Yes, fabric shower curtains need a liner to reduce your exposure to mold, mildew, and bacteria. However, there are 3 exceptions: You wax your fabric shower curtain to make it naturally waterproof.
Obviously, stay away from plastic shower curtains, including plastic-derived fabrics such as polyester, nylon, and microfiber. These synthetics can cause as much environmental damage as vinyl, especially when laundered.
Yes, any fabric shower curtain will need a liner if it is truly fabric. I buy a liner from BB&B and replace it from time to time. I always look for one that says mold resistant. Be sure the holes for the rings have grommets in them not just a slit, which will tear.
The best fabrics for shower curtains include polyester, cotton, and linen. Polyester is durable, water-resistant, and easy to maintain, making it a popular choice.
You will, most likely, only need a liner if you have a cotton shower curtain, as cotton absorbs moisture more than the other materials mentioned. Most liners are made out of vinyl which naturally repels water. Weighted liners are also good to have, as they stay in place more easily.
Shower curtains typically hang outside of the bathtub and are used for privacy and style. They're often made of fabric that absorbs (rather than repels) water, meaning they're not waterproof and take longer to dry. Shower liners protect your bathroom and stop water in its tracks.
We recommend: Stay away from PVC or Vinyl shower curtain liners.
Shower curtains are made from PVC, (Polyvinyl Chloride).
Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives to shower curtains, from glass shower enclosures to bath screens and shower blinds. Discover six of the best ideas here to find the right option for your bathroom.
Shower Curtains & Shower Curtain Liners: Every 6 Months
If you have a plastic shower curtain liner, it's easy to see when mold, mildew, or other buildup has accumulated. You can wash it with a diluted bleach solution and a sponge, throw it in the washing machine (hang to dry), or just toss it and purchase a new one.
Cotton Believe it or not, there are also cotton shower curtain liners that do help keep shower water in the shower. (They're heavyweight, made of cotton duck.) Easily washable, cotton is another great option for avoiding plastics.
Because of their function, shower curtain liners are often wet—and where there's moisture, there's the inevitable mold, mildew and soap scum.
While some plastic shower curtain liners can be downright hazardous to your health, fabric shower curtain liners are far from perfect. According to Family Handyman, they may even be quicker to fall victim to mildew and mold due to their high rate of absorption compared to plastic liners.
Nylon Canvas (Pack Cloth)
These cloth alternatives to vinyl and plastic shower curtains do a very good job at channeling water downwards through the fabric into the tub. The dense fabrics stop water from spraying outside of the shower without the use of a liner.
PEVA stands for Polyethylene Vinyl Acetate, and it is a type of plastic material commonly used in various applications, including fabrics. PEVA fabric is often used as an alternative to traditional vinyl fabric due to its environmentally friendly properties.
Fabric shower curtains can be made out of cotton, polyester, rayon, or nylon. You can throw them in the wash every couple of months to keep them clean and fresh. And the best part? They won't be off-gassing any phthalates or heavy metals that linger in your bathroom—or in your body.
The fabric you choose for your shower curtain has a major impact on the overall design of your bathroom. However, some of the most common fabrics to choose from are vinyl or cotton. If you are looking to dress up your bathroom decor, a soft cotton fabric curtain may be the best option for you.
One of the most impactful changes you can make is replacing a curtain, liner, and rod system with glass, especially clear glass. While a one piece fiberglass tub/shower insert may not be the height of fashion, even this will get a massive glow-up with the right combo of glass and metal and a few small tweaks.
Plastic shower curtains may be washed by hand or in a washing machine. If washing by hand, soak the curtain in your bathtub and scrub with a soft brush and soap until clean. Or, toss your curtain in the washer on a gentle cycle with mild detergent and a few towels.
Uses for Worn-out Plastic Shower Curtains
Dropcloth for interior painting. Table cover for messy DIY or craft projects. Protect your car seats under kids' booster seats.
If you want to waterproof your fabric shower curtain, you'll need a chemical repellent used to waterproof outdoor wear like jackets and pants. You may use some spray products for waterproofing a variety of fabrics used in the outdoors or in car interiors.
LINEN SHOWER CURTAINS
Like hemp and cotton, linen is a natural fiber that is biodegradable and free of toxic chemicals, making it a good zero waste, plastic-free, non-toxic shower curtain option. Linen curtains work similar to that of a cotton and hemp curtain and can also be on the pricier end.
Durability. Compared to glass shower doors, shower curtains may not be as durable. Over time, they can wear out, tear, or develop mildew stains. This means you may need to replace the curtains time and again, especially if you choose lower quality or less expensive options.
Use Suction Cups
Attaching suction cups to the bottom of the shower curtain can offer a practical fix. These can be fastened to the wall or the edge of the bath, securing the curtain in place. This method is beneficial for both shower enclosures and baths with overhead showers.