When the summer heat becomes unbearable, a DIY outdoor cooling shower is a perfect way to refresh yourself. This project is simple, fun, and incredibly effective on a hot day.
Best of all, it’s budget-friendly—many of the materials can be found for free at local dumps or repurposed from household items. In just a few steps, you can create your own pressurized outdoor shower that’s perfect for cooling off after a long day.
Why This DIY Cooling Shower Works
- Low-cost project – Most materials can be found for free or at minimal cost.
- Eco-friendly – Repurposes old materials, reducing waste.
- Portable and easy to assemble – No plumbing is required, making it ideal for camping, outdoor events, or backyard use.
- Pressurized water flow – Uses a hand pump to provide a steady stream of water.
- Perfect summer project – Great for both kids and adults who enjoy DIY builds.
What You Will Need
- A plastic barrel (25 gallons or less)
- A hand pump (repurposed from an old lawn sprayer)
- A plumbing cap
- PVC pipes and fittings:
- One 90-degree PVC pipe (1 inch diameter)
- One 45-degree PVC pipe (1 inch diameter)
- One six-foot-long 1-inch PVC pipe
- PVC cleaner and glue
- A metal hole saw (1 inch) or large drill bit
- An old vacuum hose and string (for the shower head)
How to Make Your DIY Outdoor Cooling Shower
Step 1: Prepare the Plastic Barrel
Before anything else, find or purchase a plastic barrel that holds 25 gallons or less. Clean the barrel thoroughly to remove any dirt, chemicals, or residues. This will ensure your shower water remains safe and free from contamination.
Step 2: Install the Pump and Cap
If you have an old lawn sprayer, remove its hand pump. Most plastic barrels have pre-existing holes designed for screw-in fittings. Attach the pump to one of these holes, ensuring an airtight seal to maintain water pressure. If your barrel has a second hole, cover it securely with a plumbing cap to prevent leaks.
Step 3: Assemble the PVC Pipe for the Shower
To create the shower stand, use:
- One 90-degree PVC pipe
- One 45-degree PVC pipe
- One six-foot-long 1-inch PVC pipe
These pipes will run along the side of the barrel, with the end positioned above your head. Before assembling, clean all PVC connections with PVC cleaner, then apply PVC glue to create a leak-free seal.
Step 4: Cut a Hole in the Barrel for the Pipe
Using a 1-inch metal hole saw or a large drill bit, carefully cut a hole in the side of the barrel where the PVC pipe will be inserted. The hole must be snug to prevent leaks. After inserting the pipe, apply multiple layers of PVC glue to secure the connection and create a watertight seal.
Step 5: Connect the Pipes Securely
Now, assemble all the PVC pipe fittings to construct the shower stand. Before joining, use PVC pipe cleaner to remove any residue from the connection points. Apply PVC glue generously to prevent leaks and ensure a strong hold. Allow the glue to dry completely before testing.
Step 6: Create the Shower Head
For the shower head, a simple and effective solution is to use an old vacuum hose and string. Attach the hose to the top of the PVC pipe and secure it so that water flows downward when pumped. When you use the hand pump, water will be pushed through the hose, creating a steady stream.
Note: Since this system relies on manual pumping, you will need to pump the water while using the shower. However, the pump is easy to operate and requires minimal effort.
Other Details to Consider
- Water Source: You can fill the barrel with rainwater or manually add water using a hose or bucket.
- Placement: Position the shower in a sunny spot to naturally warm the water for a more comfortable experience.
- Sealing: If leaks occur, apply additional layers of PVC glue and allow it to dry completely before retesting.
- Customization: Consider adding a small platform or foot mat to keep feet clean while showering.
Summary
A DIY outdoor cooling shower is an easy, budget-friendly, and eco-friendly way to beat the summer heat. By using a plastic barrel, PVC pipes, and a simple hand pump, you can create a pressurized shower system perfect for backyard fun or outdoor adventures. Whether for post-yardwork refreshment, camping, or just an enjoyable summer project, this DIY build is an excellent way to stay cool in hot weather!
This plan is a contribution by [henrymcgrw]. Project Via Instructables – Get the PDF Instructions here.