You might have bought a shower curtain for your bathroom, but do you know if you need a shower liner? Investing in a quality shower curtain liner aids in preserving the life and quality of your curtain. Additionally, it is more hygienic.
In this write-down, we take you through the meaning, purpose, and what to consider when purchasing a shower liner. We will also answer your questions regarding the topic and shower curtains. Read on.
Table of Contents
Shower curtains vs. Shower Liner
Before answering whether a shower curtain needs a curtain liner, it is paramount to know the difference between them. We will inform you whether you need both for your bathroom or are unnecessary.
A shower curtain is a curtain that keeps water from spilling outside your shower and hangs outside the tub or shower base to avoid being wet. However, this isn’t its main role. Instead, it is meant to offer privacy while a person is taking a shower.
Shower curtains are made of various materials like linen, polyester, cotton, and vinyl, which come in multiple colors and patterns. They’re opaque, and since they’re aesthetically appealing, they improve your bathroom’s décor.
On the other hand, shower liners’ primary role is to prevent water from spilling out of the shower, which hangs to the inside of the tub. They are water resistant and made of plastic, vinyl, or polyester.
Liners usually have weights or magnets sewn into the bottom to adhere them to the inside of the tub, ensuring there is no space for water to escape.
Tip: Shower liners can be used independently without an outer shower curtain, but the reverse is not normally true.
Do Shower Curtain Need Liners?
The answer to the above question is not specific as this is absolutely a personal choice. You can use shower curtains without liners, reducing their overall longevity.
Therefore, requiring you to replace your shower curtain within a short period yet liners can protect and keep them looking appealing for a longer time.
Regardless of your curtain type, including a liner has its advantages, such as:
- They’re inexpensive and disposable.
- Curtain liners elongate the lifespan of shower curtains
- Keep your bathroom floor dry.
- They protect curtains from the growth of mold, mildew, and water runoff
- They are available in a range of prices and construction materials; thus, depending on your budget and décor, you will find a curtain liner that will change your shower
Pros and Cons of a Shower Curtain and Liner
Because a shower curtain and liner stand out separately, here is a brief of their pros and cons.
Shower Liners
Pros
- Affordable
- Keeps water from escaping the shower
- The magnets at the bottom of the liner hold them inside the tub
- It can work alone without a curtain
- Easy to detect when dirty
- Requires less maintenance if décor isn’t your priority
- You can keep an eye on the young one
Cons
- Not as attractive as shower curtains
- No privacy if you have roommates, especially for clear liners
- Can see the grime if the tub gets dirty
Shower Curtains
Pros
- Decorative
- Provides privacy as you shower
Cons
- They are pricey
- Doesn’t stop water from spilling out
- Susceptible to water damage
- Light shower curtains blow around, touching you while showering.
How to Choose a Quality Shower Liner
To select an ideal shower liner for your bathroom that will serve for many years, consider the following qualities:
Hanging Type and Style
You can hang your curtain liners from holes, snaps, or hooks. Shower hooks and grommets are stainless steel, although they can be found in different colors and finishes like gold and bronze. Matching your shower hardware with your shower head, faucet, and curtain rod is advisable.
In terms of style, there is a wide range of patterns, colors, and textures to make your choice. Blending your shower liners into your bathroom and shower space is crucial.
Nonetheless, if you want to go bold, you can choose another shade, and it also can be textured with pebbled or opaque patterns to guarantee privacy.
Functionality
Two roles that your liners do perfectly are to contain water inside your shower and resist mildew and mold build-up associated with a wet, humid environment. So, you can try on PEVA/EVA materials or plastic-like, not forgetting polyester for a longer service.
It is paramount to look for magnetic hems or weights sewn into the bottom corners to prevent the liners from billowing (for fabric liners) and from spilling water.
Extra Tips
Note that cheap shower curtains are prone to wear and tear and may need regular replacement. Those made from durable canvas, vinyl, or other study material liners will last long with proper care.
Shower curtain liners may be thrown in the washing machine, although most are often made from wipeable materials.
I strive for health and hygiene; shower liners provide features such as rust-proof grommets, mildew resistance, use of non-toxic materials, and are antibacterial. Some are fast-dry, machine washable, and don’t emit a strong odor.
What Are The Best Materials For Shower Liners?
Shower liners are available in various material qualities ranging from less expensive to the most expensive ones. With the overwhelming options, here are some tips to get you set
Vinyl
These are the cheapest option with easy cleaning and are very effective. Sometimes you can wipe down the liners.
However, avoid vinyl shower liners with PVC as it has toxic chemicals that can harm your health. The best alternative is the one made with PEVA/EVA because it is safe.
They are suitable for those on budget
PEVA/EVA
They’re more similar to vinyl. PEVA (polyethylene vinyl acetate and ethylene vinyl acetate) has fewer VOCs and is chlorine-free. They also are eco-friendly and great for your health. PEVA liners contain antimicrobial properties and are highly resistant to water and mildew.
Polyester
This fabric is water resistant but also inexpensive. It doesn’t have PVC and can be thrown into the machine. Most polyester shower curtains are opaque, offering you some privacy if you use them alone.
Thus ideal for those on budget, health-conscious, and who love privacy.
Can A Shower Curtain Work Without A Liner?
Shower curtains, even though they’re manufactured to be water resistant, it is best to use a liner to protect them from the splashes from the shower several times a day and elongate their shell life. Shower curtains may be attractive and can perform well without a liner.
However, having a shower liner is an added upgrade, and they’re affordable, reduce moisture in the bathroom, and prevent unwanted mold, mildew, and bacteria growth. Unlike curtains that take at least three months, a shower liner needs a wipe-down weekly. Give your bathroom décor a boost, improve your health, and increase the functionality of your shower curtain by selecting a quality shower liner.