The Best Shower Curtain Liners

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 off the floor, 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 (or just the liner 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 from your shower curtain rod. 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 in the shower? Do you live in an area with high humidity? You might want to consider some extra convenient features on the liner like storage pockets 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. It’s designed to repel water and promote water bead formation so that water swiftly rolls off the surface, keeping your bathroom dry and clean. And at 72 x 72 inches, this liner fits any standard-size shower or tub, whether you have a straight or curved shower rod. With three timeless color options to choose from, you can choose to use it as a stand-alone shower curtain or pair it with your favorite fabric shower curtain. The grommets are rust-resistant. Plus, the 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 that works for most showers.

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.

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 from stain-resistant and odor-free PEVA, which is a plastic material crafted without any toxic chemicals. The clean, clear plastic doesn’t yellow over time like some other plastic liners, and it’s designed with heavy-duty magnets to keep water securely in the shower and off your floor for heightened safety. The material is mildew-resistant, and with proper care, it should last a long time. This liner has heavy-duty grommets that resist rust and tears. And caring for your liner is easy. You simply need to wipe it clean with your favorite bathroom cleaner when needed.

Cons: This liner is only available in one size, though it is a standard size. It’s a bit lightweight.

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: With many color options available, you can use this shower curtain liner as your shower curtain or as a liner with a complementary fabric to create a designer look in your bathroom. This liner is made from premium polyester fabric that beads away water and has the luxury feel of a hotel shower curtain liner. It’s thick and has magnets on the bottom to help keep water off your bathroom floor for safety. It dries quickly, so you can avoid the odors that some other shower curtain liners hold onto. Plus, this shower curtain liner is easy to clean at home in your washer and dryer.

Cons: This liner has button holes instead of grommets, and shower hooks are not included.

Bottom Line: Budget-friendly and easy to care for, this shower curtain liner is a must-have if you prefer a fabric liner. Not only does it come in a multitude of fabulous colors, but it also comes in a ton of different sizes to fit your shower precisely. Just measure before you buy to get a perfect fit.

 

Pros: Fantastic for small spaces, this shower curtain liner has nine mesh storage pockets for essentials like soap, shampoo, conditioner, and even tub toys for kids. Water quickly drains from the mesh pockets, keeping them dry and clean, so you don’t have to worry about puddling or mildew buildup. The PEVA liner is thick, water-repellent, and mildew resistant as well. And it hangs from strong, rip-resistant grommets that won’t crack or rust. This curtain comes in the standard size that fits most modern showers. And it’s easy to wipe clean when needed.

Cons: It’s recommended not to put heavy items in the mesh pockets as they can’t support a lot of weight without tearing.

Bottom Line: This is a great shower curtain liner for dorms or small bathrooms since it offers additional storage space for your everyday shower essentials. It’s made of thick and durable plastic. And it can be used as a stand-alone shower curtain or as a liner.

 

Pros: The design of this shower curtain liner adds a decorative bonus to your space. It has a unique cobblestone pattern that makes it less see-through and more visually interesting. This liner comes in four different sizes that fit most standard showers and tubs. There are more magnets at the bottom than many other liners that help to keep it in place more securely for safety. The reinforced eyelets at the top prevent tearing. And the grommets are rust-proof, durable, and strong. Plus, this shower curtain is a breeze to clean: simply wipe it down with your favorite bathroom cleaner.

Cons: It only comes in one color and pattern.

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, like a specific size, thickness, or added bonuses like storage space. Just be sure to do your homework, measure accordingly, and buy what’s right for your shower and needs.