How to choose the right shower curtain
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
The best shower curtain for most homes is a heavyweight fabric curtain paired with a separate PEVA or polyester liner; fabric curtains look better, last longer, and resist mildew when washed occasionally, while a liner keeps water off the floor. Size matters: standard tubs need a 72-by-72-inch curtain, but measure your space first. Avoid cheap vinyl curtains, they offgas, tear easily, and look flimsy.
Fabric vs vinyl shower curtains: which should you choose?
Fabric curtains (polyester, cotton, or blends) are the clear winner for most people. They drape nicely, come in endless colors and patterns, and feel more like a real part of the bathroom. Heavier fabric curtains also resist mildew better because they dry faster and can be tossed in the washing machine. The trade-off is that fabric alone isn’t waterproof, so you must hang a liner behind it to keep water off the floor. Vinyl or PEVA curtains are budget-friendly and inherently waterproof so you can use them without a liner. But they feel thin, stick to you when wet, and often develop a chemical smell that lasts for weeks. They also tear at the hem holes within a year or two. If you need something cheap for a temporary space, a clear PEVA curtain works; for a permanent bathroom, spend the extra few dollars on fabric.
What size shower curtain do you actually need?
The standard shower curtain size for a tub is 72 inches wide and 72 inches long. Most shower rods are about 60 inches wide, and a 72-inch curtain gives enough overlap to keep water inside. For showers without a tub (standalone stalls), a curtain around 72 by 84 inches is more common so it reaches the floor. Measure your rod’s length and the distance from the rod to the floor before buying. If your tub or shower is unusually wide, look for extra-wide curtains (90 or 108 inches wide). Curtains that are too short leave a gap that lets water escape; too long and they drag on the floor and get moldy. Always round up the width by at least 6 inches beyond the rod for proper coverage.
Do you really need a shower curtain liner?
Yes, if you want a fabric curtain to stay dry and last. A liner is a thin, waterproof sheet (usually PEVA, polyester with a waterproof coating, or polyester milliskin) that hangs between the fabric curtain and the water spray. The liner keeps moisture off the fabric, prevents mildew growth, and catches drips that land on the curtain’s inside face. Liners are cheap to replace, and you can wash them in the washing machine with bleach. Some fabric curtains claim to be “water repellent” but still need a liner for full protection. If you use a vinyl curtain with a built-in liner (often called a “two-in-one”), you don’t need a separate liner but you still need to replace the whole thing when it gets grimy.
What are the best materials for mildew resistance?
For a fabric curtain, look for 100% polyester or polyester blends. Cotton curtains feel soft but absorb water and mildew more easily unless treated. Many polyester curtains come with a “top-coat” finish that helps water bead off and prevents mold. Millskin (a smooth, slightly glossy polyester) dries incredibly fast and is very mildew resistant, though it feels less soft. For liners, PEVA is the best budget option, it’s more eco-friendly than PVC and doesn’t smell as much. The next step up is polyester milliskin or a polyester liner with a waterproof backing. These last longer than PEVA and can be machine-washed. Avoid PVC vinyl entirely if you care about odor and longevity. Also, always look for a bottom weighted hem that snaps or has magnets to keep the liner flat against the tub.
How should you clean and care for a shower curtain?
Fabric curtains should go in the washing machine every two to four weeks on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent and a half cup of baking soda or bleach (if the fabric allows). Tumble dry on low or hang back up immediately to prevent wrinkles. Avoid dryer sheets, they leave a residue that reduces water repellency. Vinyl or PEVA curtains can be cleaned in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water and a couple of towels to scrub away mildew. Do not use bleach on PEVA; it may degrade the material. Hang the curtain up after washing so it drips dry. Wipe the curtain rod and rings monthly with a vinegar-water spray to stop mold from spreading. For stubborn mildew spots, a paste of baking soda and water works well.
What about curtain rings, hooks, and weight?
Standard plastic or metal shower curtain hooks work with any curtain that has holes or grommets. Avoid cheap metal hooks that rust, stainless steel or coated metal is better. Fabric curtains with grommets (metal rings reinforced directly into the fabric) are easier to slide than those with just holes, and they last longer. A weighted hem or magnetic bottom on a liner is a huge help. Weighted liners hold their shape, don’t blow into the shower, and keep water off the bathroom floor. If your curtain lacks a weighted bottom, you can add small plastic curtain weights sold at home stores. A curtain that is too light will billow and cling, so choose a medium-weight fabric (around 160 gsm or higher) for proper hang.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the best shower curtain for mildew if I don’t want to wash it often?
A polyester fabric curtain with a top-coat water-repellent finish, combined with a PEVA or polyester liner, will resist mildew best. Replace the liner every few months and spray the curtain with a mildew spray weekly to extend the time between washes.
Can I machine wash a fabric shower curtain with a liner?
Yes, but you should wash them separately unless both are marked machine-washable. Fabric curtains usually can be laundered with mild detergent; liners can go on a gentle cycle with old towels. Never put a curtain with a magnetic hem in a dryer, the heat can ruin the magnets.
How do I measure for a curved shower rod?
Measure the distance from the wall on one side to the wall on the other, along the curved path of the rod. Then add about 6 to 8 inches for overlap. The curtain width should be at least that total, or buy an extra-wide curtain (like 90 inches).
What is a hookless shower curtain and does it work well?
A hookless curtain has built-in sewn-in hooks or loops that slip directly onto the shower rod. They eliminate the need for separate rings and are very easy to install. They work well with metal or straight rods, but if your rod is thick (over 1.5 inches) you’ll need to check compatibility.
Are magnetic shower curtains worth the extra cost?
Magnetic curtains or liners have small magnets sewn into the bottom hem that hold the curtain against the tub or wall. They’re worth the small price bump because they prevent the curtain from billowing and greatly reduce water leaks onto the floor.
How long should a shower curtain last before replacing?
A good fabric curtain can last 2 to 4 years with regular washing and proper care. Vinyl or PEVA curtains usually need replacing every 6 to 12 months because they become brittle, develop mildew spots, and tear easily. Budget fabric curtains in the –20 range often last longer than high-end vinyl ones.