12 types of shower enclosures and how to choose them

Release time : August 27 2025

12 Types of Shower Enclosures and How to Choose Them

The shower enclosure is more than just a barrier between wet and dry areas in your bathroom—it's a design statement that shapes the room's character, functionality, and even how you feel during your daily routine. Whether you're dreaming of a sleek, spa-like retreat or need a practical solution for a small bathroom, the right shower enclosure can elevate both form and function. With so many options on the market, from minimalist glass panels to space-saving sliders, it can be tough to know where to start. That's why we're breaking down 12 common types of shower enclosures, their unique perks, and how to pick the perfect one for your space.

The 12 Types of Shower Enclosures

1. Frameless Shower Enclosures

Frameless shower enclosures are the gold standard for modern bathrooms, known for their sleek, unobstructed look. They're made with thick, tempered glass (typically 10–12mm thick) held in place by minimal hardware like hinges, clips, or brackets—no bulky metal frames in sight. This design creates a sense of openness, making even small bathrooms feel larger.

Pros

Visually stunning, with clean lines that complement modern, minimalist, or luxury designs
Easy to clean—no frame edges to trap soap scum or mildew
Durable tempered glass resists scratches and chips

Cons

More expensive than framed or semi-frameless options (installation costs add up too)
Requires precise measurements and professional installation to ensure a watertight seal
Glass may need occasional sealing to prevent water spots

Best for: Medium to large bathrooms with a focus on design; works well with walk-in showers or freestanding tubs.

2. Semi-Frameless Shower Enclosures

If you love the look of frameless enclosures but want to save some budget, semi-frameless is the sweet spot. These enclosures have a thin metal frame around the edges of the glass panels (usually aluminum) but no frame on the door itself. The result is a balance of style and affordability, with just enough structure to keep costs down without sacrificing aesthetics.

Pros

More affordable than frameless, with a similar modern vibe
Sturdier than frameless in some cases, thanks to the partial frame
Easier to install than fully frameless options

Cons

Frame edges can collect grime over time, requiring more frequent cleaning
Less "open" look compared to fully frameless designs
Frame color options may be limited (often silver, black, or white)

Best for: Budget-conscious renovators who want a modern look; ideal for standard-sized bathrooms with tub-shower combos or corner setups.

3. Framed Shower Enclosures

Framed shower enclosures are the most traditional and budget-friendly option, featuring a full metal frame (usually aluminum or steel) around all glass panels and the door. The glass is thinner (often 6–8mm) than frameless or semi-frameless, and the frame provides structural support. While they're not as trendy as their frameless counterparts, they're reliable and widely available.

Pros

Most affordable option, making them great for rental properties or budget renos
Durable and low-maintenance (the frame hides minor imperfections in the glass)
Easy to find replacement parts if needed

Cons

Can look bulky or outdated in modern bathrooms
Frame crevices trap water and soap scum, requiring regular deep cleaning
Limited design flexibility—frame colors and styles are often basic

Best for: Small bathrooms, rental units, or anyone prioritizing cost over high-end design.

4. Sliding Shower Doors

Sliding (or bypass) shower doors are a practical choice for bathrooms where space is tight. Instead of swinging open, the doors slide along a track, overlapping slightly to seal the shower. They're common in tub-shower combos and walk-in showers, offering easy access without requiring extra clearance for a swinging door.

Pros

Space-saving—no need for extra room to swing the door open
Easy to use, even for kids or older adults
Available in framed, semi-frameless, or frameless designs to match any style

Cons

Tracks can collect hair and debris, needing regular cleaning
Sliding mechanism may wear out over time, requiring adjustments
Overlap between doors can create a small gap where water might leak (though good-quality seals minimize this)

Best for: Narrow bathrooms, tub-shower combinations, or walk-in showers with limited clearance around the door.

5. Hinged Shower Doors

Hinged (or pivot) shower doors swing open like a traditional door, attached to the enclosure frame or wall with hinges. They're a classic choice for walk-in showers and can open inward or outward (check local building codes—some areas require outward swing for safety). Hinged doors often have a more premium feel than sliding doors, with smoother operation and a tighter seal.

Pros

Easy to clean—no track to trap dirt
Creates a wide opening for easy access (great for larger showers)
Durable hinges mean long-lasting performance with minimal maintenance

Cons

Requires clearance for the door to swing (at least the width of the door)
Not ideal for small bathrooms where space around the shower is limited
Can be pricier than sliding doors, especially in frameless designs

Best for: Spacious bathrooms with walk-in showers; pairs well with modern or traditional design styles.

6. Bi-Fold Shower Doors

Bi-fold shower doors are like the accordion of the shower world—they fold in on themselves when opened, taking up minimal space. They're made of multiple glass panels connected by hinges, folding inward to create an opening. This design is perfect for tiny bathrooms or shower stalls where even sliding doors might not fit.

