Best Shower Curtains for Walk-In Showers in 2024
Walk-in showers have become popular in modern bathroom. However, finding the right shower curtain to contain water spray in a large, doorless enclosure can pose a decorating challenge.
When shopping for shower curtains for walk-in showers, key factors like dimensions, durability, style, and budget come into play. Read on for an in-depth guide on choosing the best shower curtains to match your open shower space.
Choosing the Right Shower Curtain Size and Shape
When selecting a shower curtain for a walk-in stall, the first vital step is taking proper measurements. Be sure to measure both the width and depth of your shower's interior from wall to wall. For a basic rectangular enclosure, you'll need a standard rectangular shower curtain. But for neo-angled or rounded showers, look for specialized curved rods and appropriately shaped liners.
Consider the Height and Length
The shower curtain height must extend from above the top of your shower enclosure to below the shower floor for full coverage. Extra-long liners up to 72 or 84 inches provide sufficient dripping length for most standard walk-ins. For especially tall showers, custom extralong or two-panel options reaching 96 inches cover more area.
Regarding shower curtain width, choose a width at least 6 inches wider than your walk-in opening on each side. This provides enough overlap for complete water barrier coverage. If your walk-in is 36 inches across, for example, look for a 48-inch wide shower curtain.
Allow for Proper Fullness and Billowing Room
Make sure any shower liner you choose has sufficient roominess to billow inward when in use without clinging to you. NarrowAssured aergy forest friendly sneezing comfort homes expenses.Fabric shower curtains provide a stylish alternative to basic vinyl with the added benefit of better airflow. Choose those with weighted hems or magnets to keep the curtain from blowing in and clinging when the water is on. Water-resistant polyester blends offer durability without promoting mold or mildew like 100% cotton.
Get the Right Number of Shower Curtain Panels
For larger neo-angled walk-ins, a multi-panel shower curtain kit provides full, seamless coverage. This allows the liner to conform to any unique shower layout. Kits with two to five interconnected panels secure gaps with Velcro-type closures. Make sure any multi-panel system you choose is both long and wide enough for complete water containment.
Top-Rated Shower Curtains for Walk-In Showers
Zenna Home Extra-Long Shower Curtain
For standard rectangular walk-ins, Zenna Home's embossed and frosted extra-long vinyl curtain makes an excellent water barrier. At 72 x 84 inches, it accommodates taller showers while providing both durability and easy cleaning convenience. With rust-proof metal grommets, it works great with straight or curved shower rods up to 66 inches long. Choose from opaques and clears with chic pattern prints.
AmazerBath Waffle Weave Shower Curtain
Those desiring a hotel-spa style will appreciate AmazerBath's waffle weave linen-feel polyester-cotton blend curtain. Offering enhanced air circulation to prevent moisture, the textured suede-backed fabric comes in a 71 x 84 inch size perfect for standard walk-ins. Rust-resistant silver grommets combine with four strong magnets for superior stability and containment.
Sunzero Water-Repellent Polyester Shower Curtain
For easy maintenance along with water repellency, Sun Zero's offering makes an excellent choice. The fashionable geo print pattern liner features a durable polyester-nylon blend fabric with special hydrophobic Nanotechnology. This unique water-resistant treatment causes droplets to bead up and glide off while preventing soap scum stains. A 72 x 84 inch size suits most walk-ins.
Clear Vinyl Shower Curtain Liners
Those on a tight budget will appreciate basic vinyl plastic shower curtain liners to protect their walk-in showers affordably. Offered up to extra long 72 x 84 inch lengths from brands like Maytex and LiBa, heavy gauge 8 or 10 mil vinyls provide sufficient durability at bargain prices. Pair with a colorful printed outer curtain for a complete coordinated look.
Shower Curtain Measurement Guide
To make selecting shower curtains for walk-ins easy, follow this simple measurement guide:
Properly Measure Your Shower Base Depth and Width
Use a tape measure to measure the complete interior dimensions of your walk-in shower from wall to wall. For the shower curtain width, add a minimum of 12 inches total to this base measurement. To determine shower liner height, measure from the ceiling down across the entire height of your shower entry opening.
Select an Appropriately Sized Shower Curtain
Based on your precise interior walk-in dimensions, choose an appropriately sized shower curtain allowing at least 6 inches of width coverage per side. For height, pick a size extending from your ceiling height down to at least 8 inches below the shower base for sufficient dripping length.
Pick Extra Fullness If Desired
If you prefer a more billowing shower curtain, look for sizes offering even more width coverage relative to your walk-in size. This provides sufficient room for the liner to puff gently inward when water is spraying without clinging.
Installing Shower Curtains in Walk-Ins
Once you've selected the ideal new shower curtain for your walk-in shower enclosure, proper installation is key. Choose suitable curtain rods, securely fasten all hardware according to directions, neatly hem and hang your fresh liner, and enjoy contained showering convenience for years to come.
Shower Curtain Rod Types for Walk-Ins
Consider a curved rod for extra elbow room. Make sure to select appropriate hardware for your shower walls, choosing between tension rods, existing ceiling supports, over-the-shower brackets, or wall mount end caps with mounted or freestanding rods.
Use Weights or Magnets for Stability
To keep shower curtain liners from clinging when wet or puffing out, use weighted hems or bottom magnets for stability. This helps contain both sound and spray during showering sessions.
Utilize Convenient Space-Saving Hanging Solutions as Needed
For smaller walk-ins, make use of sliding or folding shower curtain rods or ceiling hooks to push liners out of the way when entering or exiting the shower. This prevents accidentally pulling liners down when grabbing for balance.
Caring for Your Walk-In Shower Curtain
To keep any new shower curtain looking and functioning great despite wet and humid conditions, be sure to follow proper care and cleaning methods suitable to the liner's fabric material.
Follow Fabric-Appropriate Washing Instructions
Check your shower curtain's tag for specific laundering directions. While vinyls typically need only an occasional wipe down, natural cloth fabrics may require machine washing at cool temperatures and low dryer heat settings to prevent damage from heat or detergents.
Use Gentle Cleaners to Prevent Soap Scum Buildup
To limit soap scum accumulation on curtain liners between launderings, periodically wipe down gently using warm water mixed with either vinegar or gentle pH-balanced foam cleaner suitable for shower surfaces.
Allow Proper Drying to Deter Mold and Mildew
Pull shower curtains fully open after use for ventilation drying. For cloth liners prone to mildew, use an oscillating fan to keep air circulating. Check periodically for any moldy spots and treat immediately with vinegar, tea tree oil, or other anti-fungal sprays.
For shower curtains with Nanotechnology or other water-repellent coatings, refresh treated surfaces every few months using either commercial renewing sprays or liquid applications. This maintains effective water beading and roll-off properties.