Is there anything worse than shaving with cold or lukewarm water? Yeah, we don’t think so either. Enter: the shaving bowl. The best shaving bowl will keep your water warm and your soap lathered, to ensure that comfortable, smooth shave – no cuts allowed.
In a hurry? Start with our top three shaving bowl picks.
Our Top Pick
The perfect combination of stylish and functional, the SHASH marble shaving bowl gives you the closest shave with maximum comfort for a budget price. Grooved insides help retain the heat, so your lather stays at a constant temperature until you’re done shaving.
Runner Up
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10 Best Shaving Bowls for Men
Here’s a complete round-up of the ten best shaving mugs and bowls on the market today.
1. Best Overall: SHASH Marble Shaving Bowl
From its color offerings to the not-just-for-show grooves, the SHASH marble shaving bowl is a sight to behold. This all-natural product features the telltale two-tone aesthetic all marble has, providing its authenticity. The high quality of this bowl ensures it’ll outlast any other shaving bowl you choose.
With the interior grooves, mixing up a lather is quick and easy. Smaller shaving bowls make it hard to get the right combination of soap and water, leaving your lather weak. But the SHASH gives you the proper space to get a thicker lather in no time.
Like all the best shaving mugs, this bowl retains heat to keep your face happy. Warmer lather means a more comfortable shave and softer skin. What better way to start your day with a little pampering?
A few other features:
- Authentic marble is crack-resistant.
- Size lets you move your shaving brush freely.
- The bowl fits in your hand for better control.
This shaving mug is perfect for beginners and veterans alike.
2. Best for Clean Freaks: Kingsley Dark Wood Shaving Bowl
If you like keeping your bathroom neat and tidy, this is the bowl for you. Shave bowls with lids can hold leftover lather without contamination. It’s also an ideal place to store your shaving soap. The lid keeps out germs and dust, and from the outside, it looks like a small, sleek container on your counter.
The Kingsley features a wide opening so you can easily mix lather without hitting your knuckles on the edge. Though a shallower bowl, it comfortably fits in your hand. The smooth surface feels pretty nice to hold, too.
One of the least expensive models, the Kingsley shaving bowl is under $15. If you’re looking for a wallet-friendly upgrade or maybe just a new functional, stylish addition to your shaving routine then this is the best lather bowl for you.
Pros:
- Natural material prevents mold.
- The compact design gives you plenty of counter space.
Cons:
- On the smaller side, and may not be suitable for larger shaving brushes.
The Kingsley is great if you’re on a budget and want something high-quality. We love it for its cleanliness and user-friendly lid.
3. Best for Clumsy Shavers: Vikings Blade The Chairman Luxury Shaving Bowl
Did we choose this because the maker is called Vikings Blade? Maybe.
The Chairman is a heavy stainless steel shaving bowl designed to give you the thickest lather possible. It also has some really unique features you won’t find with other bowls.
Small enough to be compact and easily held, this bowl has a deep interior to help keep your lather in the bottom where it belongs.
The stainless steel is resistant to water damage and scratches, making its durability and stylish look a top contender for shave bowls everywhere.
Pros:
- Two sizes, so you can use any shaving puck.
- Stainless steel ensures longevity.
- Frosted steel you won’t find anywhere else.
- The weight prevents it from tilting or falling out of your hands.
Cons:
- The lip of the bowl can cause overflow.
The Chairman is a rugged shaving mug that will give you the best lather of your life.
4. Best for Those Who Love Luxury: The Art of Shaving Shaving Soap and Bowl Set
This shaving bowl comes with a puck of the best shaving soap so you can get started right away. Not only is the bowl a luxurious find, but the soap itself uses essential oils and other eco-friendly substances to leave you smelling and feeling great.
The teak bowl is resistant to mildew or water damage, and the exterior features indents to help your fingers grip the sides. The soap provides a thick and frothy lather and leaves you smelling like you’ve spent the morning working with sandalwood.
The Art of Shaving bowl is bound to make you feel like a million bucks.
Pros:
- The bowl comes with decadent sandalwood soap.
- Bowl is premium wood, making it less likely to break.
- Eco-friendly refillable shaving mug.
Cons:
- The price is steeper than other options at $50.
- No option to not include the soap
This shaving mug will make you feel like an Old Hollywood movie star. Bring on that luxury.
