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Outdoor showers can provide a convenient, inexpensive way to rinse off after work or play, and there is no easier way to wash a muddy dog. For those with bigger budgets, outdoor showers can be attractive garden features that combine useful function with personal pampering. Outdoor showers come in a huge variety of styles, from basic models that attach to a garden hose to those with hot and cold water, rainfall heads, and multiple jets.
Our best overall outdoor shower is the Gontonovo Outdoor Shower Faucet Combo Set for its three-faucet design, impressive 1.24-gallon-per-minute (GPM) flow rate, and durable stainless steel construction. However, all of the selected models on this list were thoroughly vetted for effectiveness and reliability.
Just ahead we investigate the key features of each and focus on some more of the best outdoor showers for different situations and purposes.
- BEST OVERALL: Gontonovo Outdoor Shower Faucet Combo Set
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Homewerks Utility Shower Kit
↓ Jump to Review - BEST SOLAR-POWERED: Giantex 9.3 Gallon Solar Heated Shower
↓ Jump to Review - BEST GARDEN/POOLSIDE: Poolmaster Poolside Portable Shower
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FREESTANDING: Wayime Freestanding Waterfall Outdoor Shower
↓ Jump to Review - BEST WALL-MOUNTED: Aolemi Outdoor Shower Faucet System
↓ Jump to Review - BEST CAMPING: Hike Crew Portable Propane Water Heater & Shower Pump
↓ Jump to Review - BEST OFF-GRID: Camplux Portable Propane Tankless Water Heater
↓ Jump to Review - BEST RECHARGEABLE: Kedsum Portable Camp Shower Pump
↓ Jump to Review - BEST MARINE-GRADE: Pulse Showerspas Wave Outdoor Shower System
↓ Jump to Review - BEST COMPACT: Iron Hammer Portable Electric Camping Shower
↓ Jump to Review
Before You Buy an Outdoor Shower
While outdoor showers have many benefits, those looking at permanent backyard installations may encounter a variety of challenges. Unfortunately, in some cases they may not be suitable for a particular location. Climate, water supply, and privacy are key considerations.
- Those who live in cooler areas will want to think about how much of the year the outdoor shower will be usable before making a significant investment.
- While it might initially seem straightforward to select a preferred location, the plumbing required might add significant cost. There’s also the question of drainage. Allowing water to simply soak into the ground might violate local codes.
- In urban areas there might be problems with being visible while showering. Enclosures can provide a solution, but they can also detract from the sensation of outdoor showering.
How We Chose the Best Outdoor Showers
We spent many hours investigating the wide variety of sturdy outdoor showers available. The object was to find solutions for diverse needs and different budgets.
Often our focus in product reviews is on particular aspects of performance where comparison is made between a number of similar models. That’s not really the case here, where we have tried to differentiate between the benefits of the various different types of showers and provide models for many different locations.
Quality is always important. Although lightweight PVC and plastic units don’t have the durability of brass and stainless steel, we tried to strike a balance between cost and suitability for the task expected of the unit.
Our Top Picks
Now it’s time to look at some real-world examples of the best outdoor showers. The following incorporate many of the different choices available and represent some of the best outdoor showers in their categories. We included a list of pros and cons with each of our top picks as well as some of the most notable product specs.
Best Overall
Gontonovo Outdoor Shower Faucet Combo Set
Product Specs
- Finish: Brushed nickel or matte black stainless steel and brass
- GPM: 1.26
- Shower head: Rainfall, plus handheld cylinder or round
Pros
- Versatile showering options; overhead and handheld unit included to wash or rinse
- Durable materials; made with stainless steel and brass for long-term durability
- Relatively easy to install in any outdoor space; most DIYers should be able to install this model
Cons
- Modest flow rate; may not suit some users’ preferences
- A few leaks reported by some users
With such a huge selection of outdoor showers available, picking a single best model is challenging. However, few combine the quality and variety of choices of the Gotonovo at such an affordable price.
