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There's something almost magical about rinsing off in the open air after a swim. The sun gently caresses your shoulders. The cool water gently washes away the chlorine. The moment feels both simple and oddly luxurious. Outdoor showers might seem like a minor upgrade, but for a pool deck, they carry much more than their weight. They help keep things cleaner, pool days simpler, and that easygoing vacation vibe right in your backyard.
A well-made outdoor shower for a pool deck enhances the aesthetic and boosts your property value. It promotes cleanliness and contributes to convenience, too. Let's look at some outdoor shower ideas to add luxury to your pool area.
Why Install an Outdoor Shower Near Your Pool Deck?
Nobody talks about this, but pools can be messy. Before you even get in, you're carrying dirt, body oils, sunscreen, and who knows what else. All that stuff ends up floating in your pool water if you don't rinse first. Your filtration system has to work harder before the water reaches your showerhead. You need more chemicals. The water stays cloudy longer.
Here's what happens when you rinse before swimming:
| Benefit | Impact |
|---|---|
| Reduced contaminants | Less sunscreen and body oils in pool water |
| Lower chemical usage | The filtration system doesn't work overtime |
| Cleaner water | Fewer chloramines are formed from organic matter |
| Better skin health | Rinsing before swimming removes excess sweat and reduces chloramine formation on skin. |
After swimming? The situation remains the same, but the cause differs. Chlorine sitting on your skin isn't beneficial. It dries you out, irritates sensitive skin, and leaves that tight, uncomfortable feeling. Kids especially hate it. A quick outdoor rinse under a cozy showerhead washes it away before it becomes a problem.
But outdoor showers do more than pool prep. They become the spot where:
- Kids rinse muddy feet after playing in the yard
- You clean up after gardening without walking dirt through the house
- Guests freshen up without crowding your bathroom
- The dog gets a quick wash after a messy adventure
They're one of those features you use way more than you think you will.
Types of Outdoor Showers for Pool Decks
If you start browsing, you'll encounter multiple types of outdoor showers. Listed below are the three designs that dominate drainage solutions. No matter what your pool layout is, they'll work wonders.
Freestanding Outdoor Showers
These showers stand on their own without needing a wall. They look modern, sculptural, and intentionally placed. Why people love them:
- Easy to position anywhere
- Great as a design focal point
- Apt for large decks, patios, tall plants or spaces with landscaping
Freestanding outdoor showers give you the feel of a rinse station at a boutique hotel.
Wall-Mounted Outdoor Showers
Plumbing becomes easier with wall-mounted setups. They attach to an exterior wall, which means less hardware and fewer installation decisions. Perks include:
- Space-saving design
- Ideal for compact pool decks
- Often more cost-friendly
- Simplifies hot water hookups
If your pool sits near the home's exterior or pool house, this style becomes an innovative and affordable pick.
Enclosed Outdoor Showers
Some families prefer privacy. Enter the shower enclosure. These can be simple slatted structures or full wooden stalls that feel like cabana-style spaces. Best for homeowners who want:
- Privacy
- A dedicated changing area
- A clean and contained spot for rinsing
You can add stone floors, warm lighting, or even a built-in bench to elevate the experience and create a secret-garden feel.
Best Materials for Outdoor Showers
The material you choose determines how long the outdoor shower lasts, how it ages, and how it blends with your deck. One of the most prevalent outdoor shower materials is stainless steel, followed by aluminum. Let’s see why.
Stainless Steel Outdoor Showers
Wherever you see an outdoor shower, you’ll notice that a majority of them are made of stainless steel. Ever thought why? That’s because there’s no material more credible than stainless steel for moist and wet areas near pools. Some fantastic features of stainless steel outdoor showers are:
- Resists rust and corrosion very well
- Compared to other metals, it’s excellent at handling chlorine and salt exposure
- Cleaning and maintaining is super easy.
- Modern finish that fits most pool deck styles
316 marine-grade stainless steel is especially popular for harsh outdoor conditions. It stays strong and looks great even after years of outdoor exposure.
