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Reviewed / Quiet Town / Brooklinen / Threshold
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Reviewed / Quiet Town / Brooklinen / Threshold
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This EVA vinyl shower curtain combines style with functionality, saving you money by eliminating the need for a liner. We love its bold colors! Read More
Durable, sturdy, and a massive Amazon seller, this shower curtain and liner offers incredible value. Read More
A Quiet Town canvas curtain is an heirloom-quality item you can use for years or even rotate into different bathrooms as your décor changes. Read More
It’s hard to find a better fabric curtain for the price. It has a spa-like vibe with sturdy construction, and it comes in several neutral colors. Read More
Beautiful, natural European flax linen brings elegance to your bathroom shower. It dries nicely and is mildew-resistant. Read More
I've had so many fights with my husband about shower curtains. From a vinyl number patterned with blue sharks a la "Jaws" (I hated it) to a fabric one with pastel birds (he loathed it), we've bought and then returned shower curtains several times during our relationship. I'm not sure why either one of us feels so passionately about such a minor purchase. Perhaps it's because we spend so much time every day in the bathroom (washing, sitting, staring), or because we really love home décor (?), we can't have a shower curtain that absolutely irritates us.
I've carried this sentiment over to this guide of the very best shower curtains on the market right now, including vinyl and cloth variations from independent makers to massive retailers. We've evaluated design, durability, mildew-resistance, and more. The Quiet Town Sun Shower Curtain (available at Sun Shower) tops this guide for its multi-purpose, high quality EVA and bold colors. Keep reading for the rest of our top selections.
Incredible value
Proven mildew-resistance
No off-gassing
Weighted bottom and sturdy build
Plain, limited aesthetic options
Needs occasional wiping to stay mold-free
Choosing a shower curtain might seem straightforward, but a few key factors can make the difference between a soggy mess and a bathroom you love:
Shower curtains come in plastic vs. fabric varieties. Plastic (vinyl) curtains, like those made of PEVA/EVA or PVC, are waterproof and don’t require a separate liner. PEVA/EVA is preferred over older PVC because it’s chlorine-free and has no harsh odor. Vinyl shower curtains are great for moisture resistance, but they need to be wiped clean.
Fabric curtains (polyester, cotton, linen, etc.) are more decorative and upscale-looking, but typically need an additional liner to keep water from soaking them. Polyester curtains are water-resistant and sometimes usable without a liner (some have waterproof coatings). In contrast, cotton/linen absolutely should be paired with a liner (unless they’re specifically designed to be quick-dry). Consider whether you prefer the ease of a vinyl curtain, the look of fabric, or a hybrid option (some fabric curtains are now coated to repel water).
Standard shower curtains are 72 by 72 inches, which fits a standard tub/shower combo. To ensure a proper fit, get a shower curtain wide enough to cover the bath’s opening with gathered fabric rather than pulled taut. Measure your space before buying. Curtain width should be 10 to 12 inches more than the span you need to cover, so it drapes nicely.
If you have a tall shower rod or high ceilings, look for extra-long curtains: commonly 84 inches or even 96 inches in length. For shower stalls or shower-pan setups, there are stall-size curtains (usually ~54 inches wide). Also consider the curtain shape or specifics. Do you have a clawfoot tub or an open shower? In this case, you might need a wrap-around curtain or multiple panels.
Traditional shower curtains have grommet or buttonhole eyelets that require shower curtain rings. Make sure your curtain has reinforced holes (metal grommets are best for strength).
Alternatively, hookless curtains have built-in rings or grommets that you can slide a shower curtain rod through. These are convenient because you don’t have to buy separate rings, and they’re easy to put up.
If you go with hooks, there are double-sided options that allow for hanging a liner and a curtain separately for easy removal.
Bathrooms are humid, and mildew is the enemy. Look for curtains that have mold-resistant or antimicrobial properties or anti-mildew additives, like many PEVA/vinyl curtains. Fabric curtains typically don’t have coatings (except for some polyester ones with water-repellent finishes).
A tip: If mildew is a big concern, ventilation is key (use that fan, or let the curtain spread out to dry). Also, choose quicker-drying fabrics or lighter-weight liners. Avoid letting the curtain sit folded or bunched when wet—this is how mildew breeds.
Vinyl curtains can often be wiped down in place or occasionally thrown in the washing machine on a gentle cycle. Fabric curtains are usually machine-washable, but you’ll still want to check tags for care instructions, as some heavier fabrics like linen may require gentle cycles or air drying to avoid damage.
