Shower Benches at Lowe's: Types, Styles, and Buying Guide
Upgrading your bathroom with a shower seat adds both safety and spa-like luxury to your daily routine. Whether you are accommodating mobility needs, creating an accessible aging-in-place bathroom, or simply wanting a comfortable spot to sit while shaving your legs, shopping for shower benches at Lowe's offers a wide variety of practical and aesthetic choices. From fold-down teak seats to freestanding plastic stools, finding the right option depends on your space, budget, and design preferences.
Types of Shower Benches Available at Lowe's
Lowe's carries several distinct styles of shower seating. Understanding the differences between these models will help you choose a bench that fits your specific bathroom layout and functional needs.
1. Teak and Wooden Shower Benches
Teak is the gold standard for bathroom wood because of its natural water resistance and durability. Teak benches offer a warm, spa-like aesthetic that elevates the look of any tile shower. These models often feature slatted tops for proper drainage and built-in lower shelves to hold shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. While they generally cost more than plastic alternatives, they are exceptionally sturdy and add high-end resale value to your home.
2. Plastic and Acrylic Stools
For a lightweight, budget-friendly, and maintenance-free option, plastic and acrylic shower stools are widely available. These materials will never rust, rot, or stain, making them incredibly easy to clean. Many plastic options feature slip-resistant rubber feet and textured seating surfaces to prevent sliding in soapy water. They are usually compact, making them ideal for standard-sized tub-shower combinations where space is at a premium.
3. Fold-Down Wall-Mounted Seats
If you have a small walk-in shower or want to keep your floor completely clear for cleaning, a wall-mounted fold-down bench is an excellent choice. When professionally anchored to wall studs, these seats can support significant weight while folding flat against the wall when not in use. They are particularly popular in modern, ADA-compliant, or minimalist bathroom designs.
4. Corner Shower Benches
Maximizing space is a common challenge in bathroom design. Corner benches fit snugly into the 90-degree angle of a shower stall, utilizing dead space to provide a comfortable seat without cramping the walking area. They come in both freestanding portable designs and tile-ready units that can be permanently installed during a remodel.
Key Features to Consider Before You Buy
Before heading to your local store or ordering online, keep these crucial factors in mind to ensure you select the best product for your household:
- Weight Capacity: Always check the manufacturer's weight limit. Standard freestanding stools typically support 250 to 300 pounds, while heavy-duty or wall-mounted models can support 400 pounds or more.
- Dimensions: Measure your shower floor space carefully. Ensure that a freestanding bench leaves enough room for you to comfortably step in and out without tripping.
- Drainage: Look for seats with slatted tops, perforated surfaces, or slight contours to prevent pooling water, which can cause slipping hazards and soap scum buildup.
- Portability vs. Permanence: Decide whether you want a portable stool you can easily remove for cleaning or traveling, or a permanently mounted seat that offers maximum stability.
Installation Tips for Shower Benches
How you install your shower bench depends entirely on the type you purchase. Freestanding plastic and teak benches require zero installation—you simply unbox them, place them in the shower, and they are ready to use. Just make sure the rubber feet are firmly gripping the shower floor.
On the other hand, wall-mounted folding seats require careful installation. Because they must bear substantial weight, they must be screwed directly into structural wall studs or reinforced blocking behind the tile. If you are not confident in locating studs and sealing drill holes against water infiltration, it is best to hire a professional contractor to handle the installation to prevent long-term water damage to your walls.
Maintenance and Care
To keep your shower seat looking brand new, regular maintenance is required depending on the material:
- Teak Wood Care: Rinse the bench after every use to wash away soap residue. Allow your bathroom to ventilate properly. Every few months, apply a teak oil to preserve the rich color and maintain its natural water-repellent properties.
- Plastic and Metal Care: Wipe down acrylic or aluminum frames weekly with a mild, non-abrasive bathroom cleaner to prevent soap scum and mold growth. Check rubber tips periodically for wear and tear.
Shopping Options: In-Store vs. Online
Lowe's makes shopping for bathroom upgrades convenient. While smaller plastic stools are often stocked directly on the shelves in the bath aisle, specialized teak benches and wall-mounted ADA seats may have limited in-store inventory. Browsing online allows you to read customer reviews, check local store stock, and utilize ship-to-store or home delivery options. Keep an eye out for seasonal bathroom sales to secure the best price on your new shower bench.
