8 Reasons Why You Should Never Pee in the Shower

I’ll be the first to admit it: the debate around peeing in the shower is one of those weird little things people don’t openly talk about, but a lot of us have thought about (or done) at least once. I know I did. Whether it was out of laziness, convenience, or the idea of “saving water,” I used to convince myself that it was harmless.
But the more I learned — and honestly, the more I thought about the hygiene, science, and simple common sense behind it — the more I realized why it’s a habit best left behind.
Why Does It Happen?
Let’s be real: peeing in the shower usually happens because it’s convenient. You’re already naked, the water is running, and the drain is right there. It feels harmless, almost like you’re multitasking for the planet (right?).
Why Do Some People Think It’s Okay?
The most common arguments people make are:
✔️ It saves water (flushing wastes water!)
✔️ It’s all going down the drain anyway!
✔️ Urine is “sterile,” so what’s the harm?
But just because something seems logical at first glance doesn’t mean it’s the healthiest or most respectful practice — for your body, your home, or anyone you live with. We have written 8 reasons why you should pee in the shower.
Is It Reasonable?
Honestly? Not really. Once you understand the science and the bigger picture, peeing in the shower isn’t as harmless as it seems. The short-term “convenience” can lead to long-term hygiene, plumbing, and even psychological habits that are more gross than green.
8 Reasons Why You Should Never Pee in the Shower
- 1️⃣ It can damage your plumbing over time.
Even if urine is mostly water, it still contains acidic compounds and waste byproducts that aren’t great for the longevity of your pipes — especially in older homes. - 2️⃣ It’s unhygienic for shared spaces.
If you share your bathroom, your personal choice could unknowingly expose others to bacteria and odors. Even hot water doesn’t wash away everything. - 3️⃣ It can create lingering smells.
Urine contains urea and ammonia, and even small traces that don’t wash down properly can cling to shower grout, corners, and drains, leaving behind a subtle but unpleasant smell. - 4️⃣ It encourages poor bladder habits.
Regularly peeing in the shower can train your brain to associate running water with the urge to pee — which can be inconvenient (and embarrassing) at the wrong times. - 5️⃣ It reinforces lazy hygiene habits.
Let’s be honest: peeing in the shower is often just about convenience. But this “shortcut mindset” can creep into other hygiene routines too. - 6️⃣ Not all urine is “sterile.”
While fresh urine from a healthy person is usually low-risk, if you have any underlying health issues like a UTI or kidney condition, the bacteria present can linger in your shower space. - 7️⃣ The ‘saving water’ excuse is overrated.
Modern toilets are designed to use minimal water, especially dual-flush models. The water you “save” by skipping a flush is usually offset by the extra time spent rinsing the shower. - 8️⃣ It sets a bad example for kids and housemates.
If you wouldn’t want your children or guests using your shower as a second toilet, why model the behavior yourself? It subtly normalizes something that is objectively unsanitary.
It’s simple: go before you shower. Make it a part of your routine to empty your bladder first, and you won’t even feel tempted to let loose while washing. You’ll avoid all the hygiene issues, plumbing risks, and weird mental associations, and your bathroom will stay fresher for everyone who uses it.
Bottom line: Just because you can pee in the shower doesn’t mean you should. Small, respectful choices in daily life make your home (and health) a lot better in the long run.