Best Shower Pans of 2026

Howard Chester Avatar
Howard Chester
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2026

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Shower pans are an essential component of any shower installation. These waterproof trays are designed to catch and drain water, preventing leaks and water damage to bathroom floors. Shower pans come in a variety of materials, including acrylic, fiberglass, and tile-ready options. Some shower pans have built-in slopes to ensure proper drainage, while others are customizable to fit any space. Whether you are remodeling your bathroom or building a new home, a high-quality shower pan is a must-have for a functional and beautiful shower.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Oatey PVC Shower Pan Liner Kit Cover #TOP 1
Oatey PVC Shower Pan Liner Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Oatey PVC Shower Pan Liner Cover #TOP 2
Oatey PVC Shower Pan Liner
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Schluter Kerdi Prefabricated Sloped Shower Tray KST965/1525S Cover #TOP 3
Schluter Kerdi Prefabricated Sloped Shower Tray KST965/1525S
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Shower Pans

Oatey PVC Shower Pan Liner Kit

41620
Gray
5' x 6'
Oatey PVC Shower Pan Liner Kit Cover
Oatey PVC Shower Pan Liner Kit Gray 5' x 6'

The Oatey PVC Shower Pan Liner Kit is a ready-to-use waterproofing membrane that comes with a 5' x 6' PVC Shower Pan Liner Sheet and two PVC Corner Dams. It is made of durable, abrasion-resistant 40 mil thick flexible PVC for long-lasting use and is marked in 6 in. increments for ease of measuring. Customers have praised its easy installation, quality, and helpful instructions. However, some customers have noted that the liner can arrive with creases, and that the corner dams are not always included.

What We Like
Easy installation
High quality
Helpful instructions
#TOP 2

Oatey PVC Shower Pan Liner

41645
Gray
6' x 10'
Oatey PVC Shower Pan Liner Cover
Oatey PVC Shower Pan Liner Gray 6' x 10'

The Oatey PVC Shower Pan Liner is a waterproofing membrane that is perfect for concealed waterproofing applications, such as tile showers. The liner is made of durable, abrasion-resistant 40 mil thick flexible PVC, which ensures long-lasting use. Additionally, the product is marked in 6-inch increments for ease of measuring and boasts superior cold weather characteristics.

What We Like
Durable and abrasion-resistant
Easy to measure with increments marked in 6 inches
Superior cold weather characteristics
#TOP 3

Schluter Kerdi Prefabricated Sloped Shower Tray KST965/1525S

KST965_1525S
Schluter Kerdi Prefabricated Sloped Shower Tray KST965/1525S Cover
Schluter Kerdi Prefabricated Sloped Shower Tray - Waterproof, Ready to Tile - Lightweight Polystyrene, 38" Length, 60" Width, Off-Center Outlet Position - KST965/1525S

The Schluter Kerdi Shower Tray offers a built-in waterproof layer that protects your shower from leaks, so you don't have to deal with messy mortar beds. It is ready for tile installation right away, giving you a solid base that cuts down on preparation time and speeds up your project. You can choose from twelve different sizes and styles, including options with off-center drains, which means it fits well whether you're replacing an old shower or building a new one. Made from lightweight expanded polystyrene, this tray is easy to handle and strong enough to last through years of use in your custom shower space.

What We Like
Built-in waterproofing
Ready for tiling
Multiple size options
Lightweight material

VEVOR 38"x60" Shower Curb Kit

Shower Curb Kit
Gray
VEVOR 38"x60" Shower Curb Kit Cover
VEVOR Shower Curb Kit, 38"x60" Watertight Shower Curb Overlay with 4" PVC Central Bonding Flange, 4" Stainless Steel Grate, 2 Cuttable Shower Curb and Trowel, Shower Pan Slope Sticks Fit for Bathroom

The VEVOR Shower Curb Kit is designed to create a watertight shower space in your bathroom. The premium shower tray, made from high-pressure foam, features a central drainage hole for efficient water flow, ensuring you won't have to deal with pooling water. With the included durable PVC flange and automatic seal grate, you can expect smooth drainage without blockages. Additionally, the kit comes with a water-impermeable membrane that is easy to apply, complete with pre-cut corners for quick installation. You'll also receive a sturdy stainless steel trowel, making the application of mortar simple and effective.

What We Like
Effective water drainage
Water-impermeable membrane included
Easy installation process
Durable stainless steel trowel
#TOP 5

DreamLine Shower Base DLT-1130602

DLT-1130602
White
DreamLine Shower Base DLT-1130602 Cover
DreamLine SlimLine 30 in. D x 60 in. W x 2 3/4 in. H Right Drain Single Threshold Shower Base in White, DLT-1130602

The DreamLine White Shower Base DLT-1130602 is a 30x60-inch single threshold shower base designed for alcove installation. With a slip-resistant surface, it ensures safety during use. The high gloss acrylic material not only makes maintenance easy but also provides lasting beauty to your bathroom. The right drain location, as shown in the technical drawing, offers convenience during installation by allowing direct attachment to studs. This premium shower base by DreamLine is a practical and stylish choice for your bathroom upgrade.

