Nearly a quarter of Americans pee in the shower on a regular basis, according to new research.

A survey of 2,000 general population Americans revealed that 12% do so daily while another 12% tinkle in their sprinkle a few times every week.

One-quarter of millennials even indicated peeing in the shower is a daily practice, compared to just 13% of Gen X and 6% of baby boomers.

By gender, 30% of men do so regularly, along with 20% of women, according to the survey conducted by Talker Research.

In total, 45% of Americans pee in the shower throughout the course of the average year.

Clint Kreider, a licensed marriage and family therapist at Still Water Wellness Group, delves into the psychological aspects of a practice that some might view as controversial.

“Peeing in the shower often reflects our modern obsession with multitasking—even in moments meant for relaxation,” said Kreider.

For some people, engaging in this practice can be seen as a playful defiance of societal norms, while for others, it’s simply a matter of practicality. Why waste time when you’re already in the shower, right? However, it’s important to also consider the underlying symbolism at play here: the shower is often one of the few places where we can be completely alone with our thoughts. If having a quick bathroom break in the shower brings a sense of freedom, then go for it — just maybe don’t turn it into a public speaking engagement.

Our habits in private spaces can often reflect how we deal with stress in our lives. If the act of peeing in the shower becomes a compulsive behavior driven by a need to ‘optimize’ every single second, it could be a sign of deeper anxieties related to time constraints. Additionally, for women, pelvic floor therapists caution against hovering or ‘pushing’ while using the restroom in the shower, as it could lead to unnecessary muscle tension. This cautionary advice can also be viewed metaphorically: trying to force something, even something as natural as urination, under pressure typically doesn’t yield positive results.

Only 39% indicated that they’re the sole user of their shower.

Two in five (41%) share with their partner, while 18% share it with their children.

And for all the use that it gets, results found that the average American only cleans their shower nine times per year.

On top of urinating, Americans also sing (27%), plan for the day ahead (23%) and reflect on the previous day (19%) while in the shower. 

Almost one in four millennials (23%) even find themselves thinking about work or crying (15%).

Results also found that Americans believe the average shower should only take 13 minutes.

Perhaps to leave time for bathing on top of peeing, singing, reflecting and crying, the average millennial believes a shower should take a total of 17 minutes.

“If you’re going to go rogue, rinse thoroughly. Mentally, though, consider this: What other tiny, guilt-free joys can you reclaim in daily rituals? Maybe it’s singing off-key or daydreaming. The shower’s steam offers a blank slate — use it to wash away more than just soap,” said Kreider. 

“Life’s too short to police your pee. Just aim wisely, laugh often and remember—the best self-care is whatever lets you step out of the shower feeling lighter.”

Survey methodology:

Talker Research surveyed 2,000 general population Americans; the survey was administered and conducted online by Talker Research between Feb. 7 and Feb. 10, 2025.