Steam Shower Buying Guide
Steam Shower Buying Guide
Buying a luxury steam shower is one of the most rewarding upgrades you can make to your home — but with so many models, configurations, and features to consider, it can feel overwhelming. This guide walks you through every decision you'll need to make, in the right order, so you can choose with confidence. If you still have questions after reading, our team is available at (800) 290-6812.
Step 1: Choose Your Type
The first decision is the most important: what kind of steam shower do you want? Aquapeutics offers three distinct categories, each serving a different purpose.
Steam Shower Only
A standalone steam shower combines a fully enclosed shower enclosure with a built-in steam generator. You get the full steam room experience plus a standard shower — rainfall showerhead, massage jets, Bluetooth audio, chromotherapy lighting, and more — in a single self-contained unit. This is the most popular choice and the right starting point for most buyers.
Steam Shower + Sauna Combination
A steam shower sauna combo integrates a full steam shower on one side and a dedicated sauna compartment on the other. These units let you switch between a wet steam session and a dry sauna heat session without leaving the enclosure. Aquapeutics offers both infrared sauna and traditional dry sauna versions — more on the difference below.
Steam Shower + Whirlpool Tub Combination
A steam shower tub combo integrates a fully featured steam shower with a built-in whirlpool soaking tub. These units are larger than standard steam showers and deliver the most comprehensive hydrotherapy experience available — steam, massage jets in the shower zone, and whirlpool jets in the tub zone. Ideal for buyers who want everything in one footprint.
Step 2: Understand the Sauna Options
If you're considering a steam sauna combination unit, you'll need to choose between infrared and traditional. This is a meaningful difference — not just a marketing distinction.
Infrared Sauna
Infrared saunas use infrared heaters to emit radiant heat that is absorbed directly by the skin's surface. They operate at lower temperatures (120–150°F) than traditional saunas but penetrate more deeply into muscle and tissue. Infrared heat is widely regarded as the superior choice for muscle recovery, joint relief, and detoxification. The lower operating temperature also makes infrared saunas more accessible for people who find traditional sauna heat too intense.
Aquapeutics infrared sauna models: Tahitian, Southwood
Traditional Dry Sauna
Traditional saunas use an electric stove to heat rocks to very high temperatures (150–195°F), warming the air through convection and conduction. Pouring water over the hot rocks creates a burst of steam (called löyly) that briefly raises the humidity. Traditional sauna heat is intense, enveloping, and deeply cleansing — this is the authentic Finnish sauna experience that has been practiced for centuries. If you want the real thing, choose traditional.
Aquapeutics traditional sauna models: Hawaiian, Saint Kitts
Step 3: Choose Your Configuration
Once you've decided on the type, the next question is how the unit will fit into your bathroom. This comes down to installation configuration.
Corner Installation
The most common configuration. The steam shower installs into the corner of your bathroom, using two existing walls as the back walls of the unit. Corner units are available in square and rectangular footprints. They work in virtually any bathroom with a corner large enough to accommodate the unit's dimensions.
Walk-In / Alcove Installation
A walk-in steam shower (also called an alcove installation) installs against three existing walls — similar to a standard shower enclosure. The unit has one glass door and one or two glass side panels. Walk-in units are ideal for bathroom renovations where a dedicated shower alcove has been framed, or for replacing an existing tiled shower.
Browse Walk-In Steam Showers →
Left or Right Orientation
Some models — particularly the Essex and Aspen steam shower tub combos — are available in both left and right configurations. This refers to which side of the unit the tub is on, which affects plumbing rough-in locations. Choose based on your bathroom's plumbing layout and which wall your drain is closest to.
Step 4: Measure Your Space
Getting the dimensions right is critical — and often where buyers make costly mistakes. Here's how to approach it.
Measure the Available Corner or Alcove
For corner installations, measure both walls of the corner from the corner point outward, and measure the floor-to-ceiling height. The unit's footprint (length × width) must fit within the available wall space with enough room to open the door. Account for any obstructions — toilet, vanity, towel bars — that might block door clearance.
