Shelving Options for Tiled Showers
- If you are an adventurous do-it-yourselfer, consider constructing a recessed tile niche. Custom recessed shower niches are rectangular and hold everything from shampoo bottles and body wash to sponges and bath products. Verify or make framing space to allow for an 8- to 12-inch wide by 16-inch tall niche before working on the shower substrate. Add a small tile shelf at the bottom of the niche for soap, razors and small shower products.
- Consider using a manufactured plastic shampoo and soap niche. Fabricated tile shower niches are available in rectangular or square dimensions. Install the recessed niche while constructing the shower substrate (floated mortar or cement board walls). Seal the plastic shampoo niche onto and inside the substrate with a silicone sealant. Follow the manufacturer's fabricated niche installation directions.
- Building-product companies produce a variety of ceramic shelves. Some are small, meant to hold a bar of soap, thus called soap dishes. Tile installers install soap dishes while installing the shower tile; a small square cutout is required for a proper fit. Other ceramic shelving -- called shampoo shelves -- support shampoo bottles and additional shower items. Manufacturers produce shampoo shelves in a variety of sizes and dimensions; this product is installed in shower corners.
- Thoroughly seal tile niches with a penetrating tile sealer. Apply sealer periodically. Inhibit mildew growth by cleaning regularly. Use a tile-safe pH-neutral cleaner.