5. Best for Beginners: Fendrihan Apothecary Shaving Mug
Wet shaving can seem strenuous if you’ve always been a dry shaver. Fendrihan’s apothecary mug can make the transition much easier.
Ceramic and sturdy, this mug’s thick walls help retain heat for a warmer shave. The handle will make it obvious that it’s for only one thing; shaving, so you don’t have to worry about someone mistaking it for a coffee cup.
Because of its high-quality make and design, we love this mug for beginners.
Pros:
- Handle makes it easy to hold the mug.
- Ceramic keeps water warm much longer than steel or wood.
- A wide lip and short sides fit every brush.
Cons:
- The short sides may be annoying if you need a lot of product.
The Essential Apothecary shave bowl is a strong contender on your wishlist if you want to start shaving wet.
6. Best for Keeping it Simple: Akstore Durable Shave Soap Cup
If frills aren’t your thing, the Akstore shave cup is all yours. Made from polished stainless steel, it’s durable, resistant to most damage, and it works. What more do you need?
A double-layer design keeps in the heat, while any edges or corners are carefully graded for maximum comfort in your hand. Plus, this shiny little mug is under $10, so it won’t break the bank.
Pros:
- The bottom has texture to prevent skidding.
- Easy to clean material.
- Available in small and medium for all shaving pucks.
Cons:
As a bare-bones shaving bowl, this does the trick. Your water will be warm, and your shave will be smooth!
7. Best for Innovators: QSHAVE Shaving Scuttle Mug
Don’t let the delicate exterior push you away. The number of features on the QSHAVE scuttle mug is vast. Unlike other shaving bowls where you just mix your lather and go, the QSHAVE has an interior layer to pour in hot water, separate from your soap or shaving cream. This layer helps insulate your lather and maintains its temperature even if your shaving goes into overtime.
Truly, the QSHAVE goes above and beyond the typical shaving mug design.
Pros:
- The ridged design keeps your lather hot.
- Silicone cork prevents steam from escaping.
- The grip handle keeps you balanced.
Cons:
- Matte black color fades if you have hard water.
- Using water that’s too hot may cause the bottom to crack.
The QSHAVE is unique and will give your shave a brand-new, innovative feel.
8. Best Looking: Parker Ox Horn Shave Bowl
The patterns of the ox horn mixed with the shine of the bowl are beautiful, so if you’re a sucker for aesthetics, you’ll love this shaving bowl. It even has an extra-wide mouth, making it easier than ever to whip up the right amount of lather. More than that, the ox horn makes it a long-lasting investment for your best-looking bathroom counter, and face!
Pros:
- Palm-sized for precise use.
- Every bowl is different because each horn used has a different pattern.
- A polished finish makes the bowl durable.
Cons:
- You have to hold this bowl for the duration of your shave.
Holding this up could get a bit annoying after a while, but if you think you can get over that, this bowl is a stylish choice for your shaving routine.
9. Best for Non-Morning People: SHAVEBOWL Modular Shaving Bowl
We can all agree that mornings are not the greatest. If you’re groggy in the AM, everything you need will be right in front of you, no need to root around the bathroom.
The bottom and top are separate pieces that allow you to hide soap in the bottom half when not in use. The top has a razor and brush stand to hang your shaving tools. When stacked, both halves create a tidy little bowl with all your shaving elements together in harmony.
Ideal for minimalist bathrooms, traveling or tidying up when your mom comes to visit, your morning routine just got that much easier.
Pros:
- You can store everything in one cup.
- Made of 100% renewable materials.
- Micro-texture ensures lather.
Cons:
- Not ideal for those who only use a brush or razor.
If you find yourself stumbling to the bathroom counter every morning, the SHAVEBOWL mug is here to save the day.
10. Best Aesthetic: Wolfland Vintage Design Pottery Shave Bowl
You were wet shaving before it was cool, right? If you want to up your game, this handmade, authentic shaving bowl can get you there.
Due to the nature of handmade manufacturing, no two of Wolfland’s shaving bowls are the same. These unique, masculine shaving bowls will give you just the right edge to master your look. They’re sturdy and durable, too. Your shaving bowl will be the envy of your fellow beard aficionados.
Pros:
- Textured finish reduces slip.
- Dishwasher safe.
- Handmade pottery means each bowl is different.
