The Best Tub-to-Shower Conversion Kits of 2024 to Update the Bathroom
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Out with the old and in with the new—replace an old, dingy bathtub with a modern shower using one of the best shower kits.
Tub-to-shower conversion kits can make a bathroom renovation easier and more affordable, simplifying switching out a tub for a new shower. There are several reasons to get rid of an old tub and install a shower instead. Showers can free up bathroom space and they tend to use less water, so they’re more energy efficient.
They’re safer to use since there’s no tall edge or climbing in and out, which means they’re more suitable for those with mobility concerns. Converting a tub into a walk-in shower is a big project, but it’s well worth it for many households.
To convert a tub into a shower, there are a few options ranging from add-ons to an existing tub, to luxurious walk-in showers and shower stalls. Replacing a tub with a shower kit is one of the most cost-effective and straightforward ways to replace a tub with a shower.
We chose the DreamLine Shower Base and Backwall Kit as our best overall pick because of its modern design, versatile installation options, and durable acrylic and ABS plastic construction. However, all our selected products were vetted for effectiveness and reliability.
We’ve rounded up some more of the best tub-to-shower conversion kits ahead for tackling this major bathroom project.
- BEST OVERALL: DreamLine Shower Base and QWall-5 Backwall Kit
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Delta Classic 500 Shower Wall and Shower Pan
↓ Jump to Review - BEST 5-PIECE: Craft + Main Jetcoat 5-Piece Shower Kit
↓ Jump to Review - BEST ACCESSORIES: Sterling Store+ Shower Base With Shower Walls
↓ Jump to Review - BEST DESIGN: Castico Solid Composite Stone Shower Kit
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR SENIORS: Laurel Mountain Almedia Alcove 4-Piece Shower Kit
↓ Jump to Review - BEST TUB CONVERSION KIT: CleanCut Wide Step Bathtub Conversion Kit
↓ Jump to Review - BEST TUB SURROUND: Bootz NexTile 6030 4-Piece Alcove Tub Wall Kit
↓ Jump to Review - BEST SHOWER STALL: Maax Mediterranean III Shower Kit
↓ Jump to Review - BEST SHOWER-DOOR KIT: DreamLine Encore Bypass Shower Door and Base Kit
↓ Jump to Review
Before You Buy a Tub-to-Shower Conversion Kit
There are essentially two options when switching out a tub with a shower: tiling a new shower or installing a shower enclosure kit, which is essentially a premade, ready-to-install shower enclosure. Installing a shower kit is often cheaper and easier than tiling a new shower, and the best shower kits on our list can look just as stylish as a tiled option. Choosing the best shower surrounds for a bathroom comes down to budget and preferred finished look.
When removing a bathtub, especially an old tub, there’s always the possibility of finding damage beneath. Since a new shower should last upward of a decade before the need to repair or update, it’s important to make sure the foundation it’s built on will last at least that amount of time as well.
Once the bathtub is pulled out, make sure to check the condition of the floor and subfloor, framing, and the existing plumbing. Look for signs of water damage and repair as needed. Repair any areas of subfloor or studs that might have been damaged in the removal process. It’s also a good idea to update the plumbing fixtures as part of the project to lower the chance of leaks in the future.
How We Chose the Best Tub-to-Shower Conversion Kits
With the amount of time and money that goes into converting a tub to a shower, it’s vital to choose the right shower kit. Since every bathroom remodel costs a certain amount and requires different things, we chose a range of tub-to-shower conversion products, from products that can retrofit an existing tub to different styles of walk-in tub-to-shower kits.
Regardless of the product type, we looked for a few key features. We chose kits with high-quality materials that we believe will hold up for the decade-plus that a new shower should last. Through reading product specs and shopper reviews, we prioritized products that are easy to install so DIYers can tackle the job, at least in part. Lastly, a shower is a main piece of the bathroom, so we also considered style, choosing tub shower conversion kits that look attractive.
Our Top Picks
Replacing a tub with a shower is a major reno, but the best shower kits make it an easier task. We’ve rounded up the best shower enclosures to buy for this big bathroom renovation, each of which has been organized by category and comes with a list of pros and cons.
Best Overall
DreamLine Shower Base and QWall-5 Backwall Kit
Product Specs
- Type: Alcove
- Components: Shower walls and pan
- Dimensions: 76.75 inches tall by 60 inches wide by 30 inches deep
Pros
- Distinctive diamond tile pattern provides a modern and clean appearance
- The low-profile shower pan is modern and accessible; comes with beautiful tilework
- Comes in right-, left-, or center-drain options depending on the current bathroom setup
Cons
- Back wall has a visible seam; may require some shower caulk to cover if desired
- Only comes in white, which may not match some bathrooms
Modern, durable, and with a touch of glam, the DreamLine shower base and QWALL-5 backwall kit is an attractive choice for contemporary bathrooms. As part of its contemporary silhouette, this shower has a low pan threshold and a textured floor surface to improve safety. The diamond tile pattern gives this shower a distinctive luxe look, and it comes with two built-in glass shelves to complete the look and add useful storage.
This shower kit measures 76.75 inches tall by 60 inches wide by 30 inches deep, so it will fit in most bathtub alcove spaces. It’s made from an acrylic and ABS (polymer) material with a glossy finish that holds up nicely to scratches and stains. A right, left, or center drain configuration is available to suit most bathroom layouts.
