Choosing the right shower tray for your bathroom might seem straightforward at first, but with so many shower tray types, sizes and materials available, it's easy to pick one that doesn't quite suit your space or needs. Ultimately, the shower tray you choose plays a key role in both the look and functionality of your setup.
From rectangular and square shower trays to walk-in and low profile designs, each option is suited to different layouts and preferences. On top of that, selecting the correct shower tray size is essential to ensure a comfortable showering experience while making the most of your available space.
In this guide, we'll break down shower trays by types, standard sizes and materials, along with practical tips to help you choose the best shower tray for you.
Types of Shower Trays
Choosing the right shower tray starts with understanding the different types available. From space-saving designs to low profile options, each type is suited to specific bathroom layouts and needs. Below, we break down the most popular shower tray types to help you find the best fit fit for your space.
Rectangular Shower Trays
Rectangular shower trays are one of the most popular and versatile choices. Available in larger sizes such as 1200 x 800mm, 1400 x 900mm and 1700 x 700mm, they offer plenty of space for comfortable showering. These trays are ideal for walk-in enclosures and modern bathrooms where a more spacious layout is preferred.
Square Shower Trays
Square shower trays are a compact and practical solution, especially for en-suites and smaller bathrooms. Common sizes include 700 x 700mm, 800 x 800mm and 900 x 900mm. They fit neatly into corners and are typically paired with sliding or pivot shower doors to maximise space efficiency.
Quadrant Shower Trays
Quadrant shower trays feature a curved front and are designed to fit into the corner of a room. This makes them one of the best space-saving shower tray options for compact bathrooms. Common sizes include 800 x 800mm and 900 x 900mm, and they are usually paired with quadrant shower enclosures for a smooth, modern look.
Shower Tray Materials Explained
The material of your shower tray plays a key role in its durability, appearance, weight and ease of installation. Choosing the right material can also impact comfort, safety and long-term maintenance. Below are the most common shower tray materials and their key benefits.
Acrylic Shower Trays
Acrylic shower trays are one of the most popular and affordable options. They are made from lightweight acrylic sheets, often reinforced with a fibreglass backing for extra strength.
Key benefits:
- Lightweight and easy to install
- Budget-friendly option
- Warm to the touch compared to stone
- Available in a wide range of shapes and sizes.
Acrylic trays are ideal for straightforward installations and are commonly used in standard bathrooms and en-suites. However, they can be less rigid than stone resin unless properly supported.
Stone Resin Shower Trays
Stone resin shower trays are made from a mixture of natural stone and resin, creating a solid, durable base with a premium feel. They are one of the most popular choices for modern bathrooms.
Key benefits:
- Extremely strong and durable
- Solid, high-quality feel underfoot
- Excellent resistance to impact and wear
- Often available in low profile (slimline) designs
Stone resin trays are heavier than acrylic, so may require more effort to install, but they offer excellent long-term performance and stability.
Slate Effect Shower Trays
Slate effect shower trays are designed to replicate the natural look and texture of real slate, offering a stylish, contemporary finish without the drawbacks of natural stone.
Key benefits:
- Natural stone appearance with textured surfaces
- Modern, premium aesthetic
- Often made from stone resin for durability
- Available in popular finishes like black, grey and anthracite
- Frequently includes anti-slip surface texture.
Slate effect trays are ideal for modern bathrooms, especially where a designer, spa-style look is desired. They combine the durability of stone resin with a more architectural, textured finish.
Anti-Slip Shower Trays
Anti-slip shower trays are not a separate material but a safety feature that can be applied to acrylic, stone resin and slate effect shower trays. They feature a textured surface to improve grip when wet.
Key benefits:
- Reduces risk of slipping
- Ideal for family or accessible bathrooms
- Common in slate effect and walk-in trays
- Maintains stylish appearance while improving safety
Low Profile vs Raised Shower Trays
When choosing a shower tray, one of the most important decisions is whether to go for a low profile (slimline) shower tray or a raised shower tray. The main difference comes down to height, installation method and the overall look you want to achieve in your bathroom.