Pros

Extremely space-efficient—requires almost no clearance to open
Creates a wide opening despite the small footprint
Works well in corner showers or compact stalls

Cons

Hinges between panels can collect water and grime, needing frequent cleaning
May feel less sturdy than solid hinged or sliding doors
Limited design options compared to other door types

Best for: Very small bathrooms, corner shower stalls, or any space where every inch counts.

7. Corner Shower Enclosures

Corner shower enclosures are designed to fit into the corner of a bathroom, maximizing floor space by utilizing often-wasted corner areas. They come in various shapes—most commonly neo-angle (with angled panels) or square/rectangular—and can feature sliding, hinged, or bi-fold doors. This type is a favorite for small to medium bathrooms looking to save space without sacrificing style.

Pros

Space-saving, ideal for bathrooms with limited square footage
Adds visual interest by breaking up the room's layout
Available in a range of sizes, from compact stalls to larger walk-in options

Cons

May feel cramped in very small corners (opt for a neo-angle design to open up the space)
Door options can be limited depending on the enclosure's shape
Requires precise corner measurements to ensure a proper fit

Best for: Small to medium bathrooms, especially those with an empty corner that could be put to use.

8. Walk-In Shower Enclosures

Walk-in shower enclosures are all about luxury and accessibility—they feature a large, open entrance with no door (or a minimal door) and a low or zero-threshold base. This design creates a seamless, spa-like feel, making them popular in modern and high-end bathrooms. They can be custom-built to fit any space, from small niches to expansive master bathroom retreats.

Pros

Open, airy feel that makes bathrooms appear larger
Easy to access (great for people with mobility issues)
Highly customizable—choose materials, shapes, and features like built-in benches or niches

Cons

Higher risk of water splashing outside the shower (requires good drainage and possibly a half-wall or glass panel)
More expensive than standard enclosures, especially with custom features
Needs adequate ventilation to prevent mold and mildew

Best for: Large bathrooms, master suites, or anyone wanting a luxurious, accessible shower experience.

9. Neo-Angle Shower Enclosures

Neo-angle shower enclosures are a subset of corner enclosures, with angled glass panels that create a diamond-like shape. Instead of square or rectangular panels meeting at 90 degrees, neo-angle enclosures have a central panel that angles back, making the shower feel more open than a traditional square corner enclosure. They often feature sliding doors that glide along the angled panels, saving space while adding a modern touch.

Pros

More spacious than square corner enclosures, thanks to the angled design
Sliding doors save space and complement the enclosure's shape
Visually unique, adding a modern twist to corner showers

Cons

Can be more expensive than basic square corner enclosures
Door tracks may be harder to clean than those on standard sliding doors
Requires precise measurements to ensure the angled panels fit the corner correctly

Best for: Medium-sized bathrooms where you want a corner shower with a more open, modern feel.

10. Steam Shower Enclosures

Steam shower enclosures are designed to turn your bathroom into a personal sauna, with airtight seals, a steam generator, and often additional features like built-in speakers, lighting, or aromatherapy systems. They're fully enclosed (usually with frameless or semi-frameless glass) to trap steam, and the glass is often treated to resist condensation. This type is a splurge, but it's perfect for anyone craving a spa experience at home.

Pros

Offers therapeutic benefits, from muscle relaxation to improved circulation
Adds luxury and value to your home
Can be customized with high-end features like chromotherapy or rainfall showerheads

Cons

Very expensive, with costs including the enclosure, steam generator, and installation
Requires proper ventilation to prevent mold growth when not in use
Needs a dedicated electrical circuit for the steam generator

Best for: Spacious master bathrooms, wellness enthusiasts, or anyone willing to invest in a high-end home spa experience.

11. Custom-Made Shower Enclosures

When standard sizes and shapes won't cut it, custom-made shower enclosures are the answer. These are built to your exact specifications, whether you have an unusual bathroom layout, non-standard dimensions, or a unique design vision. Custom enclosures can incorporate any door type, glass thickness, or hardware finish, making them a favorite for homeowners with specific tastes or challenging spaces.

Pros

Perfect fit for any space, no matter how unique
Unlimited design options—match your bathroom's style exactly
High-quality materials and craftsmanship (when working with a reputable provider)

Cons

Significantly more expensive than standard enclosures
Longer lead time for design, manufacturing, and installation
Requires careful planning and precise measurements to avoid mistakes

Best for: Bathrooms with unusual layouts, historic homes, or anyone who wants a one-of-a-kind shower design.

12. Tub-Shower Enclosures

Tub-shower enclosures combine a shower and bathtub in one, making them a practical choice for bathrooms where space is too limited for separate fixtures. They typically feature a shower curtain or glass doors that cover the tub when in use, and they come in framed, semi-frameless, or frameless designs. This type is common in family bathrooms, guest bathrooms, and rental properties.