Check Door Clearance
Most Aquapeutics steam showers feature sliding doors, hinged doors, or bifold doors. Make sure the door style on your chosen model works in your space. If a toilet or vanity is immediately adjacent to the door side of the unit, a sliding door is almost always the better choice.
Don't Undersize or Oversize
In a large master bathroom, a compact 40"×40" unit can look undersized and out of place. In a smaller bathroom, a 64"×64" combo unit will dominate the room. Use the dimensions of your available space as the starting point, then find models that fit comfortably within those dimensions.
Our Size Ranges at a Glance
| Product Type | Typical Footprint Range |
|---|---|
| Compact corner steam shower | 47" × 32" to 57" × 38" |
| Standard corner steam shower | 60" × 40" to 64" × 40" |
| Large / 2-person steam shower | 47" × 47" to 60" × 40" |
| Steam sauna combo | 71" × 48" to 86.5" × 48" |
| Steam tub combo | 59" × 34" to 64" × 64" |
Step 5: Choose Your Features
All Aquapeutics steam showers include a core set of features as standard. Understanding what each does helps you prioritize what matters most to you.
Standard Features on All Models
- Steam Generator — The heart of the unit. Heats up in minutes to fill the enclosure with therapeutic steam. Most models include a digital control panel to set temperature, time, and auto-shutoff.
- Overhead Rainfall Shower — A ceiling-mounted showerhead that delivers a drenching, immersive rain-like flow. Most models feature an 8" diameter head; premium models go up to 16".
- Handheld Shower on Slide Rail — A height-adjustable handheld shower that can be used for targeted rinsing or as a conventional shower.
- Digital Control Panel — Controls all unit functions from a single interface: steam, lighting, fan, ozone, radio, and more.
- Acupuncture Massage Jets — Body massage jets positioned on the back wall and/or sides of the enclosure. The number of jets varies by model (6–15 on most units).
- Bluetooth Audio — Built-in speakers with wireless connectivity. Stream music, podcasts, or audiobooks from any Bluetooth-enabled device.
- Chromotherapy LED Lighting — Color-changing mood lighting. Different colors are associated with different wellness benefits — a practice known as chromotherapy.
- Aromatherapy System — Add liquid or solid essential oils to the steam box during use for additional relaxation and wellness benefits.
- Ozone Disinfection — Automatic self-cleaning function. Run after each session to sanitize the enclosure and prevent mold and mildew.
- Ventilation Fan — Expels humid air after steam sessions, helping the enclosure dry out between uses.
- Folding Seat — Space-saving fold-away seating for comfort during steam sessions.
- Temperature Detection — Automatic monitoring that maintains your preferred steam temperature throughout your session.
Premium Features on Select Models
- 16" Overhead Rainfall Shower — Available on the Southwood — the largest and most immersive rainfall showerhead in the lineup.
- 2-Person Capacity — The Tahitian and Saint Kitts sauna combos feature side-by-side seating and dual independent zones for two users.
- Walk-In Tub Door — Exclusive to the Freedom — a hinged access door that allows step-free entry into the tub, designed for accessibility and aging-in-place.
- Infrared Sauna — Available on the Tahitian and Southwood.
- Traditional Dry Sauna — Available on the Hawaiian and Saint Kitts.
Finish Options
Most steam shower models are available in two finishes: White (standard bright white frame and panels) and Black (matte black frame with dark-tinted glass). The Black finish creates a dramatically different aesthetic — darker, more modern, and spa-like. Both finishes are available at the same price.
Step 6: Understand the Installation Requirements
Before you purchase, make sure your bathroom can accommodate the electrical and plumbing requirements of your chosen unit. These are non-negotiable — the work must be done by licensed professionals.
Electrical
All Aquapeutics steam showers require at least one dedicated 240V / 16A GFCI-protected circuit for the steam generator. Units with a built-in sauna require a second dedicated circuit for the sauna heater. A licensed electrician must install these circuits before your unit arrives. Never connect a steam shower to a shared or existing circuit.