Low Profile (Slimline Shower Trays)
Low profile shower trays are designed to sit very close to the floor, creating a modern and almost flush finish. Low profile trays are ideal for contemporary bathrooms where style and accessibility are a priority. These are often paired with stone resin or slate effect finishes for a premium finish.
Typical height:
- Usually 25mm to 40mm high
- Ultra-slim options can be as low as 20-30mm
Key benefits:
- Modern, minimalist appearance
- Easier step-in access (great for accessibility)
- Works well with walk-in and wet room designs
- Creates a seamless, high-end bathroom look
Raised Shower Trays
Raised shower trays are installed slightly above floor level, usually with the help of a riser kit or plinth. This creates space underneath the tray for plumbing and waste pipework. Raised trays are a practical choice for older properties or bathrooms where it's not possible to run waste pipes below the floor.
Typical height:
- Usually 45mm to 150mm+ high (depending on design and installation)
Key benefits:
- Easier to install where pipework is above floor level
- Helps conceal plumbing without altering flooring
- Often simple for retrofit installations
- Can improve drainage flow in certain setups
How to Choose the Right Shower Tray for Your Bathroom
Step 1: Measure Your Bathroom Space Accurately
Start by measuring the exact area where your shower tray will sit. Take into account:
- Wall-to-wall width and depth
- Tile thickness or wall finishes
- Position of doors, toilets or sinks
- Space needed for shower doors or screens
Step 2: Choose the Right Shape for Your Layout
The right shape will help you maximise space and improve flow in your bathroom.
-
Square shower trays - best for compact bathrooms and en-suites
- Rectangular shower trays - ideal for larger, more spacious showers
- Quadrant shower trays - perfect for saving space in corners
Step 3: Decide Between Low Profile or Raised
Your installation setup will influence this choice:
- Low profile shower trays (25-40mm) - modern and easier to step into
- Raised shower trays (45mm+) - better for hiding pipework and easier retrofitting
If you want a contemporary look, low profile is usually the preferred option. If plumbing is a challenge, a raised tray may be more practical.
Step 4: Select the Best Material for Your Needs
Material affects both performance and appearance:
- Acrylic - lightweight and budget friendly
- Stone resin - strong, durable and premium feel
- Slate effect - stylish, textured finish for modern bathrooms
-
Anti-slip - to improve grip when wet
Step 5: Think About Your Shower Enclosure
Your shower tray must match your enclosure type:
- Sliding doors
- Pivot doors
- Bi-fold doors
-
Fixed glass screens (walk-in setups)
Always check compatibility to ensure a proper fit and watertight seal.
Common Shower Tray Buying Mistakes to Avoid
1. Forgetting to Buy the Correct Waste
One of the most common mistakes is forgetting to purchase the shower waste (drain kit) at the same time as the tray. Not all shower trays come with a waste included, and they are not universal. You need to check:
- Waste outlet size (commonly 90mm high-flow wastes)
- Position of the outlet (centre, offset, corner etc.)
- Compatibility with your chosen tray
2. Ignoring Plumbing and Waste Position
Your shower tray must align with your existing or planned waste pipe position. If it doesn't:
- Installation becomes more complex
- You may need to raise the tray
- Extra plumbing work may be required
3. Overlooking Installation Requirements
Different trays have different installation needs:
- Acrylic trays often need full support underneath
- Stone resin trays are heavier and may require careful lifting or bedding in
- Some trays require a riser kit or legs
Forgetting these extras can delay installation or affect tray stability.
4. Not considering Additional Essentials
A shower tray is only one part of the setup. You may also need:
- Shower waste kit (essential for drainage)
- Riser kit or support frame (for raised installations)
- Sealant and waterproofing materials
- Shower enclosure or glass screen
- Pipework adjustments or connectors
These extras should be factored into your total budget before buying.
Final Tip
The best shower tray is the one that balances size, shape, material and installation needs while fitting your bathroom. Taking time to measure properly and match all these factors will ensure a long-lasting, practical and stylish result. If you're still unsure on which shower tray is best for you, feel free to contact our team for expert advice.
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