Everything You Need to Know About RV Showers

Sep 6, 2021 | Maintenance & Mods

Everything You Need to Know About RV Showers

Does your RV shower need an upgrade? Learn more about everything from RV water pressure and troubleshooting to dry camping tips.

By Amy Rekart

Owning an RV with a bathroom and shower means you have everything you need within an arm’s reach. You don’t have to share facilities with other campers, you’re in control of the cleanliness, and you don’t have to walk across the campground in inclement weather.

However, RV showers also come with some drawbacks: Hot water can be a limited resource, showers are usually small, and water pressure can be inadequate. But with a few tips, modifications, and upgrades, your shower experience can become much more enjoyable. 

Here’s every question you have about RV showers, answered. 

Bathroom in an RV with shower door open and separate toilet
How long can you take a shower in an RV?

Consider the following questions. Do you have water hookups or not? How many gallons does your hot water heater hold? How many people need to shower?

If water conservation is a priority because you’re dry camping, 5 minutes or less in the shower is recommended.  

If you have water hookups and conserving water isn’t necessary, you can technically take a shower for as long as your hot water will last. When RVing, a 10-minute shower is reasonable. But if multiple people need to shower, you’ll need to take shorter showers so your hot water lasts longer. 

Some RVers replace their factory water heater tank with a tankless water heater, which allows for unlimited hot water. The cost varies from $150 to $650 depending on your needs.

How many gallons of water does an RV shower use?

The amount of water an RV shower uses will depend on the type of camping.

Dry Camping: On average, an estimated 1 to 5 gallons per shower might be used while dry camping. You should consider the number of days you’re camping, how long you’re showering, and the size of your gray tank

Hookups: Water and sewer usage is unlimited while connected to full hookups, so you can take a longer shower without worrying about conservation. The amount of water used while hooked up could be around 3 to 10 gallons at a time. The amount can be controlled by the user—the longer the shower, the more water used.

What does a dry bath mean in an RV?

A dry bath is a type of RV bathroom that’s similar to that found in a sticks-and-bricks house. The shower, toilet, and sink are all separate, and water is contained within the shower stall. 

What does a wet bath mean in an RV?

A wet bath is an RV bathroom designed to be compact and functional, where the sink, shower, and toilet are all exposed to water when showering. It’s a way to save space while also benefiting from a fully functional bathroom.

Shower with bathtub and shelving in an RV
A dry bath in an RV.
Toilet, sink, and shower hose as part of a wet bath in an RV
A wet bath in an RV.
What size is an RV shower?

RV showers come in varying sizes, and some models even include a bathtub and shower combination. Most RV showers are walk-ins and an average of 33 inches wide, but this size varies greatly. When choosing an RV floor plan, it’s important to consider the size of an RV shower for comfort and practicality. 

What is good water pressure in an RV?

Safe water pressure for an RV is between 40 and 50 PSI, and shouldn’t exceed 60 PSI in newer rigs. The higher the pressure, the more you risk damaging the water system. You can maintain pressure with a water pressure regulator, which is an essential item for RVers.

How do I get more water pressure in my RV shower?

Many aftermarket showerheads claim to provide high pressure, so try replacing your factory showerhead. If you still have low water pressure, check your water system, remove any blockages or build up, and repair or replace cracked pipes.

Pebble stone shower floor with lighting and bump out seat in a luxury RV shower

Common Problems With RV Showers


Why is the water pressure low in my RV?

Although a water pressure regulator doesn’t increase the flow of water, it helps keep the pressure consistent, which may improve the feel of the pressure in the shower. Many water pressure regulators allow you to adjust the PSI as well.

The easiest and most valuable upgrade you can do is replace the RV showerhead. It’s a simple and inexpensive process that requires no tools.

What can I clean my RV shower with?

After each shower, spray a gentle shower cleaner on the walls and floor and give it a quick scrub and rinse. Then squeegee all excess water toward the drain. This will prevent mildew build-up and keep your shower looking and smelling fresh.

How do I make my RV shower last longer?

The simplest way to make an RV shower last longer is by turning the water off when lathering and back on when rinsing. Consider replacing your existing showerhead with a low-flow showerhead that has a pause feature. 

A more expensive solution is to go tankless. With a tankless water heater, your hot water lasts as long as your water supply and power, so if you’re attached to full hookups, you can take a shower for as long as you’d like without running out of hot water.

Person wearing work gloves to replace a showerhead by unscrewing the hose

What to Know When Replacing Your RV Shower


How much does an RV shower cost?

An RV shower enclosure starts at around $279 and can cost up to $1,300.

How can I improve my RV shower?

In addition to replacing your RV showerhead, you can replace the hot and cold valves. Add a shelf or organizational accessory for storage or a hanging plant for a fresh feel. To conserve water, install a shut-off valve to your existing showerhead. Replace the door or shower curtain, or add a curved curtain rod to enlarge the space.

Can you replace a shower in an RV?

Some RVers renovate and replace outdated, broken, or moldy shower enclosures. It’s an in-depth job, so make sure to have a plan, do your research, and enlist professionals when necessary.

How can I swap out my RV showerhead?

Your replacement showerhead doesn’t have to be made specifically for RVs, but it does need to connect to your existing RV shower plumbing. Most showerheads that easily work with an RV are handheld with a flexible hose, which easily screws on to the faucet fixture. Use plumbers tape for a water-tight connection.

The Best Showerhead Replacements for RVs

Best for: 

Highest value at the lowest cost, around $14.

Best for: 

Increasing water pressure.

Best for: 

Most popular among RVers; it has five spray settings, a flow-control lever, and increases water pressure.

Best for: 

A sleek, updated look while providing the necessary comforts.


Showering can be a tricky part of RVing that takes trial and error. With the help of these easy modifications and tips, you won’t miss the comforts of a stationary shower ever again.

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Amy Rekart

Amy, along with her husband Matthew, are the couple behind Carpe Diem Campers. They travel in their Cruiser RV Stryker toy hauler with their two dogs and two cats. Amy works remotely teaching physical education and health. In her free time, she and her husband are exploring the outdoors, visiting small towns, and finding the best breweries around.