Pros

Space-saving, combining two fixtures into one
More affordable than installing separate shower and tub
Versatile—great for families with kids or anyone who enjoys both showers and baths

Cons

Can feel cramped compared to a standalone shower or tub
Glass doors may require more cleaning than curtains (though they're more durable)
Design options can be limited compared to standalone enclosures

Best for: Small to medium bathrooms, family homes, or anyone who wants the flexibility of both a shower and a tub.

Quick Comparison: 12 Shower Enclosure Types

Type	Best For	Space Needed	Budget Level	Maintenance
Frameless	Modern, spacious bathrooms	Medium to large	High	Low (easy to clean)
Semi-Frameless	Budget modern bathrooms	Medium	Medium	Medium (frame needs cleaning)
Framed	Rental or budget bathrooms	Any	Low	High (frame traps grime)
Sliding	Narrow bathrooms	Medium (horizontal space)	Medium	Medium (track cleaning)
Hinged	Spacious walk-ins	Large (swing clearance)	Medium to high	Low (no track)
Bi-Fold	Very small bathrooms	Very small	Medium	High (hinge cleaning)
Corner	Small to medium bathrooms	Small (corner space)	Low to medium	Medium
Walk-In	Master bathrooms	Large	High	Medium (drainage key)
Neo-Angle	Corner spaces	Small to medium	Medium	Medium
Steam	Spa-like bathrooms	Large	Very high	High (ventilation needed)
Custom-Made	Unique layouts	Any	Very high	Varies (depends on design)
Tub-Shower	Small family bathrooms	Medium (tub space)	Low to medium	Medium

How to Choose the Right Shower Enclosure for Your Bathroom

With so many options, picking the perfect shower enclosure can feel overwhelming. But by focusing on a few key factors, you can narrow down your choices and find the one that fits your space, style, and needs.

1️⃣ Measure Your Space First

Start by grabbing a tape measure—your bathroom's dimensions will dictate most of your options. For small bathrooms, prioritize space-saving types like corner enclosures, bi-fold doors, or sliding doors. If you have a large bathroom, consider walk-in or frameless enclosures for a luxurious feel. Don't forget to measure door swing clearance (for hinged doors) or track space (for sliding doors) to avoid installation headaches later.

2️⃣ Think About Your Bathroom Layout

Is your bathroom long and narrow? A sliding door might work better than a hinged one. Got an empty corner? A neo-angle or square corner enclosure could transform that wasted space. If you share the bathroom with kids or older family members, prioritize accessibility—walk-in enclosures with low thresholds or wide doors are great options. And if you have a tub, a tub-shower combo enclosure will maximize functionality.

3️⃣ Choose Materials Wisely

The glass and hardware materials matter for both durability and style. Tempered glass is a must (it's safer and stronger than regular glass), and thicker glass (10–12mm) works best for frameless enclosures. For hardware, stainless steel or brass resists rust in humid bathrooms, while matte black or brushed nickel adds a modern touch. When exploring options, many providers offer solutions tailored to different needs—from budget-friendly framed glass to high-end, scratch-resistant coatings—so don't hesitate to ask about material options that fit your lifestyle.

4️⃣ Set a Realistic Budget

Shower enclosures range widely in price, so know your budget before falling in love with a design. Framed enclosures are the most affordable (starting around $300–$800), while frameless can cost $1,000–$3,000 or more. Custom or steam enclosures will be pricier, but they're worth it if they align with your long-term goals. Remember to factor in installation costs too—professional installation is recommended for most enclosures, especially frameless or custom ones.

5️⃣ Don't Forget Maintenance

How much time do you want to spend cleaning your shower? Frameless enclosures are easiest to maintain (no frame to trap grime), while framed or bi-fold enclosures require more frequent scrubbing. If you hate cleaning, look for glass with anti-stain or anti-condensation coatings—many suppliers offer these as add-ons. Also, consider drainage: walk-in enclosures need excellent floor slope to prevent water pooling, which can lead to mold if not addressed.

6️⃣ Match Your Design Style

Your shower enclosure should complement your bathroom's overall style. For modern bathrooms, go with frameless or semi-frameless enclosures with sleek hardware. Traditional bathrooms pair well with framed enclosures or warm metal finishes like brass. Rustic bathrooms might benefit from textured glass or stone accents. And if you're going for a spa vibe, steam enclosures or walk-ins with built-in niches and rainfall showerheads will tie the look together.

Final Thoughts

Your shower enclosure is more than just a functional element—it's a daily reminder of your bathroom's style and your personal taste. Whether you opt for a space-saving corner enclosure, a luxurious frameless design, or a custom-made masterpiece, the right choice will make your bathroom feel more spacious, stylish, and tailored to you. By considering your space, budget, and needs, you'll find an enclosure that not only works for your bathroom but also makes every shower feel like a little retreat. So take your time, explore your options, and don't be afraid to mix and match—after all, the best shower enclosure is the one that feels uniquely yours.