Steam showers have become a hot remodeling trend as homeowners are looking for ways to recreate the spa experience at home. Steam shower are now surpassing soaking tubs and whirlpool tubs as the preferred way to relax and indulge.

Steam showers provide a number of benefits:

• A steam shower can help reduce stress levels and improve sleep quality.
• It increase blood circulation, which helps relieve stiff joints and sore muscles.
• Steam hydrates skin and is great for soothing dry skin during the winter. The warmth and moisture will open your pores, allowing them to better absorb moisturizers.
• Steam causes the body to sweat, which helps force out toxins that have accumulated in the body.
• Soaking in a steam shower can help boost your immune system by helping eliminate bacteria and viruses from the body. Regular steam showers also increase white blood cell production, which also boosts your immunity.
• Inhaling steam when you have a cold helps relieve congestion and inflammation.
• The increase in blood circulation also stimulates your metabolism, which helps you burn more calories and eliminate excess water.
• Because a 20-minute steam shower uses only about 2 gallons of water, it is a great way to conserve water while still relaxing and pampering yourself.

Most bathrooms can be altered to accommodate a steam shower. Even though a steam shower serves dual duty as a standard shower, a steam shower does have some additional requirements. It must be installed in an enclosed, moisture-sealed shower stall. Proper waterproofing is critical to avoid moisture damage such as mold. The ceiling should have a maximum height of eight feet and should slope slightly so that any water that condenses will be directed away from you rather than dripping onto you during your steam shower. If you have sufficient space, create bench seat in your steam shower. If space is tight, consider a fold-up seat that will allow you to maximize your shower space. Digital controls will allow you to adjust the temperature and duration of your steam shower.

A steam generator is required to create the steam in the shower. It works by boiling water in the generator and then piping the resulting vapor into the shower stall through a steam head. You will need to install your steam generator within about 25 feet of your shower. Inside a nearby closet or cabinet is a common location. When selecting a generator, look for a model that heats the water in a minute or less and that includes a remote control so that you don’t have to move a muscle if you want to adjust the temperature or time of your soak.

Due to the waterproofing, plumbing, and electrical work required to properly install a steam shower, it’s a job best left to professionals, such as Mission Kitchen and Bath.