How to Choose the Right Shower Tray for your Bathroom

When planning a bathroom upgrade, the shower tray is often overlooked, but it's one of the most important features for both functionality and style. It forms the base of your shower enclosure, helps contain water effectively, and supports the overall aesthetic of your space. Whether you're replacing a damaged tray or renovating your entire bathroom, choosing the right shower tray is essential.

Here’s everything you need to know to make the best choice for your space, your style, and your needs.

Understand the Purpose of a Shower Tray

A shower tray collects and channels water to the drain, keeping your bathroom floor dry and safe. It’s more than just a platform—it plays a key role in preventing leaks and water damage. Proper installation is critical. If fitted incorrectly, you risk instability, cracks, or persistent leaks, so it's always wise to consult a professional installer.

Trays also offer an advantage over tiled shower floors. They're usually more cost-effective, quicker to install, and easier to maintain thanks to their smooth, grout-free surface.

Choose the Right Size and Shape

The first step is understanding what size will work best in your bathroom. Measure carefully and ensure the tray won’t interfere with other fittings like your toilet or vanity. If you're replacing an existing tray, sticking to the same size makes installation easier. However, if you're redesigning the layout, consider how the tray will work with the overall space.

Square and rectangular trays are ideal for larger enclosures and are very versatile in terms of placement. Quadrant trays, with their curved front, fit neatly into corners, saving valuable floor space in smaller bathrooms. For something a little different, there are D-shaped or pentagon trays available, perfect for modern and bespoke designs.

Consider Tray Height and Accessibility

Shower trays come in different height options to suit both style and accessibility needs. Low-profile trays sit close to the floor and create a sleek, minimalist look. They’re great for contemporary bathrooms and easy to step into, although they do require subfloor plumbing. If this isn’t an option, raised or 'easy plumb' trays are a practical alternative, offering easy access to pipework without compromising on appearance.

Wet room trays and formers allow for level access and are ideal for creating an accessible shower space. These are especially helpful in homes with mobility considerations or for achieving a spa-like design.

Choose a Suitable Material

The material of your shower tray will affect its durability, maintenance, and style. Acrylic is lightweight and affordable but may scratch easily. Acrylic-capped stone resin trays offer a more durable surface with a glossy finish that’s still easy to install.

For maximum strength and longevity, natural or gel-coated stone resin trays are excellent choices. They're heavier and more robust, ideal for high-traffic bathrooms or long-term use.

Think About Safety and Style

A non-slip surface is a must, particularly in family bathrooms or for older users. Many modern trays come with textured coatings to reduce the risk of slipping without compromising on style.

In terms of design, most trays come in classic white, but coloured options such as black, grey, or beige are increasingly popular in contemporary spaces. Matching your tray with your tiles or shower enclosure can help create a unified, high-end look.

Final Considerations

You may also want to consider whether to choose a tray with upstands—small raised edges that help form a watertight seal between the tray and wall tiles. They’re especially useful in preventing leaks over time and can extend the lifespan of your shower enclosure.

If your bathroom layout presents awkward angles or obstacles, some trays can be cut to size for a tailored fit. This flexibility can open up more design options and help you maximise your space.

In Summary

Selecting the right shower tray is about more than just shape and size. It’s a combination of practical requirements, safety considerations, and design preferences. Whether you want a low-profile tray for a streamlined look, or a raised option for easier installation, there’s a solution to suit every bathroom. Take the time to explore your options and choose a tray that fits your lifestyle as well as your space.