What We Like
Slip-resistant surface
Easy maintenance
Lasting beauty
#TOP 6

Schluter Kerdi Center Outlet Shower Tray KST1220/1830

KST1220_1830_B
Clear
Schluter Kerdi Center Outlet Shower Tray KST1220/1830 Cover
Schluter Systems KST1220/1830 Kerdi Center Outlet Shower Tray 48"x72"

The Schluter Kerdi Shower Tray offers a smart solution for your bathroom with its built-in slope, which helps water drain efficiently, preventing pooling. It comes in a spacious 48 by 72-inch size, giving you plenty of room for a comfortable shower experience. The tray has a 1-1/4 inch high edge around the perimeter, which helps contain water and keeps your bathroom floor dry. With a center drain design, water flows directly down the middle, making cleanup easier. Plus, you won’t need to use a mortar bed, simplifying installation and saving you time and effort.

What We Like
Integrated waterproofing
Large dimensions
Raised perimeter edge
Center drain placement
No mortar bed needed
#TOP 7

Schluter KERDI-Board-SN Shower Niche 12x28

KB12SN305711AF
No Color
Schluter KERDI-Board-SN Shower Niche 12x28 Cover
Schluter KERDI-Board-SN Shower Niche - Waterproof and Ready-to-Tile, Easy Installation - 12" x 28" - KB12SN305711AF

The Schluter Shower Niche is designed to make your shower space both practical and durable. It offers a waterproof surface that protects your shower walls from moisture damage, giving you peace of mind. With its ready-to-tile design, you can easily apply tiles directly onto the niche, speeding up your installation and saving effort. The niche is made from a lightweight yet strong material, making it easy to handle while ensuring it holds up well in wet environments. Its 12" by 28" size fits various shower setups, giving you flexible storage options for your personal items.

What We Like
Waterproof surface
Ready-to-tile design
Lightweight and sturdy
Universal size fit
#TOP 8

AxPower Upgraded 3" Shower Threshold Water Dam 67 Inch

White-3" High
AxPower Upgraded 3" Shower Threshold Water Dam 67 Inch Cover
(Upgraded)3” High Shower Threshold Water Dam 67 Inch Collapsible Shower Barrier Water Stopper Shower Water Guard Dry and Wet Separation for Bathroom Kitchen and More(5.6ft)

The AxPower 3" Shower Water Dam is designed to keep your shower area dry and safe by effectively blocking water from spilling out. Its upgraded 3-inch height offers better protection compared to shorter dams, helping you avoid water messes on your bathroom floor. The triangular base design adds extra stability, ensuring the dam stays firmly in place for reliable wet and dry separation. Installation is quick and easy—you just clean the surface, warm the adhesive with a hair dryer, and stick it down. Plus, the dam is made from soft, eco-friendly silicone that's durable and flexible, so you can trim it to fit your space perfectly and enjoy hassle-free cleaning with just a damp cloth.

What We Like
3-inch height for better water containment
Triangular base for extra stability
Easy peel-and-stick installation
Durable, flexible eco-friendly silicone
Simple cleaning with a wet towel
#TOP 9

Hippo Dam 65" Transparent Shower Water Barrier

Small 65 Transparent
Transparent
65 In
Hippo Dam 65" Transparent Shower Water Barrier Cover
Shower Threshold Water Dam Barrier 65" - Transparent Collapsible Shower Water Blocker - Guard for Walk in Shower - Water Guard Stopper for Floor - Shower Door Water Blocker by Hippo Dam

The Hippo Dam Shower Barrier is designed to keep your bathroom floor dry by stopping water from leaking outside your shower. Measuring 65 inches long, it offers a sturdy yet flexible shield that fits well in walk-in showers. Installation is simple with its improved self-adhesive backing—just peel and stick for a secure hold, and you can add silicone for extra protection if you want. Made from soft, durable rubber, this water guard is built to last and adapt to different bathroom layouts. With the Hippo Dam Shower Barrier, you get an easy-to-use, reliable way to prevent water damage and keep your shower area neat and safe.

