Should a shower curtain have a liner?

Author: Lenny Sporer  |  Last update: Monday, June 29, 2026

Before you hang up a new shower curtain, you first need to buy a shower liner. Why? Because shower liners protect your shower curtain from getting wet and growing mold and mildew. A liner also keeps the water in the tub or shower.

Do you really need a shower curtain liner?

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.

Is there a shower curtain that doesn't need a liner?

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.

Can you use a fabric shower curtain without a plastic liner?

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.

Do shower curtains and liners go on the same hook?

You simply put the liner on the inside part of the hooks and the curtain on the outside part. Hope this helps!

Everyone will be taking down their shower curtain when they see this bathroom idea!

What is the difference between a shower curtain and a shower curtain liner?

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.

Does shower curtain liner face in or out?

The textured side should be facing out. If you look at the grommets, you can tell which way should be facing out - the smooth or front side of the grommet.

What to avoid in a shower curtain?

The solution is to avoid shower curtains and liners made with PVCs. Instead, look for PVC-free shower curtains, which are widely available. A number of major retailers plan to offer more PVC-free shower curtains and two, Ikea and Marks & Spencer, are switching over to PVC-free products.

Is there a shower curtain that doesn't get moldy?

While there are plenty of fabric options to choose from, both Varela and Roman Peysakhovich, Co-Founder of national cleaning company Onedesk, recommend opting for EVA vinyl, which "acts as a natural water repellent," says Peysakhovich, and is strongly resistant to mold and mildew.

What kind of shower curtain liner is best?

PEVA & EVA Shower Liners

Chlorine is one of the main reasons why PVC liners emit such a terrible smell, so having a chlorine-free liner is certainly preferable for your health. You won't have to worry about any noxious fumes off-gassing from a PEVA or EVA liner.

How often should I replace my shower liner?

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.

What is the healthiest shower curtain?

The best healthy shower curtains are those made of 100% GOTS-certified organic or 100% OEKO-TEX-certified linen. If you're not dead-set on an organic shower curtain liner, they also have 100% cotton ones sourced through their BCI cotton partnership.

How to stop shower liner from blowing in?

Attaching heavy-weight magnets to the inside or outside of the shower curtain can help to weigh it down. This method keeps the curtain in place during your shower, preventing it from billowing inward. Consider placing the magnets along the curtain's bottom edge to ensure even weight distribution.

Do you need curtain lining?

If your curtains are made from very thick, woven wool then they may be heavy enough already. If you have chosen draperies that are sheer by design, like net curtains, then naturally you wouldn't want to line those. Thinner cotton or polyester curtains should be lined, however, to stop them looking washed out.

Why is shower curtain liner pink?

The pink tint on your shower curtain is often caused by a bacterium called Serratia marcescens. This bacterium thrives in moist environments and is commonly found in bathrooms. It produces a pinkish pigment, leading to the discoloration of various surfaces, including shower curtains.

Do you need to waterproof behind a shower liner?

Penetrations in shower linings should be waterproofed with a proprietary system or sealant to prevent water damage.

Can you use a shower curtain without a liner?

Shower Curtain: Many vinyl or polyester shower curtains can be used without liners since these materials are water-resistant. Bear in mind though, this means the curtain itself will then be exposed to all the soap scum and dirt and will require more regular cleaning.

Is it OK to wash moldy shower curtain in washing machine?

Over time, bath and shower curtains can become dirty due to mould, mildew and a build-up of soap scum. Shower curtains can easily be washed and refreshed, either by hand or in the washing machine.

Should you leave shower curtain open or closed to prevent mold?

As soon as you get out of the shower, wipe the floor and close the curtain so it can fully dry out. Shower curtains are prime targets for mildew. If you have a shower with a door, leave the door open to air out the inside of the shower.

What is the alternative to a shower curtain?

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.

What is the black stuff at the bottom of my shower?

A black fungus or mold is thought to be the cause of the black slime. These types of fungi are common inhabitants of our environment and can be found in many places, including human and animal feces, dust, soil, and in surface water.

Will vinegar remove mold from a shower curtain?

First, mix one part white vinegar to four parts water in a spray bottle. Close the shower curtain so it extends the full length of the tub or stall, and, on the tub-side, spray with the vinegar and water solution. The vinegar will work to break down soap scum and mold.

What is the difference between a shower curtain and a shower liner?

Before you hang up a new shower curtain, you first need to buy a shower liner. Why? Because shower liners protect your shower curtain from getting wet and growing mold and mildew. A liner also keeps the water in the tub or shower.

Does shower curtain and liner go on same hook?

“And always use double hooks so that the liner can hang inside the tub while the decorative curtain stays on the outside,” Pulcine suggests.

How often do you wash shower curtain liner?

How often to wash a shower curtain? As a best practice, consider washing your shower curtains at least once a month. With daily usage in your home, shower curtains and liners can quickly become soiled, but by regularly hand washing or running through your washing machine can help keep them fresh and clean.

Previous article
What is the difference between beige and cream?
Next article
How many sq ft is a ceiling tile?