Get the DreamLine shower base and backwall tub-to-shower conversion kit at Amazon, or Lowe’s.
Best Bang for the Buck
Delta Classic 500 Shower Wall and Shower Pan
Product Specs
- Type: Alcove
- Components: Shower walls and pan
- Dimensions: 73.25 inches tall by 59.875 inches wide by 33.125 inches deep
Pros
- Available in left-, right-, or center-drain configurations depending on the current bathroom setup
- Includes ample built-in shelving and a high accessories ledge for ample storage of bath products
- Caulk-free design makes installation easy and reduces chance of leaks
Cons
- Shower floor can feel slippery; may require a rubber mat for safety
- Only comes in 1 color option; may not suit some users’ preferences
Affordable and easy to install, the Delta Classic 500 three-piece alcove shower kit is top choice for renovators on a budget. This alcove shower kit includes the three shower walls and a low-threshold shower pan, suitable for replacing 60-inch-wide by 32-inch-deep bathtubs. This shower installs directly onto the wall studs and features a caulkless design, which means simpler installation. Shoppers can choose from a left-, right-, or center-drain configuration as well to make it easier to match current plumbing locations.
This shower is made from white acrylic, which looks sleek and is sturdy and easy to clean. To add to its utility, it has built-in shelving to keep toiletries organized as well as an accessory ledge along the top to store smaller items (like razors and jewelry) out of the splash zone and out of reach of children.
Get the Delta tub-to-shower conversion kit at The Home Depot.
Best 5-Piece
Craft + Main Jetcoat 5-Piece Shower Kit
Product Specs
- Type: Alcove
- Components: Shower walls and pan
- Dimensions: 78 inches tall by 60 inches wide by 32 inches deep
Pros
- Slip-resistant shower pan and low threshold built into the design for safety
- Modern and stylish marble pattern is compatible with multiple bathroom fixtures
- Made to be fire retardant, waterproof, and highly impact- and chemical- resistant
- Can be installed over existing tile or waterproof backer board
Cons
- Some users did not like the look of the optional trim
It can be tricky to move around a one-piece or even three-piece shower kit. Those looking for an option that’s easy to transport and install might consider this five-piece shower kit from Craft + Main. This shower includes a five-panel wall kit and a shower pan. The finished shower measures 78 inches tall by 60 inches wide by 32 inches deep and has an elegant white Carrara marble appearance to give the shower an aesthetic upgrade.
This fire retardant, waterproof, and impact- and chemical-resistant shower kit can be installed over existing tile or waterproof backer board. For those who don’t want to pull the tub out, it’s possible to cut the walls to fit around a tub or existing shower-pan configuration. However, the set comes with a durable acrylic shower pan that features a low threshold and slip-resistant floor for safety. The walls are made of acrylic, fiberglass, and resin composite, so it’s as durable as it is stylish.
Get the Craft + Main tub-to-shower conversion kit at The Home Depot.
Best Accessories
Sterling Store+ Shower Base With Shower Walls
Product Specs
- Type: Alcove
- Components: Shower walls and pan
- Dimensions: 72.5 inches tall by 60 inches wide by 30 inches deep
Pros
- Size and drain location are suitable when replacing existing bathtubs
- Excellent built-in dishwasher-safe storage bins and shelves for easy maintenance
- Contains classic accessibility solutions like a built-in shaving ledge for convenience
Cons
- Corner shelves are small; each can fit only a few items
If storage and organization are concerns for the shower, the Sterling Store+ shower base with shower walls is a stellar choice. This shower kit includes 10 accessories for organizing toiletries: two caddies, two soap dishes, two hooks, and four rimmed shelves. All of the bins and shelves are dishwasher-safe as well for easy cleaning. Plus, there’s a built-in shaving ledge footrest for extra utility.
Of course, this kit includes the shower walls and pan as well, in either a left- or right-drain configuration. It measures 72.5 inches tall by 60 inches wide by 30 inches deep, and its drain aligns with most existing baths, so it’s ideal for fitting in the alcove left by many standard bathtubs. This enclosure is made from solid Vikrell, a composite fiberglass and resin material that is lightweight but durable.
Get the Sterling tub-to-shower conversion kit at The Home Depot.
Best Design
Castico Solid Composite Stone Shower Kit
Product Specs
- Type: Alcove
- Components: Shower walls and pan
- Dimensions: 84 inches tall by 60 inches wide by 32 inches deep
Pros
- Stylish continuous marble stone look blends in well with most bathroom fixtures
- Anti-slip shower pan looks and feels like stone for increased traction and safety
- Easy maintenance and cleaning requirements thanks to the grout-free design
Cons
- Does not include any shelving; must install accessory shelving via drilling or adhesive
With its marble appearance and composite stone material, the Castico solid composite stone shower kit is an attractive choice for modern bathrooms. This alcove shower kit includes the shower walls and pan to convert a tub to a walk-in shower that is 84 inches tall by 60 inches wide by 32 inches deep.
This step-in shower is made of a stain- and scratch-resistant mineral composite material that looks more elegant than glossy acrylic. It’s finished with a continuous marble stone look, plus the upkeep is easy since it’s groutless. The shower pan also has a natural textured finish (that looks and feels like stone) and can be installed in a left- or right-drain configuration.
Get the Castico tub-to-shower conversion kit at The Home Depot.