Buying a shower curtain can be the most important decor decision when redecorating a bathroom. A shower curtain can add pizzazz to what can be a rather boring part of the bathroom – the bathtub. It can be used to add color, texture, and softness to the overall décor, but it also functions as a barrier to keep the water in the tub. It is important to choose a curtain that can handle the constant exposure to water and heat which can lead to mildew.
Should You Choose Fabric Or Vinyl?
Shower curtains can be purchased in a wide range of fabrics and vinyl. Vinyl curtains are a less expensive choice and are produced in vibrant colors, themes, and characters. These curtains are fantastic in a child's bathroom or guest bath. They can be easily wiped clean.
Fabric curtains are generally more expensive than vinyl, but they offer softness and many style options. When using a fabric curtain, it is important to either ensure that the curtain doesn't get wet or choose a curtain that is machine washable. A transverse or double rod is usually used with a fabric curtain. This allows the curtain to remain stationary and the liner can be pulled open and closed.
What About Wear And Tear?
Whether you choose a fabric or vinyl shower curtain, there are some things you should consider first. As mildew is likely to occur, choose a curtain that is machine washable or can be easily wiped clean. Check the stitching on your curtain. Double stitching will be more durable and keep the curtain from fraying. Because curtains a hung by hooks from a rod, it is important to purchase a curtain with grommets at all hook points. These grommets will keep the curtain from ripping when moist or after prolonged use.
Do You Need a Liner If You Use a Curtain?
A shower curtain liner is imperative to not only protect your curtain, but to better provide a barrier against shower leakage. The shower curtain liner you choose should share some of the wear and tear characteristics of your curtain. If it is used behind a vinyl curtain, it should be white, beige, or a pale color to let in light. Behind a fabric curtain, it should be a complementary color. It should also be double stitched and have grommets.
A higher quality liner will also have magnets in the bottom to add weight to hold it inside the tub. Liners also come in a variety of materials such as plastic, vinyl, and fabric. The vinyl and plastic liners can be wiped clean while the fabric liner should be machine washable. There are liners that are mold and mildew resistant and this is a particularly desirable trait.
You spent a lot of time, money, and energy coming up with a design plan for your bathroom. You purchased new fixtures, painted the walls, and laid new flooring, but nothing finishes off your bathroom as well as buying a shower curtain.
