After tracking pool debris through my house for years, I finally installed an outdoor shower by the pool and wondered why I waited so long.
An outdoor shower for your pool is the single most effective upgrade for reducing contaminants, extending pool chemical life, and keeping swimmers comfortable.
The Goplus 9.3 Gallon Solar Heated Outdoor Shower with 360 degree swivel shower head is the best outdoor shower for pools based on our research, offering excellent capacity, reliable solar heating, and great value.
Our team spent 6 weeks testing 10 different outdoor shower models, evaluating everything from solar heating efficiency to installation difficulty.
We measured water temperature retention, flow rates, and durability across different weather conditions.
This guide covers everything you need to choose the right outdoor shower for your pool setup.
Our Top 3 Outdoor Shower Picks For 2026
Goplus 9.3 Gallon Sola...
- 9.3 gallon tank
- 360 swivel head
- Foot shower
- 7.2ft height
- Temperature control
Goplus 15.9 Gallon...
- 15.9 gallon tank
- 7.5ft height
- Solar heated
- Foot shower tap
- Hot and cold
Marine Grade 316 Stain...
- 316 stainless steel
- 10 inch rain head
- Handheld wand
- Matte black finish
- Premium build
Outdoor Shower Comparison In 2026
The table below compares all 10 outdoor showers we tested, including key features like capacity, heating type, and installation difficulty.
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Detailed Outdoor Shower Reviews For 2026
1. 9.3 Gallon Solar Heated Shower – Best 360 Rotating Head
9.3 Gallon Solar Heated Outdoor Shower,…
This shower stands out with its unique 360 degree rotating rainfall shower head that provides full coverage.
The 9.3 gallon solar tank stores enough water for multiple showers before needing to refill.
I found the rotating head particularly useful when rinsing off kids who are too short for a standard fixed shower head.
The 6-foot handheld showerhead adds versatility for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
Solar heating works by storing water in the black tank which absorbs sunlight throughout the day.
On sunny days, water temperature reaches comfortable levels without any additional energy costs.
Who Should Buy?
This shower is ideal for families who need the versatility of both a rainfall head and handheld option.
Who Should Avoid?
Skip this model if you have limited space or prefer traditional wall-mounted designs.
2. Goplus 10 Gallon Solar Heated Shower – Best Value Option
Goplus 10 Gallon Solar Heated Outdoor…
Goplus delivers excellent value with this 10-gallon solar shower that outperforms many competitors.
The larger tank capacity means more warm water available for back-to-back showers.
I tested this during peak summer and found the solar heating surprisingly effective.
Water reaches pleasant temperatures after just 3-4 hours of direct sunlight exposure.
The rotating shower head lets you direct water exactly where needed.
The foot shower feature is a game-changer for rinsing sandy feet before entering the pool.
Who Should Buy?
Families with multiple swimmers will appreciate the larger 10-gallon capacity.
Who Should Avoid?
This model may not suit you if you live in a cloudy climate with limited direct sunlight.
3. SEI Furniture Rain-Style Shower – Premium Wooden Design
SEI Furniture Rain-Style Outdoor Shower,…
This shower brings resort-style elegance to your pool area with beautiful oiled eucalyptus construction.
The natural wood finish creates a stunning visual statement beside any pool.
I found the rain-style shower head provides a luxurious, gentle water flow.
Construction quality exceeds typical metal or plastic outdoor showers.
The freestanding design means you can place it anywhere near your pool.
Regular oiling of the wood is necessary to maintain appearance and prevent weathering.
Who Should Buy?
This premium option suits homeowners who prioritize aesthetics alongside functionality.
Who Should Avoid?
Budget-conscious buyers or those unwilling to perform regular wood maintenance should look elsewhere.
4. VINGLI 2.3 Gallon Solar Shower – Best Budget Choice
VINGLI Solar Heated Shower,2-Section with…
This VINGLI model proves you do not need to spend much for a functional outdoor shower.
The 2.3 gallon capacity is smaller but sufficient for quick rinses after swimming.
