Home Fixtures Showers
ByAllison T.S. Robicelli
Updated: May 20, 2024
Get a refreshing clean with an outdoor shower kit that turns your outdoor space into a luxurious spa.
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VIA MERCHANT
Nothing is quite as refreshing as the feeling of bathing in crisp, outdoor air—especially on a hot day when you need to beat the heat. Have a pool and need to rinse chlorine and other pool chemicals off after a swim? Live by the beach and want to wash off the sand before heading inside? Invest in an outdoor shower kit.
Anyone who loves spending time outdoors may also consider purchasing an outdoor shower to keep themselves clean on their adventures. Buying one is a godsend for parents who want their kids to spend their summer days getting messy in the yard but don’t want them tracking dirt inside the house. Here are our picks for the best outdoor shower kits for all sorts of lifestyles.
Best Overall Outdoor Shower Kit
XtremepowerUS Solar Powered Freestanding Outdoor Shower
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Best Poolside Outdoor Shower Kit
Blue Wave Poolside Solar Freestanding Outdoor Shower
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Best Camping Outdoor Shower Kit
Nemo Equipment Helio Pressure Shower
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Best Wall Mount Outdoor Shower Kit
Homewerks Outdoor Shower Kit
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Best Budget Outdoor Shower Kit
Advanced Elements Summer Shower
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1/5
Best Overall Outdoor Shower Kit
XtremepowerUS Solar Powered Freestanding Outdoor Shower
Pros:
- Solar-powered for warm showers
- Adjustable water pressure and temperature
- Low maintenance
- Eco-friendly
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Limited water tank capacity for enough hot water for one or two hot showers at a time
By harnessing the power of solar energy, this freestanding shower effortlessly heats water supplied by your garden hose, allowing you to bathe al fresco at the perfect temperature. Additionally, it’s crafted from high-quality materials including non-corrosive brass and strong PVC piping. This durable and stylish outdoor shower kit offers adjustable water pressure for maximum enjoyment.
Mount it securely to any flat surface with the included screws and set this outdoor shower kit up on your deck or patio. An included foot spout is ideal for rinsing off sand from the beach or mud from a hike. With no electrical cords or batteries, it’s incredibly easy to assemble and store in the winter.
“This outdoor shower has served us well for the last eight years,” writes verified buyer Ronelle. “The sun heats the water inside the shower’s tower and the on-off mixer valve delivers a wonderful warm or cold shower for swimmers. This is an excellent product.”
2/5
Pros:
- Internal reservoir tower to warm water
- Built-in foot rinse
- Easy to install
- Adjustable temperature
Cons:
- Does not include privacy shelter
Enhance your poolside oasis with this solar shower. This convenient seven-foot tall outdoor shower kit is designed to wash away pool chemicals after a swim. Furthermore, it provides a refreshing rinse with warm, solar-heated water throughout the day. Once assembled, attach this outdoor shower kit to a garden hose.
“I love this,” reviewer Carolyn shares. “I don’t have a pool but have a huge Vegas table and flower garden . It has been so hot and humid (especially this year in NY) outside so I use that to cool down and wash off the dirt. I added a shower caddy with soap and towels. It is truly the best thing to get since I can’t have a pool!!”
3/5
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact for maximum portability
- Pressurized water flow
- 7-foot hose
- Solar heating for warm showers
- Includes carrying case
Cons:
- 2.9-gallon reservoir is best suited for couples or solo travelers—not families
- Privacy shelter sold separately
Enjoy camping, van life, off-grid adventures and explorations while staying clean with the Helio Pressure Shower. This lightweight and compact pump-pressurized shower has a 2.9-gallon reservoir to wash away dirt and debris at your campsite. What’s more, when exposed to direct sunlight, this outdoor shower kit has a black water reservoir that heats up water to comfortably warm temperatures.
A foot pump provides pressurized flow, and its lengthy seven-foot hose makes showering comfortable for people of all sizes. One full pump provides five to seven minutes of continuous, steady water pressure. When it’s time to pack up and head home, the Helio Pressure Shower neatly fits in the included carrying case for transport and storage.
“This pressure shower is a must-have item for any outdoor adventure,” writes five-star reviewer Sydnee J. “I take it with me on most of my car camping trips. I use it to wash dishes, clean off my gear, rinse my doggos feet off, and take quick showers at camp. It’s easy to fill and you can either leave it in the sun to heat up the water or even directly pour hot water into it.”
4/5
Pros:
- Ideal for creating a custom outdoor shower
- Eco-friendly
- Rust-resistant
- Soap dish storage
Cons:
- Might require professional installation if you're not a skilled plumber
Designed to withstand the elements, the corrosion-resistant Homewerks Outdoor Shower Kit is ideal for building a simple spot to rinse off. Or, if you’re looking for something more luxe, pair it with privacy shrubs or a gazebo kit for a secluded spa of your own design. The two-handle kit gives precise control of hot and cold water, and it includes a convenient soap dish. Lastly, this outdoor shower kit is WaterSense certified, meaning it conserves water for a greener shower without compromising performance.
