumbing work. The body jets, shower head, spray wand, and even the bathtub filler, all come pre-installed on a surface mounted panel and only require connection to the hot and cold water supplies.
In this update, we removed several older models due to availability issues and replaced others with their most up-to-date counterparts. We chose to replace the Vantory VSA101 with the Vantory VAA101, an equally high-quality option that has four massaging body jets built with independent controls for each one. It comes in a brushed nickel finish, and has a handy built-in glass shelf, for shampoo and other accessories. The Rozin R7072403 was also switched for a newer model, the Rozin Black, which still features built-in LED lights and a digital thermostat that, similar to the Ello & Allo PS1880, are both powered by a generator that converts energy from the water flow, meaning it doesn't require batteries or an electricity supply.
The DreamLine SHCM-25780 was removed from the list as it is no longer in production. In its place, we chose the Rovogo RVG18225, a contemporary option made from stainless steel and finished in black. It has a large, fully adjustable head and a good-sized hand-held sprayer, both of which provide good pressure and coverage. It should be noted, however, that this one does need batteries to power the digital display. Finally, we replaced the now obsolete Pulse Showerspas 030 Lahaina with the Pulse ShowerSpas Bali. Instead of the frosted glass finish, this one features an elegant bamboo and brushed stainless-steel panel with brushed nickel fixtures, making it equally as elegant. It also has a larger head that delivers a 2.5 gallon-per-minute flow rate, and a slimline hand wand with an extendable, stainless-steel hose.
June 08, 2019:
Shower panels come in a range of designs, from basic three-spray models to units with a range of patterns and massaging jets, so we wanted to make sure our selection represented that variety. If you want something very classy, then the elegant Blue Ocean SPV878392H is a smart choice. It is one of the few options that allows you to use all of the jets simultaneously, if your home water pressure supports that, of course. The Pulse Showerspas 030 Lahaina is a close second in the classy department, and it features a built-in shelf for soap and shampoo.
Many people want to add some modern features to their bathrooms these days, and the Ello & Allo PS1880, Ello & Allo PS12-S2, and Rozin R7072403 can help with that. All three of these models have integrated LEDs and digital temperature displays. Those who have small bathrooms, but still want a shower panel should check out the slim DreamLine SHCM-25780, which conveniently can be corner mounted if needed. If you thought your budget didn't allow for a shower panel, then guess again. The Valore Spa and Blue Ocean SP822322 are both affordable options.
Special Honors
Interval Concealed Thermostatic Shower Panel If you are looking for something sleek that blends in well with your shower, rather than looking like something installed afterwards, then you'll love this model. It has a two-piece design, with the overhead rain shower as a separate component and the panel itself being flush-mounted. Its square knobs are easy to grasp with wet hands, and the temperature measurements are etched into the metal. usa.hudsonreed.com
4. Pulse ShowerSpas Bali
5. AKDY AZ-9821
6. Ello & Allo PS12-S2
7. Rozin Black
8. Rovogo RVG18225
9. Blue Ocean SP822322
10. Vantory VAA101
What's The Point In Updating Your Shower?
It's no secret: showering is an activity most people engage in every single day of their lives.
It's no secret: showering is an activity most people engage in every single day of their lives. With that in mind, there are plenty of reasons to enhance your bathroom. Shower panels elevate the bathing experience to new heights, making the grooming process easier and a whole lot more pleasant. It's time to toss that rusty, bacteria-laden shower head for one of these impressive pieces that seamlessly combine technology and design. Many panels don't even require professional assistance in order to be successfully mounted — a detail do-it-yourself enthusiasts will likely appreciate.
One of the biggest advantages to installing a shower panel in your home is being able to achieve a more thorough cleaning. These products often sport multiple water outputs that facilitate quick and effortless washing. With one of these in your tub, you won't have to turn around and angle your body towards one single source of water. All you have to do is stand there and let the panel do the work.
You can also expect your showers to become shorter and more efficient — that is, if you're not looking to take advantage of the device's luxurious, spa-inspired features. You might actually catch yourself wanting to spend more time in the bathroom for once. With a shower panel, you'll always emerge from your bathing sessions looking and feeling like a million bucks.