Aluminum Outdoor Showers
If you’re someone who wants a lightweight and practical material without compromising on quality, aluminum is an option for you. For homeowners browsing for a low-maintenance outdoor shower without the heavy industrial look, it’s an apt choice.
Key benefits of an aluminum outdoor shower are:
- Resist corrosion naturally
- Easy to install and never feels heavy
- Fit in your budget
- Come with powder-coated finishes that strengthen the material
Materials like 5502-aluminum alloy don’t just offer strength but also aesthetics. This also enhances the appeal of your pool deck.
Outdoor Shower Accessories to Enhance Your Pool Deck
The right accessories completely transform how guests use the shower. They transform a rinse station into an actual outdoor wash area. Here are some applicable supplements:
- Shelves or caddies for soap, shampoo, sun cream
- Towel hooks so that swimmers aren’t throwing towels all over chairs
- Outdoor lighting for evening swims
- For the sake of safety, a non-slip mat or stone pad
- Foot rinsers to wash off sand or grass
None of these improvements is expensive, but they do make the shower a lot more fun. These accessories also make your shower enclosure apt for guests coming from the hot tub, outdoor kitchen, pergola, or pool area.
Installation Tips for Outdoor Showers
Getting the installation right is key to avoiding expensive headaches later. Before you start:
- Check local codes. Outdoor plumbing is even subject to permits in some places. Find out before you dig.
- Think through the location carefully. You want it near the pool, but not so close that water runoff forms standing puddles. A gentle slope away from the shower aids in drainage.
- Consider sun exposure. Full afternoon sun could result in a shower that’s too hot to be comfortable. Full shade might be too chilly. Seek partial shade or plan accordingly.
- Hire a pro for plumbing. Get professional help if you don't believe in your DIY skills. They'll ensure the system is correctly winterized in cold climates, with sufficient water pressure and no leaks. Hot water can bring more complications with heater hookups or tankless systems.
- Plan drainage properly. Some setups are drained into the ground. Meanwhile, others attach to your home’s drainage system. Depending on the regulations in your area and your personal style, a gravel bed, permeable pavers, or slatted wooden platforms can make excellent shower floors.
Maintenance Tips for Outdoor Pool Showers
Outdoor showers are low maintenance, but a little attention goes a long way. Try this simple care routine:
- Rinse metal fixtures weekly to prevent mineral deposits
- Inspect wood or concrete for seasonal wear
- Clear drains or gravel beds of buildup
- Use a mild soap to clean surfaces
- In cold regions, winterize the plumbing before temperatures drop
Conclusion
An outdoor shower by the pool is one of those upgrades that you never regret. It gives your backyard a luxurious resort-like feel, improves outdoor living, and keeps your pool cleaner. Whether it's brass, granite, concrete, freestanding styles, or enclosed builds, you can choose one that suits your lifestyle, priorities, and deck.
But while picking one, go with something that fits your space. Accessorize it so it is functional. And savor the cool, everyday luxury of rinsing off in the wonderful outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have some doubts around outdoor shower ideas? Let's clear them.
Can an outdoor shower connect to hot water?
Yes. Most setups can connect to your home's hot water line. With a simple mixing valve, you can adjust the temperature for a comfy shower.
What is the best type of outdoor shower for a pool deck?
Different outdoor shower types offer perks. Freestanding is for flexibility, wall-mounted ones are ideal for small spaces, and enclosed ones are apt for privacy. Your layout decides the winner.
What materials work best for outdoor showers near pools?
Stainless steel and aluminum are the most commonly used materials for outdoor showers. They do exceptionally well outdoors and keep corrosion away.
Are outdoor showers safe for pool decks?
Yes, when installed correctly with appropriate drainage and a non-slip surface.
Can I install an outdoor shower on a small pool deck?
Absolutely. For tight outdoor spaces and small pool decks, a wall-mounted design is ideal for an outdoor shower.