The main 8-inch-diameter rainfall shower head extends 14.5 inches, giving plenty of reach, and is also height adjustable. An additional handheld unit is provided on a flexible hose, and this can be either cylindrical or round. A simple lever switches between the two heads, and there’s a central mixer for hot and cold. The underlying materials are stainless steel and brass, which should ensure durability. The shower is available in brushed nickel or matte black finishes. An adapter to allow the use of hoses rather than fixed water pipes is available at an extra cost.
Get the Gontonovo outdoor shower at Amazon or Walmart.
Best Bang for the Buck
Homewerks Utility Shower Kit
Product Specs
- Finish: Chrome
- GPM: 1.8
- Shower head: Overhead
Pros
- Easy to install in most outdoor spaces; hoses and pipework can be attached from underneath or above
- Good flow rate; provides a high-pressure stream to wash or rinse
- Budget price compared to similar options available
Cons
- Basic shower head; not as stylish as comparable options
- Finish quality varies; may not provide long-term durability
This Homewerks model provides outdoor showering for very little money. Most of the construction is chrome-plated brass, though steel is used for fittings. Castings aren’t of the highest quality, meaning the shower is functional rather than particularly attractive. It does have a good flow rate, though the shower head is basic. However, the standard thread means it could easily be upgraded.
Hoses or pipework can be attached from underneath or above, and attaching it to a wall or other upright surface is straightforward. However, a little care will be needed with positioning as there is no height adjustment. A plug in the bottom allows easy draining for winterizing.
Get the Homewerks outdoor shower at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.
Best Solar-Powered
Giantex 9.3 Gallon Solar Heated Shower
Product Specs
- Finish: Black PVC, chromed brass fittings
- GPM: Not provided
- Shower head: Rainfall, foot faucet
Pros
- Provides users with hot water anywhere in the yard via sunlight; holds 9.3 gallons at a time
- Simple controls; 1 knob controls the overhead shower head, and lower tap near the ground has its own knob
- Solar-heated shower is suitable for the eco-conscious consumer
Cons
- Water warmth depends on weather conditions in a given area
- Extra hose adapter may be required for proper use
One of the major challenges with enjoying warm showers far from the home is the provision of hot water. Giantex solves the problem with this freestanding outdoor solar shower. The black PVC body absorbs the sun’s warmth and heats the water inside.
The theoretical maximum is 140 degrees Fahrenheit, which is well above the usual comfort level of 105 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit. A simple temperature control is fixed to the front of this freestanding shower. The 9.3-gallon capacity is sufficient for a quick, solar-heated shower, but once emptied can take some time to reheat. How long varies, as it is entirely dependent on the weather. When full, the Giantex solar-heated shower weighs more than 70 pounds, so it needs to be mounted to a solid cement or fixed tile base for safety.
Get the Giantex outdoor shower at Amazon or Walmart.
Best Garden/Poolside
Poolmaster Poolside Portable Shower
Product Specs
- Finish: White PVC
- GPM: Not provided
- Shower head: Overhead
Pros
- Detachable head with hose provides ample reach where needed
- Durable PVC construction lasts for long-term use; suitable for backyards, camping, or pool spaces
- Modest cost compared to similar outdoor showers on the market
Cons
- Cold water supply only; may not be suitable for some users’ preferences
- Care needed during assembly; some parts may be difficult to put together
The Poolmaster portable camping shower is a lightweight, weather-resistant, noncorrosive PVC construction that focuses on ease of use and portability. It connects to a standard garden hose and is operated by a simple on/off valve. It is a convenient way to rinse off after a swim, clean a muddy dog, or clean up after doing yard work. The hollow base is designed to be filled with sand so it won’t topple easily.
The height of the shower head is 81 inches, accommodating taller users. The shower head has a hose and can be used independently. Some assembly is required, and it is important to do this carefully in order to seat the washers properly and prevent leaks.
Get the Poolmaster outdoor shower at Amazon.
