Everything about the microcement shower: benefits, ideas and application tips
The microcement shower has become a true standout in modern bathrooms thanks to its perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality. Are you dreaming of creating a spa at home? A peaceful oasis within your own space? A bathroom that’s both stylish and practical?
Choosing a microcement shower goes far beyond looks. And if you’ve landed on this article, it’s because its charm has already caught your eye and you want to know more. So without further delay, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: its main advantages, how to create a microcement shower yourself, how to keep it looking flawless over time, practical tips, and much more in this handy mini guide.
What are the advantages of a microcement shower compared to a conventional shower?
If you’re thinking about renovating your bathroom, a microcement shower can be the real game changer. It’s the first thing you notice when you walk in… and the part you enjoy the most every single day. One of the biggest advantages of this material is that microcement can be applied to both the shower walls and the shower tray, creating a seamless, continuous finish that gives a subtle sense of infinity and a very “magazine-worthy” look.
We know comparisons aren’t always fair, but sometimes it’s impossible not to look at what you have at home and then at what catches your eye elsewhere, right? And yes, a microcement shower has the power to steal the spotlight in your bathroom.
Below, we’ll walk you through the main benefits of microcement showers compared to traditional showers, so you can decide whether it’s the right fit for your bathroom — and for your everyday use.
Easy cleaning
Cleaning a microcement shower takes less time than listening to your favourite song. It’s quick and effortless because, with no grout joints, dirt can’t build up and you don’t have to scrub the same area over and over again. All you need is a damp cloth with water and pH-neutral soap to remove soap residue and limescale, keeping that day-one shine intact.
If you ever notice a stubborn stain or simply prefer a deeper clean, you can use a specific cleaner such as Smart Cleaner. Its high concentration of eco-friendly, biodegradable compounds makes it ideal for cleaning microcement in the shower without damaging the surface.
One important thing to bear in mind: freshly applied microcement should not be cleaned for the first 7 days. After that, feel free to wipe it down as fast as The Flash.
Antibacterial
Have you ever noticed how the grout joints in your shower sometimes turn grey or develop black patches? That’s mould throwing a party between your tiles.
In a microcement shower, mould simply doesn’t stand a chance. With no joints where dirt can settle, grime doesn’t accumulate and bacteria don’t develop. Sounds good, right?
Highly water-resistant
Afraid of water? You shouldn’t be. Microcement easily withstands direct contact with water as well as ambient humidity, making it an ideal shower coating. When properly sealed, you can relax and enjoy long showers until your skin wrinkles — even if you’re firmly on team “lava-hot water”.
There are also products like Smart Booster that provide an extra level of resistance for surfaces such as showers.
That said, if you’re covering the shower tray with microcement, it’s essential to check that the slope towards the drain is correct. Standing water can ruin everything.
Anti-slip
Being able to shower without worrying about slipping is an underrated luxury. And if you have children or live with older people, you’ll breathe a little easier knowing you’re helping to prevent those dreaded slips.
Durable and impact-resistant
Applying microcement in your shower creates a beautiful space designed to last. This coating is highly resistant to daily wear and tear, no matter how many times a day it’s used or how many shampoo bottles are dropped along the way.
That said, if you decide to perform a full drum solo with the shower head and it crashes onto the surface, the impact could damage the microcement. Heavy objects are still heavy objects.
Unlimited customisation
A microcement shower offers a clean, seamless look with a modern, elegant design. This makes it easy to adapt to any bathroom style you have in mind. And with such a wide range of colours and textures available, you can create a space that truly reflects your taste and personality.
A microcement shower offers a clean, seamless look with a modern, elegant design. This makes it easy to adapt to any bathroom style you have in mind. And with such a wide range of colours and textures available, you can create a space that truly reflects your taste and personality.
Renovated shower without construction work
One of the most noticeable advantages of a microcement shower is that it’s applied directly over the existing surface — no demolition, no dust, no rubble and, most importantly, no complicated building permits.
Smooth, seamless finish
The essence of microcement lies in its smooth, continuous, joint-free finish: delicate, seemingly endless and incredibly inviting. A microcement shower has all of that and more — it invites you to dream while drops of calm fall gently on your skin.
Can be applied over many materials
If you’re considering microcement for your shower and wondering which surfaces it works on, here’s the good news.
Microcement can be applied over tiles, slabs, mosaic tiles, porcelain, ceramic, plasterboard, plaster, cement, concrete, terrazzo, marble and even mortar.