Plumbing
You'll need one cold and one hot water supply line at the rough-in location specified in your unit's installation diagram. Supply lines connect via standard G1/2" (DN15) fittings. Water pressure should be between 0.15–0.4 MPa (22–58 PSI). A licensed plumber must make the connections.
Drain
A floor drain is required for all steam shower installations. The drain must be flush with the finished floor surface and should be a minimum of 2" (DN50) in diameter. The drain location must align with the unit's drain outlet — check the rough-in diagram for your specific model before any floor work is done.
Wall Preparation
Corner installations require two finished, tiled, plumb, and square walls. Walk-in installations require three. Walls must be waterproofed and fully tiled before the unit is positioned. The floor should be level, structurally sound, and waterproofed.
Step 7: Plan Your Budget
Aquapeutics steam showers range from $4,499 to $9,999 depending on the model and configuration. Here's how to think about the total cost of ownership:
| Cost Component | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Steam shower unit | $4,499 – $9,999 | Free shipping included on all orders |
| Electrician (circuit installation) | $300 – $800 | Varies by location and complexity |
| Plumber (rough-in connections) | $200 – $500 | Typically 1–2 hours of work |
| Installer / handyman (assembly) | $300 – $600 | 4–8 hours; can be DIY for enclosure assembly |
| Extended warranty (optional) | $499 | Upgrades 3-year parts to Lifetime Parts Warranty |
Financing is available on all Aquapeutics products. Visit our Financing page or call (800) 290-6812 for details.
Step 8: Compare Models Side by Side
Once you've narrowed down your type and configuration, use the comparison below to find the right model for your space and needs.
Steam Showers — Quick Reference
| Model | Dimensions | Config | Jets | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mediterranean | 57" × 37.5" × 87.75" | Corner | 6 | $4,499 |
| Zephyr | 47.25" × 31.5" × 86" | Corner | 12 | $4,499 |
| Calypso | 60" × 40" × 87.75" | Corner / Walk-In | 6 | $4,499 |
| Oasis | 60" × 40" × 88" | Walk-In | 6 | $4,999 |
| Santorini | 47.25" × 47.25" × 86" | Corner | 12 | $4,999 |
| Caribbean | 64" × 64" × 87" | Corner / Tub Combo | 12 + tub jets | $5,299 |
Sauna Combinations — Quick Reference
| Model | Dimensions | Sauna Type | Capacity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaiian | 71" × 48" × 86.5" | Traditional | 1–2 person | $5,699 |
| Southwood | 71" × 48" × 90" | Infrared | 1–2 person | $8,499 |
| Tahitian | 86.5" × 48" × 86.5" | Infrared | 2 person | $6,999 |
| Saint Kitts | 86.5" × 48" × 86.5" | Traditional | 2 person | $6,499 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a steam shower session last?
Most people find 15–30 minutes to be the ideal session length. The digital control panel lets you set a time limit and temperature limit for automatic shutoff. Beginners should start with shorter sessions and work up as they acclimate to the steam.
Can two people use a steam shower at the same time?
Yes — several Aquapeutics models are designed for two users. The Tahitian and Saint Kitts sauna combos feature dedicated two-person seating with independent shower zones. The Santorini is our largest corner steam shower with a 47.25" × 47.25" footprint designed for two.
How much does it cost to run a steam shower?
A typical 3.5kW steam generator running for 30 minutes costs approximately $0.15–$0.25 depending on your local electricity rate. Daily use adds roughly $4–$8 per month to your bill — comparable to running a hair dryer.
How do I maintain a steam shower?
Run the ozone sterilization cycle after each use. Wipe acrylic surfaces with a soft damp cloth — avoid abrasive cleaners. Clean the showerheads and jet nozzles periodically to prevent mineral scale. Inspect door seals annually and reapply silicone sealant if any gaps appear. Full maintenance instructions are included in your unit's operating manual.
Ready to Choose?
Browse our full steam shower collection or call our team for personalized guidance. We've been helping customers find the right unit since 2007 — we know every model inside and out.
Questions? Call (800) 290-6812 or contact us online.