Best Freestanding
Wayime Freestanding Waterfall Outdoor Shower
Product Specs
- Finish: 304 stainless steel
- GPM: 4.4
- Shower head: Waterfall plus foot spout
Pros
- Stylish, slender statement piece; won’t take up a lot of space in smaller outdoor areas
- Unusual waterfall effect provides sufficient water for washing and rinsing
- Additional low tap for cleaning feet and legs; ideal for those who live near the beach or a lake
- Easy-to-use controls; each stainless steel knob is labeled clearly for ease of use
Cons
- Waterfall effect may not appeal to everyone’s taste
At 85 inches tall but only 3 inches in diameter, the Wayime stainless steel freestanding outdoor shower certainly makes an impression. The stainless steel column is durable and easy to clean. Stylish chrome-plated brass fittings and a foot spout maintain the sleek appearance. A rate of 4.4 GPM provides plenty of flow for the waterfall head.
A six-bolt base offers good stability for this stainless steel freestanding outdoor shower. This is also where the water supply is attached. While this does keep everything concealed and discreet, it also means the shower would need to be taken down to resolve any leaks. While there are provisions for both hot and cold water, separate valves mean it can be used with cold water alone.
Get the Wayime outdoor shower at Amazon.
Best Wall-Mounted
Aolemi Outdoor Shower Faucet System
Product Specs
- Finishes: Brushed nickel, black, and matte black
- GPM: 1.24
- Shower head: Overhead plus handheld and foot spout
Pros
- Made with 304 stainless steel; will not scratch or discolor
- Comes with overhead, handheld, and foot spouts for excellent versatility
- Includes a diverter valve, air technology for high pressure, and a sliding bar on the overhead faucet
- Both the overhead shower faucet and the foot spout are adjustable to achieve the desired angle
Cons
- Some users have reported that the valve can leak; may require some tinkering if used roughly
Reliability meets convenience with this shower faucet system from Aolemi. This 304 stainless steel model delivers 1.24 GPM through its overhead, handheld, and foot spout faucets and comes in either matte black, black, or brushed nickel. This option’s durable construction provides anti-oxidation and anti-scratch protection and won’t discolor in inclement weather.
The handheld faucet includes a 5-foot hose for rinsing children, dogs, and outdoor items. There is also a labeled diverter valve to switch between the faucets, and the adjustable overhead shower includes air technology making it a high-pressure shower head. This top pick also comes with a sliding bar on the overhead shower head to adjust the height between 36 and 59.6 inches; the foot spout rotates 360 degrees.
And when it comes to actually building an outdoor shower, this shower system includes all the mounting hardware required, an instruction manual, and the connectors, which are available with an NPT ½ hole.
Get the Aolemi outdoor shower at Amazon.
Best Camping
Hike Crew Portable Propane Water Heater & Shower Pump
Product Specs
- Finish: Gray metal case, plastic shower head
- GPM: Variable
- Shower head: Handheld, 3-way adjustable
Pros
- Simple temperature and pressure control options integrated on the touch control panel
- Separate spigot for hot water is built into the unit for added user convenience
- Comes with a useful carry case; perfect for camping and outdoor trips
Cons
- Requires electrical supply to operate; portable generator may be required
- Small propane tank only; may not provide ample runtime
Our choice for the best portable shower for camping is this multifunction model from Hike Crew. The floor-standing unit runs off of a 1-pound gas tank and any convenient water supply where the pump unit can be submerged. There is a three-pattern shower head, plus a flip-out spigot to deliver hot water for other uses.
Push-button control makes operation of this camp shower easy, and accurate water temperature is provided. There are safety systems for overheating and low water levels. The only drawback here is that an electricity supply is required. AC or DC from a vehicle port can be used, and three different adapters are included. A hook for the shower head would be nice, but there isn’t one provided.
Get the Hike Crew outdoor shower at Amazon.
Best off-Grid
Camplux Portable Propane Tankless Water Heater
Product Specs
- Finish: White stainless steel casing, plastic shower
- GPM: 1.32
- Shower head: Handheld
Pros
- Easy-to-control hot water supply; hot and cold water knobs allow for ample adjustability
- Portable and hangable construction is suitable for use during camping, in an RV, or a cabin
- Battery ignition is easy to start and use; suitable for first timers
Cons
- No-frills outside shower head; may not provide ample water pressure
- No hook for the shower head; may require buying a separate mount
The Camplux outdoor shower is another model that can add a touch of luxury to almost any location. There is a substantial folding hook that makes it relatively easy to hang the unit, which weighs just 14 pounds. Two 5-foot hoses are included, one to attach to a standard 20-pound propane gas tank, and the other for the shower head. D-cell batteries provide ignition.
