Taking a shower is an essential part of the daily hygiene routine for many people. But with water conservation being an increasing concern, many wonder what the optimal shower length should be. Here we’ll look at the factors that go into determining the ideal shower time and provide some general recommendations.
Why take showers?
Showers serve several purposes:
- Cleaning the body – Showers remove dirt, sweat, dead skin cells, and oils that build up on the skin throughout the day.
- Hygiene – Showering helps prevent body odor by washing away bacteria that cause odors. It can also help prevent skin infections.
- Relaxation – Hot showers can help relax muscles and ease tension after a long day.
- Waking up/preparing for the day – For many, a morning shower helps fully wake up and start the day feeling refreshed.
Factors that influence ideal shower length
There are several factors that determine how long someone should spend in the shower:
Hair length and type
It takes more time to thoroughly shampoo and condition long, thick hair compared to short, thin hair. Curly and coily hair often requires more intensive conditioning than straight, fine hair.
Showering purpose
A quick rinse after exercise needs less time than a thorough cleaning shower or one meant to relax muscles.
Bathing habits
Some people shower more than once a day, especially in hot climates or after activities causing heavy sweating. The length of each shower may be shorter for those who bathe multiple times daily.
Gender
Women often have longer or thicker hair requiring more time to wash. They may also shave their legs and underarms, adding a few more minutes to shower time.
Climate and season
In hot, humid climates people tend to shower more frequently. Colder months where drier skin is common lead some to limit showering. Shower time may be adjusted accordingly.
Age and mobility
Young children and elderly individuals may need more time moving in/out of a shower safely. Disabled or injured people may also need accommodations like shower chairs that add time.
Bathing children or pets
Showering with babies, toddlers or pets requires additional time for their bathing needs.
Water pressure
Low water pressure can prolong the time needed to rinse off soap and shampoo from the body.
Water usage statistics
Here are some statistics on average shower water usage:
| Showerhead flow rate | Average shower time | Average water used |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5 gallons (9.5 liters) per minute | 8.2 minutes | 20.5 gallons (77.6 liters) |
| 1.5 gallons (5.7 liters) per minute | 8.2 minutes | 12.3 gallons (46.6 liters) |
As shown, showerhead flow rates and total shower lengths significantly impact water usage. Installing water-efficient showerheads and setting timers can help reduce water waste.
Recommendations for optimal shower length
Most experts recommend the following shower lengths for average adults and teens:
Everyday cleaning
5-10 minutes is sufficient for most people. This allows enough time to wet the body, shampoo and condition hair, wash the body, and rinse clean.
Post-exercise
Aim for 5 minutes or less to simply rinse away sweat without wasting water on a full cleaning.
Relaxing shower
10-15 minutes gives time to enjoy a hotter, leisurely shower that can relax muscles and the mind after a stressful day. Use sparingly for water conservation.
Water-saving tips
To save water while showering, experts recommend:
- Take shorter showers.
- Install a low-flow showerhead to use less water.
- Turn off water while lathering up to prevent waste.
- Set a timer as a reminder to keep showers brief.
- Plug the tub before turning on the shower to conserve hot water.
Conclusion
Most experts agree that 5-10 minutes is sufficient shower time for the average healthy adult or teen when showering once a day. Longer showers of 10-15 minutes can be enjoyed occasionally but frequent lengthy showers waste water. Adjusting time based on specific needs, installing water-saving fixtures, and setting timers can help reduce water usage while keeping bathing habits healthy.