Suitable for both walls and shower tray
As you’ve just read, if you dream of having a microcement shower at home, you can absolutely make it happen. What’s more, you can design it exactly as you imagine it, because this material is so versatile that the possibilities in the shower are virtually endless.
Whether you want to coat only the walls, only the shower tray, or both, it’s all possible. There’s a line in a song by Vetusta Morla, a well-known Spanish indie band, that says “letting yourself go sounds pretty good”. And now that you know microcement can be applied both on walls and on the shower tray, you might as well take that advice and let your imagination run free.
If you ultimately decide to cover only part of your shower with microcement, keep in mind that you’ll need to seal the joint between surfaces with silicone to prevent water infiltration.
You can do it yourself
One of the biggest advantages of microcement showers is that you can apply them yourself using ready-to-use microcement. Don’t believe it? Keep reading — we’ll walk you through the full, easy step-by-step process for applying microcement in the shower.
How to make a microcement shower tray step by step
Did you think you’d have to hire a professional to coat your shower with microcement? You can—but it’s not always necessary. As we mentioned earlier, with Smartcret’s ready-to-use microcement, you can forget about that. The name says it all: ready to use. No mixing components, no pigments—everything comes prepared so you can tackle a proper DIY renovation. Just you, your hands, and the interactive application guide.
Keep reading carefully, because below we explain how to make a microcement shower tray step by step in a very simple way.
Step 1: Thoroughly clean the surface
The first step towards a beautiful, professional-looking finish is a solid base. This means removing any residue from the shower tray: water, soap, limescale, dust… You should also check that the drain is not blocked, as this could interfere with the application and affect the durability of the coating later on.
In addition, make sure there are no cracks or damage. If there are, they must be repaired so the microcement adheres properly. These tasks are essential to achieve a flawless microcement shower tray.
Step 2: Fill the joints, if there are any
Now it’s time to identify the type of shower tray you have, as the process will vary slightly depending on whether you’re applying microcement over a built-in shower tray made of absorbent materials like cement or concrete, or over a tray made of non-absorbent materials such as mosaic tiles or ceramic tiles.
In this specific step, joints come into play. If your shower tray is made of tiles or mosaic, those joints need to disappear. To do so, fill them with a product like Smart Jointer. This step paves the way for a smooth, seamless finish.
Step 3: Primer application
What we’re looking for now is a strong bond between the shower tray surface and the microcement. That’s why it’s so important to distinguish between absorbent and non-absorbent materials.
Absorbent materials—such as concrete, mortar or cement—require a specific primer. If your shower tray is made of any of these, apply Smart Primer ABS using a fibre roller and let it dry for 30 minutes.
If, on the other hand, your shower tray is made of tiles, mosaic, porcelain or ceramic, you’re dealing with a non-absorbent surface. In that case, use Smart Primer PLUS. Application is the same: fibre roller and 30 minutes of drying time.
Step 4: Time to apply the microcement
Now the fun begins. The previous steps were just the warm-up for the real DIY adventure: applying microcement to your shower tray yourself.
Start with the preparation microcement, Smart Base. Open the container, stir it well with a spatula, and apply a thin layer using a polyamide roller. Then smooth it with a trowel at a 45° angle, using arched movements in different directions. Let it dry for 6 hours, sand with 40-grit sandpaper, and apply a second layer following the same process.
Once the second layer of Smart Base is dry and sanded, it’s time to apply the finishing microcement, Smart Liso. The application method is exactly the same: apply a very thin layer, let it dry for 6 hours, and sand with 220-grit sandpaper.
To achieve the perfect result, repeat this process one or two more times, depending on whether the shower tray surface is absorbent or non-absorbent. Important: allow the surface to dry for 24 hours before moving on to the next step. Patience pays off.
Step 5: Sealing for protection
Sealing is like the top coat in a manicure or the setting spray in makeup—it’s the final step that ensures durability and protection. It’s what gives microcement its resistance to water.
Since a shower tray is constantly exposed to moisture, you’ll need to add an extra level of protection by mixing the sealing varnish with a component B such as Smart Booster. Once mixed, let it rest and apply three coats, allowing 4 hours of drying time between each coat. Remember to sand lightly between coats to achieve a smooth, even surface.
What are the key aspects when applying microcement in a shower?
At this point, you already know the advantages of a microcement shower and how to make it yourself DIY-style. But before you get started, we want to share a few practical tips that will help you avoid unpleasant surprises in your bathroom. Pay attention!