There are convenient front-mounted controls on this camp shower for temperature and water pressure, similar to those found on many household tankless water heaters. An oxygen depletion sensor makes this portable shower safe to use indoors as well as out, though it is not intended for permanent indoor installation. Minimum water pressure required is just 3 pounds per square inch (PSI). If still water is the only source, a Camplux 12V DC water pump could be used.
Get the Camplux outdoor shower at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Best Rechargeable
Kedsum Portable Camp Shower Pump
Product Specs
- Finish: Plastic
- GPM: 1
- Shower head: 1 handheld and 1 pressure spray
Pros
- Tremendous portability; suitable for campsite showers, hiking, RVs, and more
- Runs for 45 minutes or more from a single charge; only requires 90 to 120 minutes to charge
- Spare battery included for additional runtime or for multiple users
- Comes in multiple colorways to suit a variety of users’ preferences
Cons
- Modest flow relative to similar options; may not provide ample pressure
- Cold water only; may not be ideal for some users’ preferences
When showering outside, it’s tough to beat the Kedsum outdoor shower kit. It comprises a battery-powered pump, hose, and a choice of either shower head or pressure spray (though the latter is not particularly strong). There are also two different hooks for the shower head, and the whole Kedsum outdoor shower kit weighs under 2 pounds. Water can be provided via bucket or natural water source.
Power for this camp shower comes from a 2,200 mAh 3.7-volt battery that can run the pump for between 45 minutes and an hour. Adapters are provided to allow recharging via vehicle power outlets, portable powerpack, laptop, or mains. It can take up to 5 hours, depending on method, but a spare battery is included.
Get the Kedsum outdoor shower at Amazon.
Best Marine-Grade
Pulse Showerspas Wave Outdoor Shower System
Product Specs
- Finish: 316 stainless steel
- GPM: 2.5
- Shower head: 1 overhead, 1 pressure spray, and 1 foot rinse tap
Pros
- Built-in shower head, handheld sprayer, and foot sprayer for ample versatility
- Pressure balance valve and built-in diverter for ease of use and installation
- Stainless steel finish provides long-term durability and weather resistance
Cons
- Handheld unit is small; may not provide ample water pressure or coverage
Those who need a durable outdoor shower system with marine-grade construction might want to check out the Pulse Showerspas Wave 1-Spray shower faucet system. Made with an overhead shower head, handheld sprayer, foot rinse tap, and pressure balance valve, this system is made for those who live near the beach, a lake, or have a pool.
This stainless steel freestanding outdoor shower easily mounts to the ground and comes preplumbed to connect to the water line with ease. The built-in diverter is also ideal for quick adjustments. Another advantage of this system is the sleek and compact design, meaning this model will not take up a lot of space in any outdoor area while offering a pocket shower.
Get the Pulse Showerspas outdoor shower at The Home Depot or Wayfair.
Best Compact
Iron Hammer Portable Electric Camping Shower
Product Specs
- Finishes: Blue, pink, and orange
- GPM: 1.06
- Shower head: Handheld
Pros
- Comes with a shower head, hose, shower pump, charger, wall mount, 2 gaskets, a storage bag, and a user manual
- The unit has an on/off button and a mode switch; no manual pumping is required
- The reliable battery system includes a charge indicator light, low battery warning, and battery protection circuit
- Comes with an IPX7 Restriction of Hazardous Substances (ROHS) FCC certification for reliability and ease of use
Cons
- Plastic construction is not as durable as other options on the market
- No exact weight listed for this option
Camping offers an escape from the hustle and bustle, but it doesn’t mean an escape from a warm shower. This handheld shower from Iron Hammer comes with an IPX7 ROHS FCC certification and offers an affordable and fully portable shower for camping, RVing, or hiking. This pocket shower system is lightweight and includes a shower head, hose, shower pump, charger, wall mount, two gaskets, a storage bag, and a user manual. The pump has an on/off button and a mode switch.
