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.
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.
Conclusion: It is anticipated that these phthalates, organotins, and VOCs are constantly emitted into the air surrounding the shower curtain, since they are not chemically bound to the PVC. Emissions from a PVC shower curtain will be evaluated in a subsequent dynamic chamber study.
Vinyl: The Durable Champion
If durability is what you're after, then look no further. Vinyl shower curtains are both tough and resilient. With their water-resistant properties and easy-to-clean surface, vinyl curtains can withstand the daily onslaught of water and soap scum without breaking a sweat.
Frequent Replacement: Shower curtains require regular washing and replacement due to the accumulation of humidity and lack of ventilation. This can result in higher long-term costs.
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.
If mold grows on a shower curtain, it's best to throw it away. Mold is almost impossible to remove completely because it grows into the empty spaces and crevices on porous surfaces. As a result, the mold may come back and spread, even if you try to thoroughly clean your moldy shower curtain and liner.
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.
PEVA is certainly less toxic than PVC, because it doesn't require phthalates like BPA to make it a soft and flexible fabric, and it doesn't require chlorine in its production.
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.
Polyester and nylon are synthetic materials made from oil-byproducts. They are typically treated with chemical (synthetic) dyes and finishes. Compared to vinyl shower curtains, polyester and nylon are better alternatives, but they may not be as nontoxic as 100% organic cotton and hemp.
Instead of replacing your plastic shower curtain, you can get it cleaned in three easy steps. First, remove it from all its hooks and the rod. Then, clean it in the washer utilizing regular laundry detergent or color-safe bleach for a deeper clean. Finally, hang your curtain up to dry.
To select nontoxic window curtains, we should assess the textiles, dyes, and fabric finishes. Chemicals often found in each of these components include chlorine, formaldehyde, pesticides, and PFCs. They may contribute to health issues, like asthma and cancer.
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.
The average curtain should hang 75 to 77 inches off the ground. It's worth noting if your shower curtain drags across the floor, the excess puddle of fabric will act as a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which will require more frequent cleaning.
Wash in cold, warm or hot water, depending on the material. For plastic curtains/liners, you should wash on cold to prevent melting or warping. At the rinse cycle, add 1/2 to 1 cup of distilled white vinegar. Allow fabric curtains to run through the spin cycle, then hang to dry.
Vinyl naturally repels water, so a build-up of harmful mould and mildew are less of an issue. Also, if you plan on regularly decorating or updating your bathroom style on a budget, vinyl curtains are perfect for its low cost. An alternative to vinyl is polyester shower curtains…
First, let me say that (Re)Zip bags are not made of silicone—they're made of a plastic called PEVA, or polyethylene vinyl acetate.
If you're looking for a non-toxic shower curtain liner, the best options are liners made from organic fabrics like cotton, linen, or hemp. These are not waterproof, but they are water resistant. They do take longer to dry, but they don't emit any VOCs during production or use.
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.
Use String Or Ribbon Instead of Shower Rings and Adjust the Length to Fit. If you have some extra ribbon or string sitting around, you can use them to lengthen your shower curtain. Using ribbons or strings will make it easy to get the exact length you want.
“It's very important to regularly change out your shower curtain, especially if you suffer from a chronic illness or autoimmune condition.” Carson points to guidance from the Cleveland Clinic, which also recommends replacing your shower curtain liner every six months to a year.
Shower Curtains & Shower Curtain Liners: Every 6 Months
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. Most fabric shower curtains are machine washable, but always check the care instructions before washing.
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.
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.