How to Choose the Right Shower Curtain
A shower curtain anchors your bathroom’s aesthetic and acts as a barrier between the bath and the rest of the room, providing privacy and preventing puddles. Plastic or fabric, patterned or plain—when shopping for shower curtains, options for material and style abound. Explore our Shower Curtain Buying Guide for expert insight into the best materials for shower curtains, standard dimensions for a perfect fit, and style tips for choosing a bathroom accessory that balances visual appeal and practical functionality.
What Is the Best Material for a Shower Curtain?
Cotton, linen, and other natural fabrics are the best materials for shower curtains. While shower curtains can also be made from synthetic materials like vinyl or plastic, those made from natural materials are more environmentally friendly and also offer a range of practical and decorative benefits, including:
- Fabric shower curtains offer more options for texture and finish for a better overall look. Cotton percale is crisp, polished, and clean; sateen features a lustrous finish for a more formal look; and linen shower curtains drape beautifully for a relaxed, elegant appearance.
- Fabric is easy to clean. Always check your product’s care label and follow manufacturer instructions, but most fabric shower curtains are machine washable: Just launder in cold water and tumble dry low.
- Natural materials like cotton and linen are breathable and quick-drying to help prevent excess moisture that can lead to mold and mildew growth.
Do I need a Shower Curtain Liner?
Yes, you need a liner with a fabric shower curtain: A shower curtain is decorative while the liner keeps the water in the shower, instead of all over your floor. For an eco-friendly alternative to a plastic or vinyl liner, which can look cheap and be hard to clean, opt for a mildew-resistant, water-repellent fabric liner that can be laundered when it’s time to freshen things up.
What Are Standard Shower Curtain Sizes?
Most standard shower curtains measure 72 inches by 72 inches, although you may find options that vary by a couple of inches in length or width. You might need a uniquely sized shower curtain if you have a larger-than-average tub, or a smaller stall-style shower without a glass door. Non-standard shower curtain sizes are available in limited fabric, color, or pattern options—it’s best to determine what size shower curtain you need before you commit to a design.
How to Measure for a Shower Curtain
To determine whether a standard shower curtain will work in your space, measure the width of your tub or shower stall. A shower curtain should be about 12 inches wider than your tub or shower opening, which allows for a loosely pleated drape. Standard shower curtains are the right width to fit most bathtubs and showers. Because a shower curtain rod can be hung at variable heights, you do not need to worry as much about the length measurement—any standard size should do.
Should a Shower Curtain Touch the Floor?
Shower curtains should be hung so they fall 3 to 5 inches above the bathroom floor to prevent the curtain from picking up dirt or water. Generally, hang a shower curtain rod about 80 to 82 inches above the floor to account for this clearance and your shower curtain rings.
Shower Curtain Decorating Ideas
A shower curtain helps establish your bathroom style, so consider the aesthetic you’d like to achieve as you choose yours. Let these ideas serve as inspiration for selecting your next shower curtain.
- Keep it classic. A simple solid white or ivory shower curtain imparts elegant spa-inspired style to your space. To up the anté and evoke the feel of your favorite hotel bathroom, choose a crisp white shower curtain with a contrasting border in a bold but neutral hue.
- Coordinate your shower curtain with the bedroom’s comforter or duvet cover. Many of our collections include patterned shower curtains that showcase the same exclusive prints as our bedding, helping you create an effortless, cohesive look for your space.
- Imbue seasonal spirit with a festive shower curtain. Choose neutral white, ivory, beige, or gray bath linens boasting goes-with-anything versatility, then swap your shower curtain as seasons change— colorful florals for spring, a fun beach-inspired design for summer, deep jewel tones for autumn, and holiday prints that brighten winter’s short days.
- Choose a bold floral or geometric pattern and let your shower curtain be the focal point. Then, pull colors from the print for your bath towels, bath mat, and other linens and decor.
- Add interest to a monochromatic bathroom design by choosing a subtly textured shower curtain. Relaxed linen, elegant matelassé, or a waffle-inspired weave enhance solid hues with just enough eye-catching dimension to make the space feel complete.
- For the kids’ bathroom, think bright, rainbow hues, playful patterns, or fun prints that get their imaginations going and suit their sparkling personalities. Bonus points: Choose a shower curtain in a similar theme as our kids’ hooded towels to create an extra-fun space.
Choosing a shower curtain in the right style and material can significantly impact the look of your bathroom. Complete the space with high-quality bath linens, practical storage and accessories, and lighting elements. For more tips on outfitting your home with the highest quality textiles and decor, explore our other Guides.