Cons:
- It’s not as deep as some shaving mugs.
- You will have to hold the bowl while you lather.
If you like vintage finds, this bowl is a top pick. We especially love the molding patterns.
The Best Shaving Bowl Buying Considerations
Are you wondering what to look for in a shaving mug? Below are some tips for finding your best match.
Materials
Shaving bowls are ceramic, stainless steel, marble, or wood. Each material comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. Knowing which benefits are most important to you can help determine which bowl to choose.
Ceramic
Ceramic is the most popular material for shaving mugs for plenty of reasons. They’re easy to clean and not too heavy. Plus they can withstand water exposure. Other materials might accrue water damage or even mold over time, but ceramic bowls do neither.
The main downside for ceramic is: it’s breakable. Any accidental jostling and your shaving mug will end up on the floor in pieces.
Stainless Steel
Like ceramic, stainless steel shaving bowls are easy to clean. Even better, it can keep your bowl rust-free, unlike other metal alternatives. So no matter how much you shave, there’s no risk of damage from all the water. Plus, steel is challenging to break, making these kinds of shaving bowls more durable than ceramic ones.
The problem with stainless steel is that these bowls don’t retain heat well. Your shaving lather will probably end up a lot colder and more uncomfortable if you take your time than with a bowl of a different material.
Marble
Marble is more expensive than ceramic but also more durable. If you knock your marble shaving mug off a counter it’s more likely to bounce, rather than chip or smash. This resiliency, plus the fact that it retains heat as well as ceramic, makes marble a top contender in shaving bowl materials.
Wood
Wooden bowls hold up against water damage because they repel moisture. This makes them durable against mold and mildew, so you never have to worry about putting gross bacteria on your face. Wood also won’t shatter like ceramic mugs, making them a more durable choice.
Design
The design of your shaving bowl should reflect your lifestyle. It might sound cliche, but it’s true. How your shaving bowl functions should be how you function too.
When looking for a shaving bowl, consider design elements like a bowl versus a mug with a handle, and any added features like a lid or a place to hang your men’s razors.
The shaving mug caters to your needs and habits, so it’s essential to get one that’s most practical for your grooming routine.
Bowl Size
If you use a brush, you’ll need a deep bowl with a wide lip. A bigger sized bowl will make it easier to mix your lather without whacking your knuckles on the walls. Steeper sides and more depth will keep the lather in the bottom of the bowl so it can’t escape over the side.
A smaller bowl will be better for men who don’t use a brush, bathroom space is an issue or if you plan on traveling with your shaving bowl.
Grip or Handle
A grip or handle on a shaving mug is a lifesaver if you need more control. If you have notoriously slippery fingers, you could accidentally knock your shaving mug out of your own hand when you’re mixing lather. No one wants that.
Alternatively, some people find a grip on the bottom of the bowl to be a more space-saving option since it won’t stick out over your sink.
FAQs About The Best Shaving Bowls
Below are some common concerns from fellow shavers.
Do I Need a Shaving Bowl?
Trying something new and indulging in your grooming or detailed manscaping routine is never a bad idea. Building a luxurious shave kit will help you feel your best every day. Just be sure to pair your bowl with the best shaving brush and you’ll be ready to go.
How Do I Use a Shaving Bowl?
Step 1: Wet your brush.
Step 2: Apply shaving cream to your shaving brush.
Step 3: Swirl your brush around the bowl at an angle.
Step 4: Adjust the lather consistency with water.
What is the Best Wood for a Shaving Bowl?
There is no preferred wood for shaving mugs. Oak is the most commonly used since it’s durable and easy to find.
Benefits of Using The Best Shaving Bowl (For You)
Maybe you think that a shaving bowl is a useless extravagance, and that’s why you haven’t looked into getting one yet. It’s true, shaving bowls aren’t every man’s game. But the best shaving bowls are much more than fancy mugs that hold shaving cream and .
They have several benefits, like allowing you to control the quantity and consistency of your lather, and keeping it nice and warm for a comfortable shaving experience. Shaving bowls lead to less of a mess and virtually no cleanup, all while saving you time and soap.
A shaving bowl is worth purchasing if you’re considering wet shaving, it also makes for a great grooming gift if your hesitant to buy it for yourself. Your facial hair will thank you – and so will your skin. Plus, what man doesn’t want to start his day with a barber-quality shave.