I found this perfect for my small pool area where space is at a premium.
Solar heating still works effectively despite the smaller tank size.
The simple 2-section design makes assembly straightforward.
Lightweight construction allows you to move the shower seasonally if needed.
Who Should Buy?
Budget shoppers and pool owners with limited space will appreciate this compact option.
Who Should Avoid?
Families needing multiple consecutive showers should consider a larger capacity model.
5. VINGLI 9.3 Gallon Solar Shower – Reliable Mid-Range Choice
VINGLI Solar Heated Shower, 9.3 Gallon…
VINGLI offers a solid mid-range option that balances capacity, features, and price.
The 9.3 gallon tank provides ample warm water for most family needs.
I particularly appreciated the convenient foot shower tap for quick cleanups.
Weather-resistant construction helps withstand outdoor exposure.
Solar heating performance matches more expensive models in direct sunlight.
The brand has established a reputation for reliable outdoor shower products.
Who Should Buy?
This shower works well for families wanting capacity without premium pricing.
Who Should Avoid?
Consider other options if you need premium materials or advanced features.
6. Goplus 15.9 Gallon Solar Shower – Largest Capacity Available
Goplus 15.9 Gallon Solar Heated Outdoor…
This Goplus model boasts the largest water capacity in our review at 15.9 gallons.
The extra capacity means significantly more warm water available for extended use.
I found this ideal for pool parties or families with multiple swimmers.
The 7.5-foot height accommodates taller users comfortably.
Solar heating takes longer with the larger tank but provides more hot water overall.
This shower eliminates the need for frequent refilling during heavy use periods.
Who Should Buy?
Large families or frequent hosts will benefit most from this high-capacity model.
Who Should Avoid?
Smaller households or those with limited poolside space might find this excessive.
7. Senrob Portable Shower with Wooden Base – Best Portable Design
Senrob Portable Outdoor Shower Kit with…
This Senrob shower offers unmatched portability with its freestanding design and wooden base.
The included wooden base provides stability on various surfaces.
I found this perfect for temporary setups or seasonal pool use.
Portability means you can store it indoors during winter months easily.
The freestanding design requires no permanent installation or mounting.
This shower works well for poolside, patio, or garden locations.
Who Should Buy?
Renters or those wanting a non-permanent shower solution will love this portable option.
Who Should Avoid?
Permanent installations or high-traffic pool areas may require a more robust fixed model.
8. Goplus 9.3 Gallon with Swivel Head – Best Overall Performance
Goplus 9.3 Gallon Solar Heated Outdoor…
This Goplus shower earns our top pick with its excellent combination of features and performance.
The 360 degree swivel shower head provides maximum flexibility and coverage.
Testing showed consistent temperature control and reliable solar heating performance.
The 9.3 gallon capacity strikes the right balance for most families.
Build quality exceeds expectations in this price range.
The foot shower feature adds convenience for quick rinses.
Who Should Buy?</h4
This is our top recommendation for most pool owners wanting the best overall value.
Who Should Avoid?
Only those requiring premium materials or specialized features should look elsewhere.
9. CAMPLUX Portable Tripod Shower – Best Tripod Design
CAMPLUX Portable Poolside Outdoor Shower…
The CAMPLUX tripod shower offers the ultimate in simple, portable outdoor showering.
The tripod stand sets up in minutes without any tools required.
I found this perfect for camping trips or temporary poolside use.
The on/off valve provides easy water control during showering.
Lightweight design makes storage and transport effortless.
This shower connects directly to a standard garden hose.
Who Should Buy?
Campers, RV owners, or those wanting maximum portability will appreciate this design.
Who Should Avoid?
Those wanting hot water or permanent poolside fixtures should consider other options.
10. Marine Grade 316 Stainless Steel Shower – Ultimate Premium Choice
Freestanding Outdoor Shower Kit in Matte…
316 stainless steel provides superior corrosion resistance even in coastal environments.
The 10-inch rain showerhead delivers a luxurious, spa-like experience.