It should also be noted that no matter the size or shape of your shower and tub, there's an option that will work for your home. You don't have to be a millionaire to be able to afford one, either, as there is an incredible number of shower panels on the market to choose from. You can count on finding dynamic models at a range of price points, so you're truly out of excuses for not upgrading that bathroom.
All The Bells And Whistles
Take a look at any shower panel and you'll understand that these things are built for performance. They have buttons, screens, attachments, and more, all crafted to aid you in your quest to get clean. But before you start shopping, it would be wise to determine the features that will suit your lifestyle best. Here, we'll outline some of the most common shower panel details.
You can adjust the temperature to your liking quickly and without having to brace yourself for any surprise bursts of water that's scalding hot or freezing cold.
The first and probably most significant aspect of the shower panel is how it delivers water. Do you prefer to be showered from overhead, or do you like to be sprayed from an angle perpendicular to your body? Beyond the direction of water flow, some models even allow you to control how the water is released. Go for the rainfall setting if you're partial to the feel of a traditional shower head's spray. You can also opt for the unbroken waterfall stream, a unique setting that creates the pleasing sensation of water being gently poured over you.
Handheld shower wands are another useful tool for washing up, and they come attached to a majority of the panels available today. Those who suffer from limited mobility will be grateful to have a handheld wand nearby, especially since most injuries in the home occur in the bathroom. Wands allow users to access the entire body easily, which diminishes the risk of strain. Shower panels are a great solution for elderly individuals who want to maintain their autonomy while staying safe.
Building on the theme of wellness, you might consider purchasing a product that comes with massaging jets. After all, there's nothing better at the end of the day than enjoying a relaxing massage. The comparatively forceful streams produced by jets work to stimulate the muscles, helping to soothe the aches and pains that often result from sitting in an office for eight hours every day.
If you hate fiddling with the hot and cold knobs in search of the ideal water temperature, you're in luck. Some panels come with display screens that show you exactly how warm the water is — no guesswork necessary. You can adjust the temperature to your liking quickly and without having to brace yourself for any surprise bursts of water that's scalding hot or freezing cold.
Every bathroom has a mirror, but why not keep one in your bathing area? Panels with built-in mirrors make shaving so much simpler. There's no need to hunch over the sink, making a mess with water, shaving cream, and supplies, when you can get the job done twice as fast in the shower.
Style Is Everything
Whether you're into rustic decor or tend more towards the modern, you're bound to be concerned about how the look of a panel will fit into your interior design scheme. But you needn't fret, as shower panels come in an array of shapes, sizes, materials, and finishes.
Plastic is a tough material that resists water damage and requires minimal maintenance, which makes it a selection that's practical and economical.
If you happen to occupy a home that's minimalist in appearance, then a stainless steel shower panel could be just the right choice for you. Stainless steel is a particularly smart material to pick because, in addition to looking sleek, it can stand up to plenty of use without scratching or tarnishing. Tempered glass is another material that complements contemporary decor nicely. This safe variety of glass is specially designed so that it won't shatter under pressure, affording you peace of mind.
Those on the hunt for a budget-friendly buy should look into models constructed from plastic. Plastic is a tough material that resists water damage and requires minimal maintenance, which makes it a selection that's practical and economical. And investing in a plastic panel doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style.
A shower panel can even eliminate the need to turn on your bathroom light. It may sound somewhat excessive, but you'll notice that quite a few panels have LED lights built right in. Some even boast fun color settings that allow you to change the lighting according to your mood. It may not be a necessary detail, but it sure is cool.
Starting his career in the building industry, Chris built and managed a plumbing and heating company in northern England. After 13 years, seeking a more fulfilling lifestyle, he moved to southeast Asia, eventually settling in Vietnam, where he teaches writing and comprehension at a number of international universities. Drawing on his previous experience, and his passion for kitesurfing and windsurfing, Chris is knowledgeable in all things water related both recreationally and within the construction industry.