If you hate cleaning, a replaceable liner system (like a hookless with snap-out liner) can save effort—you can swap in a fresh liner every few months. Also, color/pattern affects cleaning: a busy pattern may hide water spots or soap residue better than a plain, clear curtain.
Pick a curtain that matches your style! You shouldn’t have to settle for boring just because this is a functional accessory for your home’s sweatiest room. A shower curtain is a fun way to add personality to a bathroom. There are endless designs: solid colors for a minimalist look, funky prints for a fun touch, hotel-style white waffle weaves for a spa vibe, or luxury materials (linen, cotton) for a high-end feel.
Remember that light colors or transparent curtains will allow more light into the shower (making a small bathroom feel larger). In contrast, dark or opaque curtains add privacy but can make the shower interior dim. Also, if you have kids, there are plenty of playful shower curtains. Think of a shower curtain as a large vertical décor piece as well as a functional item, and try to complement or accent your existing look.
Shower curtains are versatile and convenient, but if you can’t stand the idea of periodic cleaning, or if your priority is a permanent fixture with no fabric, you might be happier skipping shower curtains.
Design-wise, a shower curtain might not suit everyone’s taste. Some people prefer the open, modern look of a glass shower screen. If you want a sleek, ultra-minimalist aesthetic, a curtain might feel visually cluttered. In this case, curtains aren’t for you because they introduce a textile element in the bathroom.
Similarly, suppose you have a walk-in shower (no tub ledge) and you want to keep all water in. In that case, a curtain can sometimes be less effective than a fitted glass enclosure, as water can escape from the sides or bottom if not appropriately weighted.
Any curtain requires regular cleaning or replacing to prevent mildew buildup. So, if you’re someone who hates laundry or swapping out furnishings, you’ll probably avoid the occasional washing (fabric ones) or wiping (vinyl ones) required.
In a bathroom with constant moisture, even an antimicrobial curtain will show mold spots eventually. If this sounds like your situation, consider installing a fan or opening a window when showering to improve ventilation. Alternatively, you could opt for glass shower doors, which don’t have fabric that can harbor mildew, but without ventilation, you'll grow mold and mildew on walls and ceilings, too.
Our team of product experts is a leader in the home, kitchen, and bath industries. We extensively evaluate every product we recommend to readers because we want to make sure that you get the best product fit for your needs. For this article on the best shower curtains, we researched top-rated options, consulted trusted sources, and considered real-world user feedback from sites like Amazon and Reddit. We’re committed to giving you recommendations you can trust.
In a word, yes. Many shower curtains (and liners) can be machine-washed, but always double-check the label.
For fabric curtains, use cold or warm water on a gentle cycle. Add a couple of bath towels, which act as scrubbers to help remove dirt and also balance the load. Use regular laundry detergent, and avoid bleach on colored fabric. If you have mildew stains on a white cotton curtain, then non-chlorine bleach or OxiClean can help. After washing, hang it up to air dry, or tumble dry low if the instructions allow.
When it comes to plastic curtains or liners, you can often wash them, too. Use cold water, add a little detergent, and a 1/2 cup of baking soda for deodorizing. Avoid using high heat and never put vinyl in the dryer, as it can and will melt. Just hang it up dripping wet; the water will drain off, and it’ll dry quickly.
One typical hack: If your vinyl liner has mildew or soap scum, machine wash it with detergent and a cup of white vinegar. Doing so helps kill mold and remove residue. Always remove the hooks or rings before washing, as they can snag or damage the curtain (for hookless, you obviously can’t remove the rings, but they’re usually fine in the wash). Washing a cheap liner can extend its life, though at some point, replacement might be easier.
It depends on the material and how prone your bathroom is to mildew.
Fabric shower curtains should be washed about once a month. Vinyl or PEVA curtains can be cleaned by wiping them down periodically with a mild cleaner or vinegar solution.
Replace your shower curtain or liner when you see signs of wear, heavy mildew stains that won’t come out, or tearing. In a well-ventilated bathroom, a quality curtain liner can last a year or more without issue. If your bathroom is very humid or you don’t clean often, you may need to replace cheaper liners every 3 to 6 months.
Tip: To extend time between washes, always spread the curtain out across the rod after showering so it can dry thoroughly (bunching it invites mold).
It depends on the curtain. Plastic curtains (PVC, PEVA, EVA) act as a water barrier themselves, so they usually do not need a liner, since they are the liner.
