If you've ever knocked a shampoo bottle off a corner shelf mid-shower, or watched your bar soap dissolve into mush on a rusty wire caddy, you already know the struggle of shower storage. There has to be a better way—and there is.

A shower niche is one of those simple upgrades that makes a surprisingly big difference in your daily routine. It keeps your toiletries organized, your shower looking clean, and eliminates the clutter of hanging caddies and freestanding shelves.

In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about shower niches—what they are, the different types available, how to choose the right size and placement, and why they're worth considering for your next bathroom project.

What Is a Shower Niche?

A shower niche (sometimes called a shower recess or recessed shelf) is a built-in storage space carved into your shower wall. Instead of sticking out into your shower area like a shelf or caddy, it sits flush with the wall, creating a clean, streamlined look.

Think of it as a small cubby hole specifically designed to hold your shampoo, conditioner, body wash, razors, and other shower essentials. Because it's recessed into the wall, it doesn't take up any of your valuable shower space—and there's nothing to bump into or knock over.

Shower niches can be tiled to match your shower walls for a seamless look, or finished with contrasting materials to create a design focal point. Either way, they add both function and style to your bathroom.

Why Install a Shower Niche?

Still on the fence about whether a shower niche is worth it? Here are the key benefits:

Eliminates Clutter

Wire caddies rust. Suction-cup shelves fall off. Bottles lined up on the shower floor look messy and create a tripping hazard. A niche gives everything a dedicated home, keeping your shower clean and organized.

Maximizes Space

Because niches are recessed into the wall, they don't eat into your shower footprint. This is especially valuable in smaller bathrooms where every inch counts.

Easy to Clean

Unlike wire shelves with all their nooks and crannies, a properly finished niche has smooth, easy-to-wipe surfaces. No more scrubbing around rust spots or soap scum buildup in hard-to-reach places.

Adds Value to Your Home

Shower niches are a feature that home buyers notice. They signal thoughtful design and quality construction—small details that can make a bathroom feel more luxurious and well-planned.

Design Flexibility

Niches can be customized to match your style. Use the same tile as your shower walls for a seamless look, or add accent tile, contrasting grout, or even LED lighting to make it a design feature.

Types of Shower Niches

There are several types of shower niches to choose from, each with its own advantages:

Type	Description	Best For
Prefabricated (Tile-Ready)	Pre-made foam or plastic units, waterproof, ready to tile over	DIYers, standard sizes, easy installation
Finished (Ready-to-Install)	Pre-finished in stainless steel, ceramic, or stone—no tiling needed	Modern look, leak-proof guarantee, quick install
Custom-Built	Built from scratch during construction, fully customizable	Unique sizes, specific design needs, new construction
Corner Niches	Fit into corner spaces, maximize otherwise unused areas	Small showers, limited wall space, added storage

Choosing the Right Size

Size matters when it comes to shower niches. Too small, and you'll be cramming bottles on top of each other. Too large, and it can overwhelm your shower design or require significant structural work.

Here are the most common sizes and what they're best for:

•      12" x 12": The most popular size. Fits between standard wall studs and holds basic essentials. Good for minimalists or smaller showers.

•      12" x 24": Offers more vertical storage. Great for families or anyone with lots of products. Can accommodate tall bottles on one shelf and smaller items on another.

•      16" x 20": A wider option that requires cutting into studs but provides generous storage.

•      Custom sizes: For unique needs or design statements, custom niches can be built to any dimension—including full floor-to-ceiling designs.

Depth tip: Standard niche depth is 3.5" to 4", which fits most shampoo bottles comfortably. Going deeper (5"+) allows for larger bottles but requires more wall space.

Vertical vs. Horizontal Niches

The orientation you choose affects both function and aesthetics:

Vertical Niches

Taller than they are wide (like 12" x 24" or floor-to-ceiling designs). These are easier to install because they fit between existing wall studs without structural modifications. Add shelves inside to create multiple storage levels. Best for maximizing storage in a compact footprint.

Horizontal Niches

Wider than they are tall, spanning across the shower wall. These create a dramatic design statement and provide one long ledge for easy access to products. However, they require cutting through wall studs, which means additional structural support and higher installation costs. Best for larger showers where visual impact is a priority.

Where to Place Your Shower Niche

Placement can make or break your niche's functionality. Here's what to consider:

Height

•      For standing showers: 42" to 48" from the floor puts the niche at a comfortable reach for most adults.

•      For tub/shower combos: Lower placement (around waist height when standing) works better to accommodate both bathers and showerers.

•      For accessibility: Consider installing multiple niches at different heights, or a lower niche (33" to 36") for seated users.

Wall Location

•      Opposite the showerhead: The most popular spot. Keeps products visible, accessible, and away from the direct spray. This also prevents bar soap from dissolving quickly.

•      Side walls: Good alternatives if the back wall has plumbing or an exterior wall with insulation.

•      Avoid: Exterior walls (cold surfaces can cause condensation issues) and walls with plumbing inside.

Installation: What You Need to Know

Installing a shower niche isn't a simple weekend DIY project—at least not if you want it done right. Here's what's involved:

Waterproofing Is Critical

This is the most important aspect of niche installation. If water gets behind the tiles, you're looking at mold, rot, and expensive repairs down the road. The niche must be fully waterproofed with a membrane that integrates with your shower's waterproofing system. This is why prefabricated niches are often recommended—they come pre-waterproofed and sealed.

Proper Slope

The bottom of the niche should slope slightly toward the shower (about 1/8" per foot) so water drains out instead of pooling inside.

Structural Considerations

Vertical niches that fit between studs require minimal structural work. Horizontal niches that span multiple studs need headers and additional framing to maintain wall integrity. Always consult a professional if you're unsure about your wall's structure.

Design Ideas to Make Your Niche Stand Out

A shower niche doesn't have to be purely functional. Here are some ways to make it a design feature:

•      Accent tile: Use a different tile inside the niche—think mosaic, metallic, or a bold color that complements your shower tile.

•      LED lighting: Waterproof LED strips inside the niche create a spa-like glow and make it easier to find products.

•      Metal shelves: Stainless steel shelves inside the niche add a modern touch and improve drainage.

•      Contrasting grout: Even with matching tile, a different grout color can make the niche pop.

•      Natural stone: A marble or stone niche interior adds instant luxury.

Pairing Your Niche with Other Bathroom Upgrades

A shower niche is just one element of a well-designed bathroom. Consider pairing it with:

•      A modern vanity: Coordinate your niche's style with a sleek bathroom vanity for a cohesive look.

•      An LED mirror: Continue the modern aesthetic outside the shower with an LED mirror.

•      A towel warmer: Step out of your organized shower into a warm towel from a towel warmer.

•      Waterproof flooring: Complete your bathroom with durable SPC flooring that handles moisture beautifully.

Ready to Upgrade Your Shower?

A shower niche is one of those upgrades that seems small but makes a real difference in how your bathroom looks and functions. No more rusty caddies, no more bottles falling over, no more cluttered shower floors—just clean, organized storage that's built right into your wall.

Whether you're planning a full bathroom renovation or just looking to upgrade your shower, a well-placed niche can elevate the entire space.

Browse our selection of shower niches to find the perfect fit for your project, or contact our team for expert advice on choosing the right size and style.