How High Should a Shower Bench Be? The Perfect Measurements 🚿

Adding a shower bench to your bathroom isn’t just about style—it’s about comfort, safety, and function. But before you install one, you need to know how high should a shower bench be to make sure it’s practical for everyday use.

The standard height for a shower bench is 17 to 19 inches from the floor, which follows ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines for accessibility and comfort.

In this guide, we’ll cover ideal shower bench dimensions, including how tall should a shower bench be and how deep should a shower bench be, so your bathroom upgrade is both safe and stylish.

How High Should a Shower Bench Be?

The sweet spot for most installations is 17–19 inches above the shower floor.

• Why this height? It’s the same range as a standard chair, making it comfortable for sitting and standing.

• Safety factor: This height reduces the risk of slipping while sitting down or getting up.

• Universal standard: ADA compliance ensures accessibility for all ages and mobility levels.

Pro Tip: Always measure the users in your household. If someone is especially tall or short, adjust slightly for maximum comfort.

How Tall Should a Shower Bench Be?

When homeowners ask how tall should a shower bench be, the answer ties back to the same ADA guideline: 17–19 inches. Taller benches can feel unstable, while shorter ones make it harder to stand up.

Think of it like Goldilocks—too high or too low won’t work. The 17–19 inch range is “just right” for most households.

How Deep Should a Shower Bench Be? 🛁

Height is only half the equation. If you’re wondering how deep should a shower bench be, here’s what to know:

• Standard depth: 15–16 inches deep.

• Comfort depth: Up to 20 inches, if space allows.

• Wall-mounted fold-down benches: Often slimmer (12–15 inches) to save space.

Depth affects comfort—too shallow and you’ll feel cramped, too deep and it becomes harder to stand.

Quick Reference: Shower Bench Dimensions

Measurement	Standard Range	Notes
Height	17–19 inches	ADA recommended, chair-like comfort
Depth	15–16 inches	Up to 20 inches for extra comfort
Length	24–30 inches	Ideal for one person; larger for custom builds

FAQ: Shower Bench Sizes

How high should a shower bench be? 17–19 inches above the shower floor.

How tall should a shower bench be? Same as height—17–19 inches for safety and comfort.

How deep should a shower bench be? Standard depth is 15–16 inches, with up to 20 inches for larger showers.

Do shower benches need to be ADA-compliant? Only in public spaces, but following ADA guidelines ensures accessibility at home.

Can I adjust the bench height? Yes, but stick close to the standard range for safety and ease of use.

Conclusion

When planning your remodel, the question how high should a shower bench be has a simple answer: 17–19 inches. This standard works for most people and aligns with ADA safety guidelines. Pair it with the right depth—15–16 inches—and you’ll have a bench that’s both comfortable and functional.

Whether you’re wondering how tall should a shower bench be or how deep should a shower bench be, sticking to these proven dimensions ensures your bathroom upgrade will be safe, stylish, and built to last. ✅