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3 Awesome DIY Shower Ideas That Will Fit in Tight Spaces

This post was updated on March 15th, 2024

A few years back (fueled in part by a “reality TV” DIY craze that began sweeping the nation) many people found new interest in starting their own home renovations, and they didn’t just stop at paint or a new front door.

It stands to reason that a movement that large would overflow into other living communities as well, and the Internet is just bursting with great stories about everyday people who are creating their own RVs and mobile vacation homes.

One tricky spot to deal with is the bathroom. Many DIY RVers skip over it, in favor of camping near facilities, but if you want a truly self-sufficient “mini home” a bath or shower is a must have. Sure, you could go down and get a fiberglass sleeve that will fit nicely (and won’t break the bank) or you could try one of these great options!

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1. Corrugated metal shower

Fiberglass shower pans make the most sense at floor level. They’re easy to install and lightweight. They also endure the hardships of life on the road quite well. But, what about the walls? If you’d like to do something unique, inexpensive, easy to maintain, and great looking, consider a corrugated metal shower stall!

Simple corrugated wall with shower head.

corrugated shower wall
CottageDreamers
  • It can be attached to almost any sub frame.
  • It is one of the cheapest waterproof materials available.
  • Metal roofs last for as long as fifty years, virtually maintenance free!

A corrugated metal shower in a Tumbleweed Tiny House RV.

tumbleweed metal shower
TumbleweedHouses

2. Horse trough shower pan

While not deep enough to soak in, a galvanized trough is large enough to easily catch shower water or serve as a nice clean up sink for washing things. Not only will they last virtually forever, they have a rustic country charm that cannot be denied.

A simple small trough shower.

small trough shower
Littleyellowdoor
  • Inexpensive
  • Easy to install, just cut the drain into the bottom.
  • Useful for more than just showers!

An industrial-style trough shower.

pallet mounted trough shower
Bohosweet

3. Wooden barrel shower

When you think of ways to hold water, wood may not be the first thing that comes to mind. For centuries though, wooden barrels were the standard for moving fresh water when it was hard to get to. A cutdown whiskey barrel is large enough to make a roomy shower, while not taking up too much space.

Rustic barrel shower with a touch of elegance.

metal shower with lace curtain
LatriceDesigns
  • Rustic good looks and easy to install.
  • Seal the barrel and apply maintenance coats every so often.
  • Mount a lip around the top of the barrel for soap, shampoo, and other bath necessities.

Another barrel shower design.

tumbleweed barrel shower
TumbleweedHouses

However you go about it, there are a lot of ways to stay clean in your RV. What about yours? What kind of shower did you install in your DIY RV?

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