To make the most worthwhile purchase, you should know everything from the key features to look for to designs and fabric choices. The following components of this guide will help you buy the best shower curtain in no time!
Why do we need shower curtains?
Whether you have a standalone shower or one with a bathtub, installing shower curtains has several advantages:
Give your bathroom a modern look
Installing something as simple as a bathroom shower curtain goes a long way in bringing an almost dead bathroom back to life. There are various prints, from bright colors to floral designs and even the periodic table. You can always opt for a solid color, too, in order to add a bit of style to your space.
Adds privacy
Shared bathrooms are sometimes used by more than one person at a time. Adding a shower curtain will allow you to maintain privacy while the other person uses other bathroom facilities. You also don't want to be completely exposed while in the shower, so having a shower curtain to divide the bathroom space is nice.
Prevents bathroom falls
Water splashes are one of the main reasons for bathroom falls. With slippery tile, you may lose your footing as you step out of the shower. These injuries are not just annoying but can even cause severe injuries like strains or even fractures. Shower curtains add a barrier between other parts of the bathroom and shower section, so you don't have to worry about the entire space getting wet while you shower. By keeping the water inside the shower only, you keep the rest of your bathroom safe, clean, and dry.
What are things to consider when buying the best shower curtains?
Here is a comprehensive list of things you need to keep in mind when picking a new shower curtain for your bathroom:
Size
Most shower curtains come in dimensions of 72 x 72 inches. The curtain is supposed to touch the floor while covering the entire portion of your tub. However, this may not be the correct ratio if you have a customized shower. To get an estimate, simply take a measuring tape and measure the height and width till the end of your shower.
Add an extra 3 inches for hooks, and make sure that the width is 12 inches away from the shower. Now, most good companies offer multiple sizes to accommodate all shower types, but opt for a custom stitch if you are unable to find anything. But, you really should be able to find a dimension that suits your bathroom.
Fabric
Usually, shower curtains are made from polyester and cotton. The fabric may seem irrelevant, but it does impact the overall look and the quality of the product. Vinyl curtains are a popular option among people who want water-repellent curtains. On the other hand, cotton shower curtains offer excellent aesthetics. Plastic or vinyl curtains can look cheap, while other higher-quality fabrics can really take your space up a notch.
Print
From solid colors to ombre and gorgeous prints, there are plenty of options available on the market. If you want something delicate, go for light solids or a soft, subtle design. Big, bold prints, on the other hand, can instantly bring life to your bathroom.
Anti-Bacterial
Bathrooms are home to bacteria and germs. When picking a shower curtain, look for products that come with an anti-mildew and anti-bacterial coating. This will help you prevent the curtains from mold, germs, and fungal growth. Other than that, it will also keep your bathroom clean without much effort.
Liner
Fabric-based shower curtains like cotton and silk require a liner as they tend to absorb water. On the other hand, polyester vinyl curtains usually come with a water beading coating that, instead of causing splashes, retains water in tiny beads. Hence, a liner is not necessarily needed. However, a liner can help increase the life of your shower curtain, as it is more cost-efficient to replace a liner instead of a new curtain.
What materials are shower curtains made of?
Shower curtains are available in a variety of materials. Whatever you choose has an impact on the style and safety of your bathroom. Here are the most commonly used materials for shower curtains.
Polyester
Polyester is used in the majority of curtains because of its water-repellent properties. Polyester is known for its durability, quick-dry properties, convenient cleaning, and longevity, making it a top contender in shower curtains. Moreover, polyester curtains are available in many eye-catching designs, giving you the perfect opportunity to choose something stunning. While most polyester curtains repel water, it is recommended that you check labels or product descriptions before picking one.
Vinyl
Vinyl curtains are a top option for those who are looking for something reasonably priced. Despite being low maintenance and affordable, vinyl curtains are incredibly resistant to water and ensure maximum protection. However, they do not give the soft fabric finishing that most of us look for when choosing a shower curtain. Vinyl curtains may look cheaper compared to alternatives, and may not make your bathroom look as sophisticated or elegant.
Cotton
Although a more expensive option, cotton is a good material for a long-lasting and reliable shower curtain. They are among the most reliable and easy to wash fabrics that leave your bathroom looking more luxurious and easy on the eye.
Due to the quality of the material, the colors don't fade and the curtains don't retain any foul odors. Cotton is exceptionally breathable but quickly absorbs water, so make sure to purchase a high-quality liner to maintain the quality of your product.
What additional accessories are required to install a shower curtain?
The following are the different things you may need to install if your bathroom hasn’t been equipped with a shower curtain before.
Shower rod
To install the shower curtain successfully, you need the right rod. From copper to bronze to plain metal, there are plenty of materials to choose from. Furthermore, you need to buy one that can bear the weight of the curtain. For instance, vinyl curtains can be hung on a light rod, but you may need something heavier for polyester shower rods. Some of the most common types of shower rods are:
- Curved/straight adjustable shower curtain rods
- Fixed single curved/straight shower curtain rods
- Tension double curved shower curtain rods
- Tension single straight shower curtain rods
Shower curtain rings
Pretty much all shower curtains require rings, so they come with buttonholes that allow you to insert rings to hang on the rod. The type of rings or hooks you choose is an often underrated accessory, but picking the correct item does make a notable change in your bathroom's overall look. Plastic is an affordable option, but metal rings look more sophisticated or modern. The following are the most common types of shower curtain rings:
- Classic ring/hook
- Rings/hooks with roller glides
- Hook with clip
- Hook with stopper
- Hook with ornament
- Ring and hook combination
Final Thoughts
Besides providing your bathroom a modern look, shower curtains add a layer of security by preventing water splashes during showers. There are different types of shower curtains available on the market, each with unique characteristics.
To pick the best shower curtain in 2021, make sure to understand each fabric's characteristics and the benefits of installing one. You may need additional accessories if you have never installed one before. We hope our buying guide helped you gain sufficient, appropriate knowledge and a clear idea of what you want.
Shower Curtain FAQ
Q: How often should shower curtains be washed?
A: It depends on the type of fabric. Cotton shower curtains should be washed monthly, while polyester curtains can last up to 6 months without washing. On the other hand, vinyl shower curtains do not need a machine wash at all.
Q: Are shower curtains difficult to iron?
A: Polyester shower curtains do not really need ironing, but you may want to steam iron the cotton ones to get any creases or wrinkles out.
Q: Do shower curtains shrink after cleaning?
A: Dry cleaning may cause shower curtains to shrink because they use a chemical solvent to clean your product. Or, if the curtain is made of 100% cotton and you put it in the tumble dryer, it may shrink a bit too.