Seal the joints to prevent leaks
If you only apply microcement to the shower tray and decide not to coat the walls, it’s essential to properly seal the joints between both surfaces with silicone. This will prevent water leaks and future problems.
Walls or shower tray? What should be done first?
Going all in? Great. But before you start, you need to know the correct order. When applying microcement in a shower, walls always come first, and the shower tray comes afterwards.
Keep an eye on the drain
As mentioned in step 1 of the application process, the drain is a key element due to the slope. Conventional shower trays—and porcelain washbasins—are usually designed with the correct slope built in. However, in a built-in shower tray, this may or may not be the case. You must ensure that the drain has a slope of around 10% to prevent water and soap from accumulating and causing standing water.
Avoid standing water
Having the correct drain slope is essential, but it’s not the only factor. Standing water must be avoided at all costs. While a microcement shower is resistant to water, it is not resistant to stagnant water.
Standing water creates the perfect environment for bacteria, bad odours and stains. For this reason, regularly clean and unblock the drain to keep your shower spotless and looking like new.
Treat existing moisture before application
Out of sight, out of mind doesn’t work here. Thinking that microcement can hide untreated moisture is a serious mistake. Even if it seems covered at first, the problem will eventually reappear as stains.
If there is any existing moisture in your shower tray, it must be treated before applying microcement. Treated moisture means avoided stains.
Trowel trick: work at a 45° angle
If you’ve already applied microcement elsewhere, you’ll know this. But if your first time is in the shower, here’s a key professional tip.
When smoothing microcement—both base and finishing layers—use the trowel at a 45° angle, with arched movements and in all possible directions. This ensures a smoother, more uniform finish.
Avoid abrasive products and metal brushes
Microcement is very easy to clean. A damp sponge or cloth with pH-neutral soap is enough to keep it looking like new. For deeper cleaning, you can use a specific product such as Smart Cleaner, our high-concentration, eco-friendly and biodegradable cleaner.
What’s essential is to avoid abrasive products such as bleach or metal brushes, as they can scratch the surface and dull the finish.
Clean regularly
Even though microcement is durable, resistant and easy to clean, daily care is still important. Rinse away soap residue after each use to prevent limescale build-up, dry the surface with a cloth to avoid water marks, and once a week carry out a gentle cleaning with water and pH-neutral soap.
Renew the sealing varnish
Over time and with frequent use, the microcement in your shower may lose some of its original shine. To prevent this, Smartcret recommends renewing the sealing product every two to three years, depending on usage.
This will restore the shine, improve water resistance, prevent stains and extend the lifespan of your microcement shower.
6 DIY microcement shower makeovers by Smartcret with serious “wow” factor
Art is born in a corner of the mind and ends up expressing itself in countless ways. And when it comes to home renovations, it’s no different. A microcement shower offers endless possibilities for transformation, and proof of that can be found in the projects of some of our Smartlovers. Some were created using kits for built-in showers, others with kits designed for tiled showers, depending on the type of surface and the desired result.
Get ready to swipe right (trust us, you’ll fall head over heels for more than one).
1. Cloud-white tones for a shower that takes you to heaven
A shower straight out of Eden, don’t you think? Smooth, seamless lines in an off-white shade (this year’s colour trend) that wrap you in clouds of steam every time you step inside. Microcement applied to both the walls and the shower tray creates a pure, heavenly experience.
2. Shower walls that invite you in for a hug
The shower is the place you long for after a tough day—the moment when warm water hits your shoulders and all the tension melts away. Bone-coloured microcement shower walls, like those in our Smartlover’s project, invite you in… and make you never want to leave, letting your mind drift from one daydream to another.
3. The warmth of spiced tones in your shower
Imagining the creamy warmth of a chai latte while showering is an experience that transports you to exotic places and invites deep relaxation. If you love intense flavours and spiced nuances, coating your shower walls with microcement in the shade India is the perfect way to relive those sensations every single day.
4. Beige shower tray: a serene neutral that brings harmony to your bathroom
Choosing a microcement shower tray is always a safe bet. And if you pair it with the softness and warmth of a neutral tone like beige, you’ll transform your bathroom into a calm, harmonious space. Versatile, stylish and timeless—what’s not to love?
5. Colour balance in your shower for effortless elegance
Sticking to a colour palette within the same chromatic family is a winning choice to enhance the beauty of a spacious bathroom like this one. Neutral tones on the shower walls and tray blend perfectly with the rest of the elements, adding warmth, balance and elegance without sacrificing the feeling of openness.
