Shower curtains serve several purposes. If you pick the correct shower curtain, it will not only maintain your privacy and keep your floor dry, but it will also improve the overall look of your bathroom. Beside towels, shower curtains are an essential bathroom accessory -- consider them drapery for the lavatory!. There are several things to note when shopping for a shower curtain. This shower curtain buying guide should help you pick a shower curtain that will keep water on your body instead of the bathroom floor.
Shower curtains are diverse by nature. They range in price and quality for all purposes, from cheap and disposable to lavishly deluxe. You will want to consider several aspects of shower curtains before deciding on one for your home. Think about what you'd like to get out of your shower curtain on the most basic level. That will help you decide on a material, rod and color.
The type of material a shower curtain is made from will influence several things in your bathroom. For example, some shower curtains are made from materials intended to do nothing more than keep the shower water from your showerhead in the tub and off of your floors. Other shower curtains are designed with the best materials to look as sleek and stylish as drapes. No matter what material you pick for your shower curtains, you should know the pros and cons you will be dealing with.
Synthetic shower curtains
The large majority of shower curtains sold are created using synthetic materials, such as vinyl, nylon and polyester. Shower curtains produced from man-made materials are often the most affordable. These shower curtains are also extremely low maintenance, as they repel water, which helps them avoid stinky mildew in the basin.
One criticism against shower curtains made with synthetic materials is their look. Such shower curtains are often not as aesthetically pleasing as more expensive curtains made from other materials. However, vinyl, polyester and nylon shower curtains are now manufactured in uncountable numbers of colors and designs, meaning you can still find something perfect for a bathroom on a budget.
Cotton and linen shower curtains
If you aren't worried about cost, fabric shower curtains made from cotton or linen are a deluxe option. These fabric shower curtains offer a plush touch to a bathroom and can often be found with matching bath towel sets.
The downfall of fabric shower curtains is their lack of defense against fungi and stains. Because cotton and linen absorb, instead of repel water, they are likely to stay wet enough to become incubators for odor-causing mold and bacteria. Because of this, you'll want to look for fabric shower curtains with an extra sealed layer and buy an extra plastic shower curtain liner. Plan to wash this type of shower curtains frequently.
Hemp shower curtains
A unique option for shower curtains is hemp. Because these curtains are made from plant fibers in the same vein as cotton, they maintain a high-class look. The advantage they have on cloth shower curtains is hemp's natural ability to resist bacteria and fungi. Hemp shower curtains can be slightly pricier than traditional fabric shower curtains, but their ability to stay fresh and clean over long periods of time is something worth considering.
It's your house, so have fun when selecting the color of your shower curtains. While white shower curtains are classic, they aren't your only option. Imagine a sophisticated bathroom with a black shower curtain. Add a splash of bubbly fun with a pink shower curtain or a purple shower curtain. Or go with a printed shower curtain. Dolphin shower curtains are popular and cute, as are country shower curtains. Stripe shower curtains and polka dot shower curtains can really mix things up.
If you're aiming for fun instead of elegance, novelty shower curtains are a great way to go. Take tropical shower curtains, for example. It's up to you whether you choose something simple like brown shower curtains or something with a print like nautical shower curtains.
As the supporter of your shower curtains, a shower curtain rod should be both a hardworking and attractive accessory for your bathroom. A shower curtain rod of poor quality may not just be unsightly, it may be dangerous. You'll want to mull over two important elements of shower curtain rods before selecting one. First, the shape of the rod will be crucial, which will depend on the size and shape of your shower. Secondly, you'll want to decide on what sort of material you'd like for the rod.
Shower curtain rod shapes
The shape of your shower curtain rod will ultimately depend on what sort of shower and space you are dealing with. Make sure to take measurements before purchasing a rod.
Straight: Straight shower curtain rods are easily the most popular variety. This shape of shower curtain rod will fit a wide array of showers.
Curved: Curved shower curtain rods are another popular shape. These will match a variety of built-in tub and shower combinations.
L-shaped: L-shaped shower curtain rods are essential for showers not entirely surrounded by walls. Ceiling supports are recommended for this type of rod.
Circular and oval:For free-standing bath/shower hybrids such as classic claw-foot tubs, you'll want to purchase a circular or oval shower rod. This sort of shower curtain rod requires ceiling support.
Shower curtain rod materials
The majority of shower curtain rods are produced using sturdy enough metals to hold up your shower curtains and whatever bath towels you choose to throw over them. As long as your shower curtain rods are secured tightly, the only thing you'll need to worry about is their aesthetic value. For example, a chrome shower curtain rod will bring a retro cool to your bath, while a bronze rod will provide a classic, timeless touch.
How often should I switch out my shower curtains?
The answer lies in the sort of material from which your shower curtains are made. If you're using shower curtains made from synthetic material, you'll be able to hold on to your shower curtains as long as they hold up. This is because materials like polyester and vinyl resist water and therefore resist the growth of mildew. However, shower curtains made from synthetics are often cheap enough that you'll be able to change them on a whim! Fabric shower curtains should be washed often to avoid bacterial growth, so you'll want to switch them as the natural effects of a washing machine begin to take hold of them. No matter how often you change your shower curtains, there's no need to worry about finding a good replacement at an excellent price on Overstock.com!
Are new shower curtains toxic?
Absolutely not. Some false reports have surfaced claiming that new shower curtains can contain deadly toxins, but they have been debunked. So, no matter what type of shower curtain you pick from the wide selection on Overstock.com, you have no need to be concerned: Shower curtains do not pose a health risk.
How do I avoid the dreaded "shower curtain effect?"
The "shower curtain effect" is the phenomenon experienced when a shower curtain blows towards the warm water of your shower. This can be solved in a couple of ways. The most effective is to buy shower curtains with magnets installed in the bottom or install your own magnets. The magnets will be drawn to the metal in your bathtub, holding the shower curtain in place while the water runs. Another option is to use two shower curtains, one that will sit inside the bathtub, and one that will sit outside, reducing the airflow that causes your shower curtains to blow inward.
Double up
Whether you're thinking about buying cloth shower curtains or shower curtains made from synthetic materials, it's always a good idea to double up. By having both a shower curtain on the interior and exterior of your shower, you'll keep your floor drier and your bathroom looking cleaner. And with the excellent deals you'll find on Overstock.com, buying two won't cost you a fortune!
Open the curtains on coordination
After you find just the right shower curtain for the job on Overstock.com, think about complementing it with some other bathroom accessories. Highlight your shower curtain with a bath rug in a complementary color, and then select some striking new bath towels and maybe even a matching bathrobe!. Overstock.com also has a great selection of showerheads, faucets, soap dishes, toilet seats, medicine cabinets and even bidets. Combine them with your new shower curtains for an easy mini-renovation. Or if you want to do your bathroom up right, take a look at our clwfoot bathtubs for a really elegant look!