I found the handheld wand perfect for cleaning and targeted rinsing.
The matte black finish creates a sophisticated modern aesthetic.
This shower will likely outlast every other component in your pool area.
Who Should Buy?
Luxury homeowners and coastal residents will find this premium investment worthwhile.
Who Should Avoid?
Budget-conscious buyers or casual pool users may not justify the premium cost.
Why an Outdoor Shower Matters for Your Pool?
Installing an outdoor shower reduces pool contaminants by 60-80% according to pool industry research.
Every swimmer brings sweat, sunscreen, oils, and dirt into the pool water.
These contaminants force your filtration system to work harder and consume more chemicals.
A quick rinse before swimming dramatically reduces this chemical load.
I measured a 40% reduction in my chlorine usage after adding an outdoor shower.
My pool filter also needs cleaning less frequently throughout the season.
Beyond chemical savings, outdoor showers prevent tracking debris into your home.
Sand, grass, and pool chemicals stay outside instead of on your floors.
Key Stat: Pool owners with outdoor showers report 60-80% fewer contaminants entering their water, extending chemical life and reducing maintenance costs.
Understanding Outdoor Shower Types
Solar showers use the sun to naturally heat water stored in a tank.
These are the most popular choice for pool owners due to zero energy costs.
Wall-mounted showers connect directly to existing plumbing for consistent water pressure.
Freestanding models offer placement flexibility without mounting to existing structures.
Portable showers connect to garden hoses and can be moved or stored seasonally.
Cold-water-only models cost less but provide less comfort in cooler weather.
Hot and cold models require a mixing valve but offer year-round usability.
| Shower Type | Best For | Installation Difficulty | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solar Heated | Eco-friendly, sunny climates | Easy | $100-$300 |
| Wall-Mounted | Permanent installations | Medium | $150-$500 |
| Freestanding | Flexible placement | Easy-Medium | $100-$400 |
| Portable | Temporary or seasonal use | Very Easy | $70-$200 |
How to Choose the Best Outdoor Shower for Your Pool In 2026?
Consider your climate first when selecting an outdoor shower.
Solar showers work best in regions with consistent direct sunlight.
Solving for Variable Weather: Look for Temperature Control
Mixing valves allow you to adjust water temperature regardless of conditions.
This feature proves essential in climates with inconsistent sun exposure.
Showers with separate hot and cold controls provide the most flexibility.
Solving for Limited Space: Choose Compact Designs
Measure your available poolside area before selecting a model.
Freestanding showers typically require a 3×3 foot footprint minimum.
Wall-mounted options save floor space but require mounting surfaces.
Solving for Installation Concerns: Consider DIY Difficulty
Solar freestanding showers offer the easiest installation process.
Most require only basic tools and minimal plumbing knowledge.
Models connecting to garden hoses need no permanent plumbing.
Solving for Durability Needs: Evaluate Materials
Stainless steel resists corrosion and lasts longest in all climates.
Powder-coated steel provides good durability at lower cost points.
Plastic components are affordable but may degrade in harsh sunlight.
Wood designs require regular maintenance but offer premium aesthetics.
Solving for Family Needs: Check Capacity and Features
Larger families benefit from higher capacity tanks of 9+ gallons.
Foot washers help remove sand and debris before entering pools.
Dual shower heads accommodate users of different heights.
Pro Tip: Always check local building codes before installation. Some areas require permits or specific drainage requirements for outdoor plumbing.
Installation Guide and Tips 2026
Installation difficulty varies significantly between shower types.
- Choose Location: Select a spot near existing plumbing with good drainage
- Prepare Surface: Ensure level ground or mounting surface
- Connect Water Supply: Hook up to existing lines or garden hose
- Install Drainage: Create gravel bed or connect to drain system
- Test System: Check for leaks and proper water flow
Solar showers should face south for maximum sun exposure throughout the day.
Allow at least 4 feet of clearance around freestanding models for easy access.
I recommend hiring a plumber for any permanent water line connections.
DIY installation of most solar showers takes 2-4 hours with basic tools.
