Too Tall? Too Short? How To Pick Your Custom Shower Niche Height
Finding the perfect shower niche height can be a tricky endeavor. While 60 inches from the floor is the standard recommendation, not everyone fits into that narrow range. When the niche is too high or low, showering becomes an uncomfortable and frustrating experience. Fortunately, with some planning and measurement, you can customize the installation height to match your stature and needs.
Whether you're on the shorter or taller side, share the shower with others, or want to avoid water splash, we've got you covered. Read on to learn the factors that impact niche height, from building codes to splash prevention. With the right information, you can achieve your dream shower with a customized niche height made just for you.
Standard Shower Niche Height
The most commonly recommended height for shower niches is 60 inches from the floor to the center of the niche. At this height, the niche is positioned at average eye level for most adults between 5'4" and 6' tall. The standard 60-inch height allows easy access to shampoos, soaps, razors, and other shower essentials without requiring uncomfortable crouching or reaching.
This conventional measurement has proven comfortable and practical for the majority of homeowners. While some bending may still be required, it is minimal at this centrally located niche placement. As a general rule of thumb, standard installation at 60 inches is a safe bet for the average user.
When To Consider A Lower Niche Height
While 60 inches is suitable for most, a lower niche height may be preferred or required in some scenarios. Homeowners who are shorter than average, have mobility issues impacting their range of motion, or often shower with small children should consider lowering the niche.
For those under 5'4", a niche height closer to 50 inches may be optimal. At this height, even very short users can easily see and access shower items without excessive bending, stretching, or needing a step stool. Seniors and those with disabilities benefit from a lowered niche as well, allowing safe access from a seated shower bench.
When children routinely use the same shower, lowering the niche to their height allows independence. Approximately 36-50 inches is ideal for kids and enables them to reach their bath toys and supplies. Ultimately, evaluate the heights of all regular shower users before deciding where to place the niche.
When To Install The Niche Higher
On the other end of the spectrum, shower niches may need to be installed higher up for very tall users. For those over 6 feet, the standard 60-inch height often requires uncomfortable crouching. To avoid this inconvenience, taller individuals can opt to raise the niche placement.
Approximately 65-70 inches from the floor to the midpoint of the niche is suitable for those well over average height. At this height, even 6'5" users can stand upright and access the niche without excessive hunching over. While reaching the very top of a taller niche may require minor tip-toeing, it beats a sore back.
Adjusting The Height For Shared Bathrooms
When children, parents, and grandparents all use the same shower, finding a single niche height to suit everyone can be tricky. While you can't customize a niche individually for each family member's height, some strategic compromising can help.
In most shared households, placing the niche around 50-60 inches high works reasonably well as a middle ground. Shorter users may need a small step stool, while taller users just bend down a bit. Adding grab bars at varying heights can further accommodate different statures when sharing a shower.
If there is a significant height range among users, separate niches can be installed at multiple heights. For example, installing a secondary niche higher up may work well for adults when small children use the lower niche.
Customizing Height To Prevent Water Splash
Another factor impacting ideal niche placement is the desire to avoid water splash. If a standard height niche results in water spraying or hitting the niche contents, adjusting the height may help.
For rainfall showerheads or strong water pressure, lowering the niche 6-12 inches can redirect water flow away from the niche. Angling the showerhead downward also alleviates splash. If neither option fully resolves water spray, a small splashguard above the niche may block any remaining mist.
Take some time showering to observe the water flow and any splash patterns before picking a niche height strictly for splash prevention. Be sure to test multiple niches or showerhead positions to find the best arrangement.
Check Building Codes and ADA Standards
When planning a custom niche installation, ensure your plans align with any relevant regulations. Building codes generally contain requirements related to minimum shower size and layout but may not specify niche height.
However, be sure to follow ADA accessibility standards if anyone with disabilities will use the shower. For example, ADA guidelines recommend grab bars be installed 33-36 inches from the floor and located near the shower bench.
If remodeling an existing niche, check on any required permits, too. Discuss your niche height preferences with local officials to ensure you end up compliant.
Carefully Measure The Ideal Height
Finding your perfect custom niche height takes some careful testing and measurement. Avoid guesswork by marking multiple height options on the shower wall and comparing them.
Start by marking the standard 60-inch midpoint. Have the intended users stand in the shower and attempt to reach the mark comfortably. Is reaching the niche easy or a stretch? How much bending is required?
Next, make marks 6-12 inches lower and higher. Again, have test subjects assess the comfort and ease of access at each height. Try simulated motions like grabbing shampoo bottles to best mimic real use.
Be sure to measure accurately and mark the actual center of the niche itself, not just mounting brackets. Double check your math, and confirm the niche will be mounted at the ideal ergonomic height before installing.
Planning Your Custom Niche Installation
Once you've selected the perfect custom height, now comes the fun part - picking your niche design. Consider the size, material, placement, plumbing, and other options:
- Determine the interior dimensions based on what you want to store inside.
- Select durable waterproof materials like tile, natural stone, or glass.
- Coordinate with the plumber if you want water for shampoo bottles or shower heads.
- Pick a location that avoids corners or awkward spaces.
- Match the style to your bathroom's decor - go modern, rustic, or minimalist.
An experienced contractor can help install a customized niche seamlessly into the surrounding tile or surround. With the ideal height and design, your niche will provide easy function and beautiful form.
As you can see, the perfect shower niche height depends on several factors unique to you and your bathroom space. While standard heights work for many, others benefit from customization to match their height, shower setup, use patterns, and style.
With some planning and testing, you can determine the ideal location to install your niche. Measure carefully, check codes, and test multiple heights before finalizing placement. The end result will be a shower niche that makes your daily routine more comfortable while contributing beautiful design.
No matter your height, mobility, or family needs, a customized niche can make showering a pleasure again. Stop straining your neck and back with a poorly placed niche. Instead, create your dream shower oasis with proper planning and simple adjustments to the niche installation height.