6. Warm neutrals for a sophisticated shower
Sophistication is often associated with coldness—but it doesn’t have to be. A shower can be both refined and warmly inviting. This Smartlover proves it by combining light tones on the shower tray and walls, enhanced by lighting and contrasting textures, resulting in a truly stunning space.
5 ideas to decorate a microcement shower and show it off
Now that you’ve decided to use microcement in your shower and you know how to do it yourself, it’s time for a little inspiration. Minimal and modern, rustic and cosy, Mediterranean with summery vibes, warm and sophisticated, with straight lines or soft curves… microcement showers are so versatile that they adapt to any interior design style, making them a perfect choice for bathrooms.
Below, we share 5 inspiring ideas to bring different decorative styles into your bathroom. Ready to scroll? Let’s go.
1. Mediterranean-style microcement shower
A space filled with natural light, enhancing the warm tones of Mediterranean sand, full of arches and soft, flowing shapes that recall the voluptuous beauty of Roman art. Can you picture it?
2. The charm of industrial style in a shower
It evokes the beauty of imperfection: raw, yet full of character. A space where functionality and unfinished aesthetics coexist in harmony. What does an industrial-style microcement shower make you feel?
3. Hammam-style spa shower without leaving home
Can you imagine an oasis of disconnection in your own home? A hammam-style microcement shower is exactly that—a holistic experience where relaxation and meditation come naturally.
4. Japandi style with a microcement shower
Simple, functional and beautifully minimalist. A Japandi-style bathroom with an integrated microcement shower becomes the path to calm after the chaos of the city.
5. A rustic shower to reconnect with nature
If you love the serenity of the mountains, bring it into your bathroom with a rustic-style microcement shower. Natural materials and earthy tones help you reconnect with the roots of the land—a pause for the soul.
Is a microcement shower worth it?
- Versatile aesthetics and design
- Full customisation
- Easy cleaning and antibacterial surface
- Anti-slip finish
- Highly resistant to water and high temperatures
- Durable and impact-resistant
- Minimises dirt build-up thanks to its seamless finish
- Can be installed DIY
- Treat any existing damp issues beforehand
- Ensure the correct drain slope
- Clean regularly
- Avoid abrasive products
What are the most frequently asked questions about microcement showers?
Do you still have some questions? Just in case, here we answer the most frequently asked questions about microcement showers.
Can microcement be used in the shower?
Yes, microcement can be applied both on shower walls and on the shower tray.
How do you clean a microcement shower?
Using pH-neutral soap and a damp cloth is enough. For deeper cleaning, there are specific products designed for microcement.
When can I start cleaning a microcement shower after installation?
After seven days, the sealer will be completely dry and you can clean it using only water. After two weeks, you can also use pH-neutral soap.
Will moisture or damp appear on my microcement shower?
It shouldn’t, unless the microcement hasn’t been properly sealed or existing damp issues weren’t treated before application.
When can I start using the shower after applying microcement?
You can shower once the sealer is completely dry, which is usually 7 days after installation.
Can microcement be applied over existing shower tiles?
Yes, there is no need to remove the tiles as long as they are well bonded and in good condition. Ready-to-use microcement can be applied directly over them.
Can I make a built-in microcement shower tray?
Yes, you can coat a built-in shower tray with microcement with full guarantees.
Can microcement be applied to both the walls and the shower floor at the same time?
Yes, but you must follow the correct order: first the walls, then the shower tray. The joints between surfaces must also be sealed to prevent water leaks.
Can a microcement shower be installed outdoors, for example in a garden?
Yes. If the microcement system is suitable for outdoor use, it can be applied, taking drainage into account during installation.
What happens if microcement gets wet in the shower?
Nothing at all. Microcement is water-resistant. However, stagnant water should be avoided, as it can cause stains.
How is a microcement shower made?
In just five simple steps:
- Surface cleaning
- Filling the joints (if any)
- Applying the primer
- Applying the microcement
- Sealing and protecting with varnish
How much does a microcement shower cost?
In 2026, microcement prices range from €60 to €100 per m², so a microcement shower typically costs between €160 and €700, excluding labour and possible surface repairs.
With Smartcret ready-to-use microcement kits, the price is fixed according to the square metres to be renovated, with no surprises.
How long does microcement last in a shower?
Microcement is a durable coating that withstands daily use. In a shower, it can last for many years with gentle cleaning and basic maintenance. To extend its lifespan, it’s recommended to renew the sealer every two to three years, depending on usage.