The Best Shower Curtain Liners

When it comes to finding the right shower curtain liner, it’s all about what fits your needs. There are shower curtain liners with added privacy, curtain liners with storage pockets, and curtain liners that prevent mold and mildew buildup. It all depends on your needs, your space, and your style. Countless shower curtain liners are available today, so we’ve compiled a list of some of the best to fit your needs.

Buying Guide for Shower Curtain Liners

Why buy a shower curtain liner?

For many people, a shower curtain liner is a necessity. A quality shower curtain liner helps to keep your bathroom floor dry while you shower. It will keep the water in the bathtub or shower and away from slippery tiles, keeping you and your family safe from slips and falls. When paired with a shower curtain, it will make the curtain last longer and be much more effective than using the curtain by itself. Plus, if you wash your liner and curtain regularly, you can avoid buying a new one every time you notice mildew accumulating.

What should you look for in a shower curtain liner?

• Material: Some people prefer a fabric shower curtain liner, while others prefer a liner made from sustainable, safe plastic. You will want to be sure that the shower curtain liner is easy to clean, won’t attract unwanted dirt or grime, and is thick enough to suit your needs.
• Weight: A shower curtain liner is generally lightweight, making it easy to move and remove. However, if you want it to stay in place as you shower, be sure that your liner has something inside of its seams or magnets on the bottom to weigh or keep it down.
• Length: Shower curtain liners come in a variety of lengths, so be sure to measure before you buy. Standard showers usually require 72- by 72-inch liners and curtains.
• Extras: Do you need extra storage? Do you live in a high-humidity area? You might want to consider some extra convenient features before making a decision.

Should you buy a fabric shower curtain liner or a plastic liner?

Plastic shower curtain liners are easy to spray and wash without removing them from the shower rod. Many people prefer plastic liners because they’re so easy to care for and are also cost-effective. Fabric shower curtain liners are generally made to be machine washable. However, if your bathroom doesn’t have great ventilation, a fabric shower curtain liner may smell musty more often and need to be washed frequently. If you have adequate ventilation and enjoy fabric better than plastic, a fabric shower curtain liner may be a good choice for you.

Our Picks for the Best Shower Curtain Liners

Pros: This shower curtain liner is quick-drying, so cleanup is pretty effortless. The grommets are rust-resistant. Its PEVA material is odorless, so you don’t have to worry about those odd plastic smells that are common with PVC. Overall, it’s a reliable option for most.

Cons: Some people reported mildew buildup after long-term use, but this is typical of most liners. There are only three weighted magnets at the bottom, so it doesn’t stay in place as well as some other brands that have more magnets or heavier ones. There’s not a lot of variety in color or pattern.

Bottom Line: For a solid, durable plastic liner, this is a great selection. It does the job well for most people. It’s made from earth-friendly materials, unlike many other plastic shower curtain liners.

 

Pros: This shower curtain liner is made without any toxic chemicals. It doesn’t yellow over time like some other plastic liners, and it’s mildew-resistant. The heavy-duty grommets resist rust and tears. Easily wipe it clean when needed.

Cons: This liner is only available in one size, though it is a standard size. It’s a bit lightweight, despite its name. The magnets in the shower curtain liner are small, so they don’t weigh the curtain down enough for some.

Bottom Line: If quick mildew accumulation has been an issue in every other shower curtain liner, this might be a good one to try out. Though it can be a little thin for some, it does well to protect your shower curtain and your floor from unwanted moisture. It’s compatible with standard showers, and it’s a good value pick for your bathroom essentials.

 

Pros: This shower curtain comes in a variety of colors and sizes. It has easy-care fabric, made from durable polyester. It’s completely waterproof. It can be used as a shower curtain on its own as well as a liner.

Cons: If water is directed at the fabric, it will spray through a little. Mold or mildew can build up if it isn’t frequently washed. It’s not properly weighted at the bottom for some users.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a water-resistant fabric shower curtain liner, this is a great option. It’s similar to the ones commonly used in hotels, and it has a more luxurious feel than plastic. As long as it is frequently washed, it will smell pleasant and stay clean.

 

Pros: The mesh pockets are easy to clean, keeping grime away from your tub or shower. It comes with nine mesh pockets on the inside, so you can keep your razor, body products, loofah, kids’ toys, or whatever else you need in the shower or tub stored inside them. This curtain is heavy-duty, made with thick and durable plastic.

Cons: The pockets have a weight limit of no more than one pound, so they’re not great for larger bottles of shampoo or body wash. It only comes in one size, which is slightly smaller in width than the standard 6 ft by 6 ft size. Because of its weight, you may need to purchase heftier curtain rings.

Bottom Line: This shower curtain is made with heavy plastic and has nine convenient pockets to save space. It’s ideal for apartment bathrooms and kids’ bathrooms where extra storage may be needed. The grommets are rustproof, so it’s all-around made to last.

 

Pros: The design of this shower curtain liner adds a decorative bonus to your space. It has a pebble-like pattern that makes it less see-through and more visually interesting. This liner comes in four different sizes to fit multiple spaces. There are more magnets at the bottom than many other liners, keeping it in place. Reinforced eyelets prevent tearing.

Cons: It only comes in one color and pattern. It can be a little too long or thin for some people.

Bottom Line: This is a semi-transparent, beautifully patterned shower curtain that is made to keep your floor and shower curtain dry. Unlike some other shower curtains, this one is made extra-long to fit taller showers. You can enjoy privacy while also bathing in natural light behind this shower curtain liner.

Final Thoughts

While not everyone needs a shower curtain liner, those who do might need some specific design elements in their liner. Whether it’s a specific size, thickness, or added bonuses like storage space, be sure to do your homework, measure accordingly, and buy what’s right for you.