It has a 4,800-milliampere-hour lithium battery that provides a 60-minute working time, a charger, a battery warning light, a charge indicator light, and a battery protection circuit. This pocket shower also comes in a variety of colorways to suit a given user’s preference. The only downside with this option is that it takes 3 to 4 hours to fully charge.
Get the Iron Hammer outdoor shower at Amazon.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing an Outdoor Shower
The number of choices for outdoor showers is enormous. Even portable showers offer a wide range of options. When it comes to permanent installations, there are almost no limits to what is possible. The following section looks at the key features of outdoor showers and will help narrow down the aspects that are important to you, helping ensure you find the best outdoor shower for your particular needs.
Types of Outdoor Showers
Outdoor showers can be broken down into three general categories: wall-mounted, freestanding, or portable. Each has pros and cons that ought to be explored before a decision is made. The intended location and use will have considerable impact based on a user’s current outdoor furniture or sauna. As mentioned above, it may be important to consider the practicalities of water supply and drainage.
Wall-Mounted
Although some wall-mounted outdoor showers make provision for external pipework, most are designed to attach to plumbing that comes through the supporting wall, much the same as showers that are fitted to indoor bathrooms.
Wall-mounted showers usually offer both hot and cold valves. There may also be a central mixer lever. These components generally also anchor the shower to the wall. An additional wall bracket is usually provided to support the pipe that runs up to the shower head.
While often affixed to the outside wall of a building, they can also be attached to purpose-built walls in other locations. In these circumstances it is usually preferred to run additional plumbing underground where chances of accidental damage are reduced, as is the possibility of freezing.
Freestanding
Some of the best portable outdoor shower units are freestanding, but the term more often applies to models that are permanent fixtures that don’t use a wall for support.
Freestanding outdoor showers come in a variety of styles. Many are tall structures with integrated controls and a fitted base. Others need to be bolted down. This will either mean fitting them to an existing hard-standing surface or pouring concrete. In either case, more work is involved, which could mean additional expense.
Freestanding outdoor showers needn’t be an expensive choice, though some do come with premium price tags. They can offer tremendous flexibility in terms of both design and location. While provision of hot water can be a challenge, solar-powered models are a solution that may be worth looking into.
Portable
The simplest of portable camping showers can be nothing more than a shower head attached to a standard garden hose—a low-cost, go-just-about-anywhere solution. However, the range available is surprisingly complex.
Those fitted with a pole and base or tripod legs can be placed anywhere in the yard for a quick rinse. They can be very convenient poolside. There are also battery-powered, portable showers for camping, RVing, and hiking that can run from a bucket of water. Gravity-fed versions can be mounted to RV or trailer roof racks. Others can be pressurized with a foot pump. If hot water is required, it can be provided via small gas-fired units. The best camping shower can be a long way from the basic cold water experience that many expect.
Material
Materials need to be chosen carefully. Many regions of the U.S. drop below freezing at some time during the year, but rain and sun can be just as damaging over time. For the outdoor shower unit itself, stainless steel is very popular. It looks great, is highly resistant to rust, and is comparatively easy to clean. Brass and copper are good alternatives.
Some showers develop a natural patina that some find very attractive, though some are nickel-plated or finished in other colors to match outdoor towel racks or hooks. Steel is cheaper, and usually chrome- or nickel-plated for protection from the elements, though these finishes can wear off eventually. PVC is perhaps least expensive, but it is vital that it contains UV inhibitors or it will quickly deteriorate in sunlight.
Pressure-treated lumber or other durable woods like cedar are popular choices for supports or underfoot, providing higher comfort than stone. However, the latter is much more durable. Tile is another option, as is concrete.
Design
Design choices are virtually limitless. Outdoor shower fixtures range from a basic shower head attached to a garden hose to models that incorporate all the features you would find in the best indoor showers.
There is also tremendous flexibility in terms of outdoor shower enclosure. A wide range of shower kits are available that include all necessary components and just need DIY assembly (though some might prefer to hire a contractor).
Those with a degree of design flair might want to borrow existing styles from their yard, whether traditional or contemporary. Privacy screening can be half- or full-height, or it can be nonexistent if space permits. When planning your outdoor shower, do bear in mind that some areas have restrictions. Be sure to check local building codes.