Many people use a decorative fabric curtain on the outside and a cheap vinyl liner inside, which gets wet. If you have a fabric curtain that is not water-resistant, you should use a liner to keep it dry and help it last.
That said, some polyester curtains and certain cotton ones can be used without a liner because they’re woven to repel water or dry quickly. The downsides of skipping a liner include your fabric curtain getting soaked, possibly allowing water to splash through, and needing to wash it more often. A liner adds a layer of protection. It’s easier to clean or replace a $10 liner than a $50 decorative curtain.
If you hate liners, consider a thick vinyl curtain or a waterproof fabric curtain. Be diligent about keeping it clean and spreading it out to dry. But in general, we recommend using a liner for most fabric curtains—it will extend the life of your curtain and improve water containment.
Most homeowners already know that mildew thrives in damp, dark environments, and bathrooms, especially after a shower or three, become cesspools of moisture, trapping droplets beneath shower curtains. It's your job to make this climate less inviting. Here are some tips:
Older PVC (polyvinyl chloride) shower curtains have a bad reputation for emitting an intense plastic smell when new, which is volatile organic compounds (VOCs) off-gassing. Studies have found that PVC curtains can release chemicals, such as phthalates and organotins, which are not beneficial for indoor air quality.
The good news is that most major brands have moved away from PVC in favor of PEVA or EVA, which are chlorine-free vinyls. These have little to no odor and are considered much safer for home use. If you do have a PVC curtain, it’s not likely to harm you outright, but to be safe: air it out well when new (hang it in a well-ventilated room for a few days) or use an air purifier with an activated carbon filter](https://www.reviewed.com/cleaning/features/what-does-air-purifier-do). If it still reeks, consider replacing it with a PEVA or fabric curtain. All the picks we’ve listed in this guide are PVC-free. However, that “new shower curtain smell” problem is a moot point today—the vast majority of shower curtains you’ll encounter in stores will proudly say PVC-free.
When it comes to real owners’ experiences with our Best Overall pick, the Quiet Town Sun Shower, the feedback is glowing. On Quiet Town’s site and social media, customers frequently comment that they “never knew a shower curtain could make me so happy.” They love the way the colorful transparent material brightens up the bathroom. One user on Instagram mentioned that their small bathroom felt larger and more cheerful with the Sun Shower in a yellow tint, as it cast a warm glow when sunlight passed through.
Owners also appreciate the quality: Numerous reviews talk about how thick and sturdy the curtain feels compared to the cheap vinyl liners they had used before, and that the grommets are firmly attached and don’t tear.
Many Quiet Town buyers are environmentally conscious, so a big point of praise is the lack of chemical smell and the fact that it’s PVC-free.
On the flip side, some owners learned the hard way about cleaning it: A few mention that if you neglect cleaning for too long, you might see orange-y hard water stains or mildew around the bottom. But even those users said that a bit of bathroom cleaner and a soft brush cleaned it off, and it looked new again.
One Quiet Town reviewer wrote that they take the curtain off seasonally to deep clean, and it’s holding up well after two years of this routine.
Another common thread: Guests notice it. If you choose a fun color like bright orange or pink, you can expect to get compliments. We saw a review where the owner said every visitor asked where they got the curtain. It’s not often a shower curtain is a conversation piece.
Lastly, some practical owner tips emerged: A few folks recommend keeping a microfiber cloth handy and just wiping the curtain down once a week to avoid water spot buildup. And if you have hard water, one user suggests applying a coat of Rain-X (the stuff for car windshields) to help water bead off more easily; it’s an interesting hack for vinyl curtains to stay clearer longer. Do this at your own risk—we’ve not tried it, but we think it is worth mentioning.
Overall, owners feel it was worth its price tag.
Leigh Harrington has 25 years experience as a writer and editor for myriad print and digital publications.
At Reviewed, Harrington manages Reviewed's overall content, including areas of focus like home improvement, cleaning, gardening, cooking, smart home, organization, and parenting. She focuses on developing and editing consumer ed content, product reviews and buying guides, but she also writes, too.
Harrington is also an experienced travel writer, and has authored books including Fodor's Boston, 100 Things to Do in Boston Before You Die, and Colorful Cities Boston, an adult coloring book. She was a respected, longtime regional editorial director at Where travel guide, and has written for other publications including the US News & World Report, USA Today, Boston Herald, Newport Life, Exhale magazine, Huffington Post, and many more. www.leighharrington.com
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