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Choosing Between Shower Curtains and Liners: A Comparison

Shower curtains and liners are becoming more and more popular among different bathroom styles. While the old-fashioned concept of shower curtains has changed over time, the primary purpose of a shower curtain or liner is the same – to keep water inside the shower area.

Liners can be made from a variety of different materials and are often used to either add a splash of color to your bathroom or to add some privacy. Curtains, on the other hand, are meant for preventing water from escaping out of the shower cubicle, and of course, delivering a finished look to a bathroom. But does that mean you should only choose one for the best results?

In this article, we’ll explain the difference between shower curtains and liners and the reasons why you might want to choose one or the other.

Shower Curtain Vs Liner: Overview

Shower Curtains and Liners

Shower Liners Explained

Liners are cheaper than shower curtains, but some prefer them because they hang inside the tub. They prevent water from splashing out of the tub and soaking the area. The cheapest shower curtain liners are plain and thin, like N&Y HOME Fabric.

Despite being plastic, these liners may not be mildew-resistant like shower curtains, so you may need to clean them carefully. More expensive liners are usually composed of mildew-resistant fabrics to require less maintenance. These liners can be made of vinyl or cloth, depending on your style and budget!

Liners are frequent in public restrooms and hotels. A magnet or weight is usually stitched into the bottom. These cling to the tub to prevent water from escaping during showers. Shower liners can stand alone because they contain water. They may not be as attractive as curtains, which are designed to enhance your bathroom’s decor.

Advantages of Liners

  • Can be used on its own without a shower curtain
  • Prevents water from escaping the shower
  • Magnets hold the liner to the inside of the tub
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Not as aesthetically as shower curtains

Shower Curtains

Shower curtains are supposed to hang outside your tub to keep it dry and block people from seeing what’s going on inside, unlike shower liners.

A shower curtain is thicker and usually composed of cloth than a shower liner. Curtains can have designs printed or stitched on. Such curtains are attractive and help turn your bathroom into a sanctuary so you can add color, style, and aesthetics.

Of course, it’s important to remember that there are no rules concerning shower curtains – it’s good to understand that there’re many different types available today that can fit any theme or decor you might be pursuing.

If you’d like simplicity in your bathroom, you can find beautiful shower curtains in a wide range of colors to choose from depending on what color scheme perfectly complements the rest of the design in both your bathroom and home.

While braided or ornate shower curtains are generally works of art, they can be used to create a story and even add a spice. As mentioned above, there is no need to have a separate liner.

Advantages of Shower Curtains

  • Provides privacy while you shower
  • A decorative and essential part of a bathroom

Cons

  • A bit expensive than liners
  • Doesn’t stop water completely from splashing out

So, Which One Should You Buy?

Shower Curtains and Liners

Shower curtains and liners both prevent bathroom water spillage. But should you only choose one for the finest design? Of course not. That’s wonderful because it frees up shower rod decorative space.

Shower curtains are fantastic for hiding soap, flannels, and bottle stains and keeping water from leaking during short morning rinses or luxury evening baths, but a liner is also a good option.

A liner keeps water in the tub-shower and reduces water droplet surface tension as they leave. This reduces flooring moisture absorption.

If you want greater privacy after putting a liner, use a curtain. If the liner is too simple and you want to spice up your bathroom, a shower curtain is a terrific approach.

The Bottom Line

Shower curtains and liners may sound similar but they are fairly different when it comes to installation and hence performance.

In a shower, tub, or other bathing room, the liner protects the floor from water damage, which can cause mildew or mold.

Unlike a curtain, which hangs outside a bathtub to make your bathroom private. It doesn’t protect floors like its lining cousin, but it helps you prepare for a bath or shower in private.

You can use a shower liner without a shower curtain, but for the best looks and performance, you will probably go well with both. You will just need to ensure the curtain you choose matches the other colors present in your bathroom.