If you’re a fan of indulgently long showers but conscious of wasting water, RainStick might be your guilt-free shower solution. This cutting-edge shower system captures, cleans, and recycles shower water, maintaining a lavish showering experience while using 80% less water and energy than standard low-flow fixtures.

What Is a Recirculating Shower and How Does it Work?

The RainStick system operates through a three-stage cleaning process. First, a micron screen filters out hair, sand, and other debris. Next, the water undergoes an intense UV-light sanitizing treatment designed to kill viruses and bacteria. Finally, a tiny amount of fresh hot water is introduced to maintain a comfortable temperature.

According to the manufacturer, each drop of water is reused an impressive six times, and while a traditional 10-minute shower guzzles about 26 gal. of water, a RainStick shower sips less than 5 gal. RainStick also offers a standard shower mode, and it has Wi-Fi–enabled features that let you know how much water you’ve saved and that will alert you when you are running low on the soap solution used to clean the recirculating shower system between showers.

RainStick does require electrical wiring due to its integrated pump system and specific locations for the drain and waterlines, so it is best suited for new construction or complete bathroom remodels. At $4995, RainStick is not likely to pay for itself in reduced water bills, but it is a clear winner in terms of environmental impact. Find out more at rainstickshower.com.

— Fernando Pagés Ruiz, a builder and ICC-certified residential building inspector

From Fine Homebuilding #326

RELATED STORIES

• Three Ways to Waterproof Tile Showers
• Hot Water Recirculation Systems: How They Work
• One Bathroom, Three Ways

Fine Homebuilding Recommended Products

Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

8067 All-Weather Flashing Tape

Available in 2- to 12-in. widths, this is a good general-purpose flashing tape that sticks well to most things. It features a two-piece release paper, water-shedding layers, and good UV resistance.

Buy at Amazon

Handy Heat Gun

This heat gun is great for drying joint compound, primer and paint when patching drywall and plaster walls. Plus it can soften adhesive, get a very cold small engine to start, and shrink heat-shrink tubing.

Buy at Amazon

Affordable IR Camera

This camera is super useful for tracking down air leaks in buildings. The one-hand pistol grip arrangement frees your other hand for steadying yourself while maneuvering tricky job sites.

Buy at Amazon