Water Pressure and Flow Rate
Household water pressure in the United States is generally somewhere between 40 and 60 PSI. While low pressure can be a factor, with showers the flow rate in GPM is the key figure.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandates that shower heads cannot exceed 2.5 GPM, but some states restrict this to 2.0 GPM. In California, Hawaii, and Washington, models cannot exceed 1.8 GPM. The regulations apply to outdoor as well as indoor showers. However, it is not necessary for the manufacturer to provide figures, and many do not.
Lower figures needn’t necessarily mean poor performance, though even the best portable shower for camping is likely to offer significantly less flow than those hooked up to household supply.
Temperature Control
Many outdoor showers run from a cold water supply, but there are also plenty that introduce hot water for steamy showers. This might be controlled from individual taps or from a central mixer. Many are just like bathroom showers; the challenge is in getting the supply to them. The farther water has to travel outdoors, the more the temperature will drop, so this will be an important element in planning.
Having an outdoor camping shower doesn’t mean going without hot water, either. Several models can be connected to standard propane gas tanks (either 20 pound or 1 pound), providing hot water in just about any location.
Shower Head
Most people have a preference when it comes to shower head type, and this can often be accommodated. However, portable camping showers are likely to be fairly basic. They might have rotary adjustment for spray pattern, but little else.
The best outdoor shower fixtures offer shower heads for all tastes. It is possible to have both rainfall and handheld heads on the same model. High-end outdoor showers may also be fitted with massage jets.
Note: The height of the shower head or the length of hose supplied may be an issue. For example, the hose on our top battery-powered model is under 6 feet. Wall-mounted models shouldn’t present a problem, but tall people in particular may want to check specifications on portable and freestanding models.
Accessories
All outdoor shower systems are made for convenience, but some options include unique accessories to make beachside, camping, or backyard showering even easier.
- Hoses often come with portable or wall-mounted outdoor showers and have rubber, plastic, or stainless steel constructions. These allow for added reach when rinsing pets, children, outdoor toys, and patio furniture. While most models come with a 5-foot hose, some options come with multiple hoses for different uses.
- Wall mounts/handheld faucet mounts keep faucets in place while showering to provide the feel of a real shower. Some overhead options can be permanently mounted to a wall or come with hanging hooks for temporary use. However, some options also include a wall mount just for the handheld faucet.
- Carrying case/storage bags are included with some portable camping showers to keep all the components together so they can be packed and transported.
FAQs
In the sections above we have provided details about the types of outdoor showers and their important features. We followed this up with real-world examples that illustrate the wide selection available. During our research we came across a number of questions of a practical nature, and we have answered those below.
Outdoor showers can be very affordable, and we have a budget-friendly solution here. Much depends on the materials used and the enclosure required. Prices can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to upward of $10,000.
Yes, though some precautions may need to be taken. Portable camping showers can be used outdoors at any time, as long as they are not left to freeze with water in them. Permanent shower installations cost some money and need frost-proof fixtures to prevent damage and should be drained down over winter.
In many cases a hot water pipe can be run from your existing household supply to an outside connection. If that’s not practical, there are solar-powered outdoor showers and those that can be hooked up to a propane gas tank for hot water supply.
No, though if it is going to be outdoors in all weather, stainless steel or brass (which is often nickel or chrome plated) is recommended. Plus, shower heads that have a longer reach, handheld units, and low-to-the-ground taps should be used for rinsing and washing.
Copper or PVC pipe can be used for cold water, depending on installation conditions. The pros and cons of each need to be investigated. Temporary outdoor showers can also use a standard garden hose. As for hot water, plumbers recommend using CPVC pipes.
At its most basic, all that’s required is a way to affix a shower head to a wall or post and fittings to attach the hose. A number of packages are available for this kind of installation.
It’s a question of finding the right hose adapter. Many shower head fittings are ½ inch in diameter, whereas garden hoses are typically ⅝ inch. However, it’s important to check. Garden hoses can be anywhere from ⅜ inch to ¾ inch. Adapters are widely available.
