Enjoy a Secluded Outdoor Shower with Simple Privacy Hacks
Taking an outdoor shower can be an incredibly freeing experience. The fresh air, sounds of nature, and warm sunlight create a rejuvenating escape from the confines of indoor bathing. However, outdoor showers also come with a need for privacy, especially in close neighborhoods. Exposing yourself while bathing in the open is an awkward predicament nobody wants. Thankfully, there are simple and stylish ways to create seclusion and soak up the outdoors without unwanted eyes spying.
We'll also cover removable and portable options for temporary coverage when needed. With a few simple hacks, you can relax completely carefree in a lush backyard oasis.
Materials for Outdoor Shower Privacy Screens
When considering materials for screening your outdoor shower, you'll want to balance aesthetics, durability, cost, and ease of installation. Here are some of the most popular options:
Wood
Wood is a classic choice for privacy fencing and screens. Options like cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated pine resist decay and can be stained or painted for decoration. Wood slat screens allow air circulation while blocking views. Just be sure to properly seal and maintain wood screens exposed to outdoor conditions.
Bamboo
For a natural look, bamboo makes an excellent privacy screen material. Bamboo grows quickly and sustainably without pesticides. It can be woven into latticework or cut into slats for fencing. Properly treated bamboo is resilient outdoors. Its neutral tones complement any landscape.
Living Plants
Plant hedges, vines, grasses and bushes to create natural coverage as they grow.this option blends into outdoor spaces seamlessly. Evergreen trees like arborvitae also maintain their screening ability year-round. Be sure to research growth rates and plant accordingly for faster coverage.
Plastic or Fabric
Lightweight screens made of plastic, vinyl or fabric serve as easy portable solutions. Hang them from poles or frames to create movable barriers. These materials resist weather and offer temporary versatility, though they lack the sophistication of permanent installations.
Metal
Wrought iron, steel, and aluminum can be formed into artful screens that enhance outdoor design. Metal offers security and durability for lasting performance. However, these permanent screens require more expertise to install properly.
Glass/Acrylic
For transparent screening that maintains openness, frosted or patterned glass blocks views while allowing light. Plastic acrylic sheets also diffuse visibility. Panels can attach to existing walls or frames. This slick modern option may have building code considerations.
DIY Wooden Privacy Screen
Installing a simple wooden slat screen is a weekend DIY project for basic carpentry skills. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Measure the area you want to cover and sketch a layout for the screen. Account for access openings.
- Choose suitable outdoor wood like cedar or redwood. Purchase 1x3 or 1x4 slat boards.
- Cut the boards to the desired length based on your measurements.
- Construct a rectangular frame from 2x4 lumber to fit the perimeter of the space.
- Attach the frame securely into the ground or surface using deck screws.
- Lay out the slat boards with even spacing and fasten them horizontally onto the frame.
- Seal and finish the wood screen with weatherproof outdoor stain.
This simple strategy forms an elegant wooden barrier for instant shower seclusion. Customize dimensions for perfect coverage and relaxation.
Hanging a Removable Fabric Screen
When privacy needs are only occasional, a removable fabric screen offers flexible temporary coverage. Here's how to install this handy hack:
- Measure the length needed and purchase an opaque, water-resistant shower curtain or similar fabric. Outdoor canvas works great.
- Hem the edges to prevent fraying. Metal grommets can be added for durability.
- Install hooks along the ceiling, eaves, poles or other supports spanning the top of the space.
- Thread rope through the grommets. Make it taut but adjustable.
- When showering, simply pull the screen closed and tie off the ends of the ropes.
- Untie and roll up the screen when not needed.
It's quick and easy to set up. And when privacy time is over, the screen stashes neatly out of sight. Install grommets and line edges for a polished look.
Adding Plants for Natural Coverage
Trees, shrubs, vines and other plant life lend homeowners natural and beautiful solutions for concealing outdoor showers. Here are some pointers for going green:
- Research growth patterns to calculate how long plants take to mature and reach desired heights/densities.
- Choose bushy, leafy plants that fill space thickly at capacity for max screening.
- Plant along the zone bordering the shower area. Place further away for fuller growth.
- Install trellises, pergolas and other structures for climbing vines to cover.
- Maintain plant health with consistent watering, fertilizing and trimming.
- Hardy evergreens work year-round in colder climates.
With the right horticultural strategy, nature can conceal your shower beautifully. Just be patient for the greenery to fill in over time.
Portable Privacy Panels
When showering in changing locations, pack up some portable privacy. Folding screens and pop-up changing rooms offer lightweight and adjustable coverage options. Here's an overview of these temporary solutions:
Plastic Folding Screens
Plastic folding screens feature connected hinged panels that expand and collapse quickly. They fold compactly for storage and transport. While usually more translucent than opaque, darker colors can block more.
Fabric Changing Rooms
Lightweight pop-up changing tents built with water-resistant nylon offer portable coverage. Mesh windows allow airflow while blocking views. Easy to transport and set up.
When scoping temporary shower screens, balance portability with privacy. Opaque materials prevent clearer sight lines. Sturdy metal or fiberglass frames withstand wind better than plastic. Whatever your needs, look for quality, durable construction.
Privacy Film and Window Tint
Adding a frosted film or tint to existing glass surfaces provides economical privacy. Static-cling options stick to windows temporarily without adhesive. For permanent installation, adhesive films professionally applied to glass doors, walls, and windows create elegant privacy. Consider heat and sunlight factors when selecting opacity levels. Privacy film also offers protection from UV rays and glare. Consult local regulations on permissible tint levels for outdoor application. With a quick film installation, you can transform transparent boundaries into discreet screening.
Decorative Additions
Ambient Lighting
Strategically placed lighting transforms a simple privacy screen into a beautiful design element. String lights along the top perimeter or hang lanterns to provide a warm glow during night showers. LED strips adhered to wood slats or bamboo create serene backlighting. Be sure to use exterior-rated fixtures with adequate water resistance.
Planters and Pots
Work planters, flower boxes and pots into the framework of your privacy screen. Vines and ferns trailing vertically complement wooden slats and fencing. Or, intersperse glass vases and ceramic pots along the top of a short barrier wall. This seamlessly melds function with an aesthetic appeal.
Art, Mirrors and Wall Decor
Since you have a captive audience during showering, take advantage by decorating the interior side of your privacy screen. Hang artwork, mirrors or wall prints to provide an artistic diversion. Ensure all additions are watertight and designed for outdoor placement.
Transforming your outdoor shower into a relaxing personal sanctuary is simple with these privacy solutions. Screens crafted from wood, plants, fabric and more prevent unwanted exposure easily. For portable protection, compact folding panels deliver ample coverage on the go. With ambient lighting and decor, you can infuse beauty and comfort into your private backyard escape.
Everyone deserves to feel at ease while bathing alfresco. Try one of these hassle-free techniques for screening outdoor showers in style. The tranquility and seclusion of an enclosed open-air shower will have you feeling immersed in peaceful bliss.