No More Tubs: The Shower Trend You'll See In More And More Bathrooms In 2026

Attention homeowners: who's ready to ditch those old bathtubs? According to the 2026 Bath Trends Report from the National Kitchen and Bath Association, the majority of us are more interested in showers than bathtubs. But not just any run-of-the-mill stand-up shower. People are opting for extra-large showers that have ample space for more luxury accessories, like steam options, built-in seating, and aromatherapy. For today's homeowners, luxury is the name of the game when it comes to upgrading their bathrooms. We're talking showers found in spa-inspired bathrooms that will make you feel like you're on a retreat.

While bathtubs can offer a spa-like feel and be a luxury item in their own right, another reason homeowners are going the way of the shower is to accommodate a more aging-in-place design. We want to stay in our homes longer and as we age, and there are certain accommodations that need to be made. But we don't want to feel like we're remodeling our bathrooms into a hospital facility. We want aging in place, but make it luxury. Think custom grab bars, curbless entry with a sleek design, and beautiful built-in benches. While this used to be an age-specific design, homeowners now see it working to serve everyone, with a more accessible feel.

If you take one look at your outdated bathroom and are ready to change it all, you might want to consider a luxury shower remodel. This really is the next big trend of 2026 that will make your bathroom feel like a spa-inspired oasis. A popular choice for a custom look and feel is the recessed shower niche. This allows the shower to be built into your specific space for a unique design. Opting for things like a curbless entry, steam shower functions, and a striking built-in bench adds sophisticated elements that also lend themselves to aging in style. And don't worry if you think your bathroom is too small; there are some brilliant walk-in shower ideas for small bathrooms to maximize space.

If you can't quite swing a full bathroom remodel, consider adding a few luxury accessories to elevate your existing shower. Installing a built-in bench seat or decorative grab bars not only enhances the look of the shower, but also offers peace of mind for the long-term functionality of the shower. Swapping out the shower head is an easy way to upgrade your shower. Going with a rainfall shower head definitely ups the spa-like feel, or opting for a multi-function shower head gives you more control over how you want your showering experience to feel from day to day. Mood lighting and aromatherapy can boost the luxury factor of your showering experience, too.