What We Like
Durable rubber construction
Easy adhesive installation
Flexible and sturdy design
Prevents water leaks effectively

Fine Fixtures Shower Base 30" x 30"

SBA3030W-F
White
Fine Fixtures Shower Base 30" x 30" Cover
Fine Fixtures Single Threshold Acrylic Shower Base - Non-Slip Textured Surface, Durable Shower Floor Pan 30" x 30" for Easy Installation, White Color for Modern Bathrooms

The Fine Fixtures Shower Pan is a durable acrylic shower base with a non-slip textured surface in white. Crafted to be leak-proof, it protects your floors and walls from water damage. The anti-slip design ensures a safe shower experience, while the reinforced fiberglass acrylic construction resists scratches and stains. Perfect for new construction or remodel projects, this shower base offers a minimal slope for easy drainage and comes in various sizes to fit your needs.

What We Like
Leak-Proof Acrylic
Non-Slip Textured Surface
Durable Fiberglass Acrylic
Buying Guide Image

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Shower Pans

Material

The material of the shower pan is an important factor to consider. Common options include acrylic, fiberglass, tile, and stone. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of durability, ease of installation, and maintenance. Consider your preferences and budget when selecting the right material for your shower pan.

Size and Shape

Shower pans come in various sizes and shapes to fit different shower spaces. Measure your shower area carefully to ensure the pan you choose will fit properly. Additionally, consider the shape of the shower pan – whether it's square, rectangular, or custom-shaped – based on your bathroom layout and design.

Drain Location

The location of the drain is crucial for proper water drainage in the shower. Ensure that the shower pan you choose has a drain hole in the correct position for your plumbing setup. Some shower pans offer multiple drain options, allowing for greater flexibility during installation.

Installation Method

Consider the installation method of the shower pan. Some pans are designed for easy installation with a direct-to-stud or mortar base, while others may require professional assistance or additional materials. Choose a shower pan that suits your DIY abilities and budget.

Durability and Maintenance

Look for a shower pan that is durable and resistant to cracks, leaks, and stains. Consider the ease of cleaning and maintenance as well. Some materials are more prone to damage or require special care, so choose a shower pan that fits your lifestyle and maintenance preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do plumbers put in shower pans?

Yes, plumbers can replace shower pans, shower liners, drains, and drain traps. However, if you want to tile over the shower pan, you may need to hire a tiler after the plumber installs the pan. Alternatively, you can hire a shower installer who can handle the entire job from start to finish.

2. How much does it cost to have a shower pan installed?

The cost of shower pan installation can vary. On average, it can cost around $1,600, with prices ranging from $530 for standard shower pan inserts to as high as $2,700 for custom installation jobs. The total cost may also increase if you choose expensive tile, natural stone, or a fully custom-made concrete shower pan.

3. Can you install a shower pan over tile?

Yes, it is possible to install a shower pan over tile. In fact, it is a common practice to match tile walls with a fiberglass or acrylic shower pan. This can save money on tile work and provide the benefits of both tile's beauty and the practicality of acrylic or fiberglass.

4. What is the best material to put under a shower pan?

When selecting a material to put under a shower pan, it is important to choose one that is durable, slip-resistant, and load-bearing. Popular options include acrylic, fiberglass, stone, heavy metals, and tile. Each material has its own benefits and price points, so consider your specific needs and preferences.

5. Do you need to put anything under a shower pan?

Most shower pans require a mortar base underneath them. This is because preformed shower pans are designed to direct water into the drainpipe, and a mortar base must be perfectly level for the slope to work correctly. It is best to check the manufacturer's instructions to ensure proper installation.

6. What holds a shower pan in place?

To secure a shower pan in place, it may have feet with clips that hold it to the studs. Alternatively, the manufacturer's instructions may recommend drilling the flange and screwing it to the studs. It is important to ensure that the pan is level and properly attached to the flanges to hold it in place.

7. Is it cheaper to use a shower pan or tile?

The choice between a shower pan and tile flooring may depend on price and aesthetic preferences. While a shower pan is generally easier to install and less expensive, it may be less customizable compared to tile. Consider your budget and desired look for your bathroom when making this decision.

8. What kind of shower pan goes under tile?

For tile, you have the option of using a tileable shower base system. These are floor pans that are designed to be tiled over. They are usually made of fiberglass and/or composite plastic materials and may come with chrome drains. These shower pans are designed to make the drain connection with plumbing easy.

Editor's Notes

During our shower pans research, we found 24 shower pans products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 30,905 customer reviews through our big data system to write the shower pans list. We found that most customers choose shower pans with an average price of $79.46.

The shower pans are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of shower pans, including Oatey, Schluter, VEVOR, DreamLine, AxPower. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Howard Chester Avatar

Howard Chester is an architect from New York who holds a master's degree in architectural design, his passions for interior design and home improvement contribute to his extensive knowledge of all things furniture and home goods. Howard Chester Specializes in various architectural and interior design projects. He often publishes articles related to decoration on key websites and interior design magazines.