A great shower can completely change the way your bathroom feels. It’s not just about water pressure – the right type of shower can shape the entire atmosphere of your space.

Whether you want a calming retreat or a bright, energising start to your morning, at Plumb Factory, we help you bring that vision to life.

In this guide, we’ll explore all the different shower options so you can make confident choices that feel both practical and exciting.

Different Types of Shower Systems

Electric Showers

Electric showers heat the water instantly through their own internal heating element, which means they do not rely on your cylinder or boiler.

This makes them a brilliant option for homes where hot water can run low or for busy households where everyone showers at different times.

They are energy efficient, dependable and easy to install in most spaces, which is why they remain one of the most popular types of shower in the UK.

Mixer Showers

Mixer showers draw hot and cold water directly from your home’s supply and blend the two to create your ideal temperature.

They work with many different water systems and offer a classic showering experience with a smooth, natural flow. If you already have reliable hot water in your home and you want something simple, stylish and effective, a mixer shower can be a perfect choice.

Thermostatic Showers

A thermostatic shower keeps your water at a steady, comfortable temperature even when someone turns on a tap or flushes the toilet elsewhere in the house.

This makes it a great option for families or anyone who wants an extra layer of comfort and safety. You can step into the shower knowing the temperature will stay consistent from start to finish.

Power Showers

Power showers include a built in pump that boosts your water flow and creates a fuller, more indulgent spray.

They are ideal for homes with low pressure systems and for anyone who wants a luxurious feel without upgrading their entire plumbing setup. If you want the best power shower experience and you love a strong, energising flow, this type of shower is worth considering.

Digital and Smart Showers

Digital and smart showers give you precise control over temperature and flow with the help of digital panels or mobile apps.

They are becoming increasingly popular in modern bathroom design because they offer a personalised experience and a sleek, uncluttered look.

Many allow you to pre-set your perfect temperature or start the shower from across the room so it is ready when you are.

Shower Designs and Layouts

Walk-In Showers

Walk-in showers are one of the most popular choices for contemporary bathrooms because they create an open, seamless look.

With a frameless glass panel and a low level or flush tray, the space feels larger and lighter, which is ideal if you want a modern, uncluttered feel.

Walk-in showers are also incredibly easy to maintain, with fewer areas for grime to gather, and they offer excellent accessibility for all ages.

Wet Rooms

A wet room is a fully waterproofed bathroom where the shower area is level with the rest of the floor. This creates a smooth, open plan look that is perfect for modern or minimalist interiors.

Wet rooms feel spacious and are easy to clean because there are no trays or bulky enclosures to manage. They are also highly accessible, making them a strong option for future proofing your home.

If you want to explore this style further, you can visit our Wet Room Page for ideas and the products needed to bring the design to life.

Shower Baths

Shower baths offer the best of both worlds. They give you the practicality of a generous showering space with the comfort of a full bath.

This makes them a great choice for family bathrooms or layouts where you want to save space without compromising on functionality.

Many homeowners choose stylish L shaped or P shaped shower baths for a little extra room to move, along with a clean, streamlined look that blends easily with most bathroom styles.

Enclosed Shower Cubicles

Enclosed shower cubicles help to define the showering area and keep the rest of the bathroom protected from water. You can choose from sleek frameless designs or classic framed versions depending on the look you want.

Enclosures are perfect if you like a structured layout with clear zones, and they work beautifully in both small and large bathrooms. They also help the room feel organised, tidy and easy to maintain.

Exploring Shower Heads and Experiences

Rainfall Showers

Rainfall showers are one of the easiest ways to bring a spa style feel into your bathroom. They offer a gentle, even flow of water that mimics natural rainfall and creates a calming, immersive experience.

You can choose a ceiling mounted design for a true luxury look or a wall mounted version if you want something more practical for everyday use.

At Plumb Factory we supply a wide range of rainfall shower heads that work beautifully in modern bathrooms or as a statement feature in a walk in shower.

Handheld and Adjustable Shower Heads

Handheld and adjustable shower heads are perfect if you want flexibility. You can switch between spray patterns like a soft mist, a focused jet or a relaxing massage, depending on what you need that day.

They are also incredibly practical for families as they make cleaning the shower area and washing hair much easier.

Adjustable shower heads are available in a variety of styles and finishes, so it is easy to match them with the rest of your bathroom design.

Dual or Multi Head Showers

Dual or multi head showers combine the best features of rainfall and handheld options. You can enjoy a luxurious overhead flow while keeping the handheld spray available for quick rinses or more targeted use.

This setup suits busy households as well as those who want a hotel level experience at home. With clean designs and premium finishes available at Plumb Factory it is simple to choose a dual system that feels both stylish and functional.

Creating the Perfect Shower Look for Your Bathroom

If you’re looking for inspiration on ways to transform your bathroom, here are some of our favourite ideas:

Modern and Minimal

If you love clean lines and a calm, uncluttered look, pair a frameless walk in shower with a rainfall head in matte black or brushed steel. Large format tiles and a linear drain help the space feel seamless and open.

Spa Inspired Sanctuary

Soft neutral tiles, warm brass fixtures, a rainfall shower head and a handheld spray create a calming, hotel style atmosphere. Add subtle lighting and a recessed shelf for a beautiful, practical finish.

Classic Bathroom with a Twist

Chrome mixer showers, framed glass panels and marble effect tiles work wonderfully in traditional homes. This style feels timeless while still giving you all the comfort of modern showering.

Small Bathroom, Big Impact

Corner enclosures or slim shower baths are ideal when space is tight. Choose reflective tiles, clear glass and an adjustable handheld head to brighten and open up the room.

At Plumb Factory we help you match every element, from the tile finish to the shower valve, so your bathroom feels balanced, stylish and built to last.

Shower Types FAQs

What are the different types of showers available in the UK?

There are several shower types to choose from, including electric showers, mixer showers, thermostatic showers, power showers, and modern digital or smart showers. Each offers its own benefits depending on your water system and the style of bathroom you want to create.

What is the best type of shower for low water pressure?

If your home has low pressure, a power shower or a pump-assisted setup can make a huge difference. These boost the flow to give you a stronger, more enjoyable showering experience.

What is the best type of shower for a combi boiler?

Most households with a combi boiler are best suited to mixer or thermostatic showers. Both work well with on-demand hot water and provide consistent, comfortable performance.

Which type of shower is most energy efficient?

Electric showers are usually the most energy efficient because they heat only the water you use. They are a good option if you want to control running costs.

Can I install a rainfall shower in any bathroom?

Yes, as long as your plumbing and ceiling support are suitable. Rainfall showers work beautifully in both compact and large bathrooms, and they instantly add a high end feel.

Are walk in showers or wet rooms better?

Walk-in showers are straightforward to install and suit most homes. Wet rooms create a fully open, seamless look with maximum accessibility. The best option depends on your space and how you want the room to feel.

What is the best shower for a small bathroom?

Shower baths and corner enclosures help you make the most of a compact layout. They give you comfort and practicality without overcrowding the room.

What is the most luxurious shower option?

Smart showers with digital controls, rainfall heads, and dual outlets offer a spa like experience at home. They also let you fine tune settings like temperature and flow for a bespoke shower routine.

What Are The Different Types of Showers?