Yes — but only in certain situations, and not all methods are recommended for permanent use.
Whether you can attach a shower head to a bathtub faucet depends on how the bathtub faucet is designed and how you plan to use the shower.

Below is a clear breakdown of what works, what doesn’t, and what’s code-compliant.

Methods That DO Work

1. Bathtub Faucet with a Built-In Diverter (Best Option)

This is the correct and intended method.

• The tub spout includes a diverter (pull-up or push-button)

• Water is redirected upward to a shower riser

• A fixed or handHeld Shower head is installed

Result

• Proper water pressure

• Safe temperature control

• Code-compliant for permanent installations

This is how standard tub-and-shower systems are designed.

2. Add-On Tub Spout Shower Attachment (Temporary Solution)

These are aftermarket kits that attach directly to the tub spout.

• Rubber or threaded adapter fits over the spout

• Flexible hose connects to a handHeld Shower head

• No wall plumbing changes required

Limitations

• Lower pressure

• Can leak or pop off

• Often not code-compliant for permanent use

• Best for temporary or rental situations

3. Exposed Riser Kit (Retrofit Option)

Used when opening the wall isn’t possible.

• Tub spout with diverter

• External riser pipe mounted on the wall

• Shower head attached at the top

Pros

• No wall demolition

• More secure than hose-only attachments

Cons

• Exposed plumbing

• Industrial or utilitarian appearance

Methods That Do NOT Work Well

Attaching a Shower Head Directly to a Plain Tub Spout

• Standard tub spouts are not designed for upward flow

• No diverter = no pressure redirection

• Risk of leaks and water spraying unpredictably

This is unsafe and unreliable.

Important Safety & Code Considerations

• Showers typically require pressure-balance or thermostatic valves

• Tub-only valves often do not provide anti-scald protection

• Permanent shower installations without proper valves may violate code

If the shower will be used regularly, upgrading the valve is strongly recommended.

Quick Decision Guide

Summary

You can attach a shower head to a bathtub faucet only if:

• The faucet has a diverter designed for shower use, or

• You use a temporary add-on attachment with limitations

For safe, long-term, and code-compliant use, the correct solution is a tub-and-shower mixing valve with a diverter and proper shower riser.