5/5
Pros:
- Wallet-friendly
- Lightweight
- Convenient toiletry pouch
- Insulated panel for optimized heat retention
Cons:
- Takes several hours for the water to warm up
Experience the luxury of a hot shower in the wilderness or your backyard with the Advanced Elements Summer Shower. This portable 5-gallon solar shower is designed for ultimate convenience and performance wherever you go. Efficient two-layer construction ensures optimal heat retention. Simply fill it with water, lay it out in the sun with the clear side facing up and get a soothing hot shower in almost no time at all!
With its durable build, wide handle grip and easy-to-use shower head, this outdoor shower kit is perfect for camping, hiking or boating adventures. For an affordable outdoor shower at home, hang it on a hook outside of your shed, garage or mudroom. Moreover, it features an extra-large filling valve, twist-off cap and strong Velcro straps to hold essentials like soap and shampoo. After use, simply roll it up for effortless storage.
Five-star reviewer Nenial says this is an absolute must for camping. “On our nine-day excursion through the great Southwest we did mostly wild camping and this was essential. Nothing like bathing in the wild. It heated up fast and the capacity was perfect for both of us to shower. Love the thermometer. Very easy to use and clean. Light but very tough. Great product.”
What to Consider When Buying an Outdoor Shower Kit
Keep the following factors in mind when purchasing an outdoor shower kit:
- Durable Materials: An outdoor shower kit must be made of weather-resistant materials such as PVC, aluminum, stainless steel or treated wood.
- Privacy: Are you purchasing an outdoor shower to rinse off after a dip in the pool, or do you need something with full privacy for bathing al fresco?
- Installation: Many outdoor shower kits are freestanding, so you don’t need to be a master plumber to install them. If you want a permanent outdoor shower connected to your home’s pipework, consider hiring a professional if you don’t have any plumbing experience.
Types of Outdoor Shower Kits
- Freestanding:Ready-to-go outdoor showers have a showerhead, faucet, and base or platform. They can be installed on just about any flat surface within the range of a garden hose or outdoor spigot. Freestanding kits are excellent for poolside setup but can also be paired withprivacy enclosures.
- Wall-Mounted:These showerheads are designed to be mounted on an exterior wall of your house, garage, or shed, alongwith existing plumbing.
- Portable/Camping Shower Kits:Lightweight outdoor shower kits are designed to be taken on beach or wilderness trips. They’re also excellent to use at home if you’re looking to save money and only plan on using your outdoor shower occasionally, like after a busy day in the garden or working on a messy outdoor project.
- Solar-Powered Shower Kits:Environmentally friendly kits harness the sun’s energy to heat water in a reservoir tank for a warm, comfortable shower.
Why You Should Trust Us
Allison T.S. Robicelli has nearly 20 years of experience testing and vetting appliancesfor Family Handyman, MyDomaine, Epicurious, Food Network, Food & Wine, Bon Appétit, Wine Enthusiast, Washington Post, Serious Eats, Food52, Eater, The Takeout, Taste of Home and more.The Baltimore-based author has penned titles suchRobicelli’s: A Love Story, with Cupcakes, 11 Places in Baltimore That You Must Not Miss, The Official Back to the Future Cookbook and The Official WWE Cookbook.She is also a James Beard Award nominee. Allison isalsoa former cooking teacher at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York City and Kings Cooking Studio in New Jersey.
How We Found the Best Outdoor Shower Kits
Our experts researched the best outdoor shower kits before compiling our list. We considered each one’s features, functions and the materials that each one is made with. From there, we tested many on this list to ensure each product is worth spending money on. Our team also combed through thousands of shopper reviews to learn what real-life customers like about the kits you don’t have to. Lastly, we considered advice from industry insiders and subject matter experts on what makes a product a smartvalue and covered every price point.
FAQs
Do you need a drain for an outdoor shower?
Whether you need a drain for your outdoor shower depends on where you’re setting it up. In some instances—like if you’re setting it up near an in-ground pool or on a raised deck—you may not need to install any additional drainage. Consider water drainage before any installation, ensuring excess water is directed away from the shower space to reduce slipping hazards, mud puddles or ground saturation.
If you’re installing a permanent outdoor shower structure, check local building codes or HOA regulations before proceeding. They may require drains for proper wastewater management and to prevent environmental contamination. It’s important to check with your local authorities to determine if a drain is mandatory in your area.
Installing your outdoor shower on naturally absorbent surfaces like gravel, grass and sand may eliminate the need for a dedicated drainage system. If you still have oversaturation, consider a French drain system, which is easier to DIY than running a traditional outdoor plumbing line.
Does an outdoor shower add value?
Depending on the location of your home, adding a permanent outdoor shower structure can potentially increase its value. Houses in areas known for outdoor activities—like beaches, lakes and hiking trails—may benefit from having one installed. In warmer climates, a relaxing backyard area that is usable year-round is attractive to potential buyers.
Originally Published: June 20, 2023
Author
Allison T.S. Robicelli
Allison has nearly 20 years of experience testing and vetting appliances and has been an avid DIYer her entire life. Her work has been featured in MyDomaine, Epicurious, Food Network and more.
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