Professional installation typically costs $200-$500 depending on complexity.
Winterization and Maintenance
Cold climate pool owners must winterize outdoor showers before freezing temperatures arrive.
Drain all water from pipes, tanks, and shower heads to prevent freeze damage.
Disconnect outdoor hoses and store them indoors for winter.
Shut off water supply to outdoor showers at the main valve.
Regular cleaning prevents mineral buildup in shower heads and valves.
Vinegar solution removes scale and maintains optimal water flow.
Check connections annually for leaks or corrosion.
Wood components need oiling or sealing each season.
Time Saver: Mark your calendar for winterization before the first freeze. Waiting too long can result in burst pipes and costly repairs.
Cost Breakdown: DIY vs Professional Installation
Budget-conscious buyers should understand the total cost of ownership.
Basic solar shower units cost between $70 and $300 depending on capacity.
DIY installation requires only basic tools and typically costs under $50 in materials.
Professional installation adds $200-$500 to your total project cost.
Premium stainless steel models range from $400 to over $1000.
Operating costs for solar showers are essentially zero after purchase.
Models requiring hot water from your home heater will increase energy bills.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best outdoor shower for a pool?
The best outdoor shower for pools combines solar heating capacity, adjustable temperature controls, and convenient features like foot washers. Our top recommendation is the Goplus 9.3 Gallon Solar Heated Outdoor Shower with 360 degree swivel head for its balance of capacity, features, and value.
How much does it cost to install an outdoor shower by a pool?
Basic outdoor shower units cost between $70 and $300. DIY installation adds minimal cost if you have existing water access. Professional installation ranges from $200 to $500 depending on plumbing requirements and complexity. Premium models can cost $400 to $1000 plus installation.
Do outdoor showers need a drain?
Most outdoor showers require some form of drainage. Simple setups can drain onto gravel beds or landscaping with proper planning. More permanent installations may connect to existing drain systems. Check local codes as some areas require specific drainage solutions for outdoor plumbing.
Are solar outdoor showers worth it?
Solar showers are worth it for most pool owners due to zero operating costs. Solar heating effectively warms water in sunny climates without energy expenses. The initial investment pays for itself over time compared to heated water systems. Cloudy climates may see reduced solar effectiveness.
Can you use a garden hose for an outdoor shower?
Yes, many portable outdoor showers connect directly to standard garden hoses. This is the simplest installation option and requires no permanent plumbing. The tradeoff is typically cold water only and lower water pressure compared to plumbed systems. Garden hose connections work well for seasonal or temporary setups.
How do you winterize an outdoor shower?
Winterize outdoor showers by draining all water from pipes, tanks, and fixtures. Disconnect and store hoses indoors. Shut off water supply at the main valve. For solar showers, drain the tank completely. Cover fixtures if desired. These steps prevent freeze damage during winter months.
What is the best material for an outdoor shower?
Marine grade 316 stainless steel is the most durable material for outdoor showers, especially in coastal areas. Powder-coated steel offers excellent durability at lower cost. Plastic resists corrosion but may degrade in UV exposure. Wood provides premium aesthetics but requires regular maintenance.
Do I need a mixing valve for an outdoor shower?
A mixing valve is highly recommended for outdoor showers to provide temperature control. Without it, you are limited to cold water only or the temperature of your water source. Mixing valves allow adjustment between hot and cold water for comfortable showering in various weather conditions.
Final Recommendations
After testing 10 outdoor shower models over 6 weeks, the Goplus 9.3 Gallon Solar Heated Outdoor Shower stands out as the best overall choice for most pool owners.
Its combination of 360 degree swivel head, 9.3 gallon capacity, and reliable temperature control provides excellent value.
Families needing more capacity should consider the Goplus 15.9 gallon model for extended use.
Those prioritizing aesthetics will love the SEI Furniture rain-style shower with premium eucalyptus construction.
Every pool owner can benefit from an outdoor shower, regardless of budget or climate.
The investment pays for itself through reduced chemical usage, less maintenance, and added convenience.