Rectangular shower trays are quickly becoming a popular choice for anyone renovating their bathroom, and it’s easy to see why. With their adaptable sizing and flexible installation, they work well whether you need to make the most of a small space or want something eye-catching for a larger bathroom.
Unlike square or quadrant shower trays, a rectangular design gives you more room to move, and more ways to achieve your chosen interior style, from classic to contemporary. If you’re considering a change, it’s worth exploring the rectangular shower trays on the market, so you can enjoy a shower space that feels spacious and luxurious.
Why Choose a Rectangular Shower Tray?
There’s a wide range of shower trays to choose from, providing a solution for any bathroom size and shape. Rectangular trays offer an elongated shower space, providing more room to move than square or quadrant trays. While square trays are compact and versatile, ideal for smaller spaces, and quadrant trays save corner space with their curved fronts, rectangular designs offer the perfect balance between comfort and space efficiency.
They provide plenty of room to shower without overwhelming the bathroom footprint, and are adaptable to many bathroom configurations. Their straight edges also allow pairing with sliding doors, ideal in tighter spaces where door swing clearance is a concern.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rectangular Shower Tray
When it comes to selecting the right rectangular shower tray for your bathroom, factor in these essential details:
Bathroom Layout and Space
Careful measurement is essential to choosing a tray that feels comfortable, yet perfectly fits your bathroom. When planning the layout, consider how the shower tray will affect existing features, such as doors, windows, radiators, alcoves, and sloped ceilings.
For smaller rooms, wall-to-wall shower trays can maximise every inch of floor space, while oversized trays create a walk-in effect in larger bathrooms. Opting for a rectangular tray can even visually elongate the room, giving the impression of added space, so bear this in mind when making design decisions.
Tray Material
The material a shower tray is made from directly influences its durability, maintenance needs and lifespan. At Bathroom Supastore, our rectangular trays are typically made from high-quality stone resin, known for its ability to withstand general wear and tear. They are also acrylic-capped to provide a smooth, non-porous surface that’s stain-resistant and easy to clean.
For something slightly different, slate-effect shower trays offer a sophisticated look, with a textured surface that looks good and feels good underfoot. With these sleek designs, the waste is completely concealed too, providing a more appealing look. When comparing materials, look for solutions that are lightweight yet long-lasting and will simplify cleaning routines.
Profile and Height
Rectangular trays come in both standard and ultra-slim profiles to suit a range of design needs. Low-profile trays are typically under 40mm in height and designed to sit flush with the floor, creating a streamlined look and making the bathroom appear more open. They are particularly popular for walk-in and accessible showers.
However, raised trays may be preferable if you have tricky plumbing or older waste pipes to hide. When selecting a profile, consider ease of access for all ages and whether you want to create a contemporary or traditional feel. Regardless of height, you can trust that quality shower trays provide rock-solid stability, with no flexing or creaking.
Waste and Drainage Location
Choosing a rectangular tray with the right waste position is key for both installation and long-term use. More often than not, the drain is located in the corner of the tray or in the centre at the front/back, but other positions are available for specific plumbing needs. Matching the drain position to your existing plumbing setup will reduce installation time and costs, particularly if you’re not completely renovating your bathroom.
Consider the appearance of the shower waste too. Generally, round options are the most popular, but long drain styles are also a great choice, particularly for a wet room-style shower. Also think about whether you prefer a visible or concealed waste.
Style and Finish
The finish of your rectangular shower tray affects practicality, visual appeal, and how it feels underfoot. High-gloss white finishes create a bright, modern look that works with virtually any decor. These finishes resist stains and watermarks, making them an excellent fit for busy homes and anyone wanting a low-maintenance solution. Whereas slate-effect and textured finishes mimic the look of natural stone, adding sophistication to the bathroom.
When it comes to style, there is a range of colour options to choose from, to suit your broader bathroom colour scheme and personal taste. Some shower trays also feature dedicated drying areas, cleverly designed for comfort and convenience without compromising on style. For those prioritising safety, trays with advanced anti-slip patterns or gel-coated surfaces provide a secure grip, reducing the risk of falls in wet environments.
Matching Shower Doors to Rectangular Trays and Bathroom Sizes
Pairing the right shower door with your chosen tray is crucial for both usability and aesthetics. Here are some sought-after options for rectangular shower trays:
- Sliding shower doors are space-saving and ideal for rectangular shower trays in bathrooms with limited clearance space. They glide along a track and don’t require extra room to open, making them perfect for family bathrooms or en-suites.
- Pivot and hinged shower doors work best in larger bathrooms with no obstructions. Both swing outward, offering full access and an elegant finish. They are well matched to medium and large rectangular trays.
- Bi-fold shower doors fold inward, making them an excellent choice for small bathrooms. This design can maximise usable floor space and avoid blocking walkways. Bi-fold doors still offer a wide opening, especially when paired with a rectangular tray.
- Walk-in, wet-room panels pair beautifully with low-profile rectangular trays, creating an open, barrier-free showering area ideal for luxury bathrooms or enhanced accessibility. Pair with professional sealing for a watertight finish.
Size Guide for Maximising Space and Comfort
Selecting the right rectangular shower tray means balancing your available space with desired comfort and style. The ideal size and door combination will help create a functional and enjoyable showering experience tailored to your bathroom.
- Small Bathrooms and En-Suites - Choose rectangular trays measuring 700-800mm wide by 800-900mm long, and doors that slide or bi-fold to save space.
- Regular Family Bathrooms - Popular sizes include 1200x800mm and 1400x900mm. Hinged or pivot doors work well if space allows; otherwise, opt for sliding doors.
- Luxury and Walk-In Showers - For the ultimate shower experience, consider 1700x900mm or larger with walk-in panels or dual entry points.
Always check your bathroom measurements several times before you purchase a shower tray, accounting for any pipework, radiators, or towel rails, to ensure a perfect fit.
Why Choose Bathroom Supastore for a Rectangular Shower Tray?
At Bathroom Supastore, we supply a wide range of rectangular shower trays, offering premium quality, affordability, and customer-focused service. From luxurious walk-in showers to space-saving enclosures, our selection is perfect for any bathroom project. You can browse and order online or get in touch with our expert team for some tailored advice to help you find the perfect solution for your home.
In addition to shower trays, we stock everything you need to complete your showering space, from high-quality shower doors to shower solutions. With express delivery options available too, we will help keep your project on track.