5 Expert Tips To Choose A Shower Curtain

The standard size for shower curtains is 72x72 inches. This will work in most bathrooms unless your shower was custom-made.

If that's the case, measure its height (from the rail to the floor) and keep this in mind:

• Your shower curtains should come around 12 inches down from the side of your bathtub in order to avoid a wet mess;
• However, they shouldn't actually touch the floor! Aim for at least 2 inches between their hem and the bathroom floor: shorter curtains result in a more casual look, whereas longer ones are more elegant.

Some materials will undeniably work better with certain décors, but make sure you consider washability, too:

Vinyl

• Vinyl is one of the most popular and affordable options, available in lots of designs;
• It's not the most elegant, but, being water repellant, it's incredibly low-maintenance, as mold and mildew are far less likely (best choice if you value practicality above anything else!);
• You should still wash them at least once per season;

Polyester

• Polyester curtains are another budget-friendly option with lots of designs to choose from, and are better if you'd prefer a fabric feel;

• They're easy to wash and, while they're always waterproof, they may or may not be water repellent, so it's always best to check the label and wash them accordingly;

Cotton

• Cotton is a natural, beautiful alternative that will give your bathroom a fancier feel;
• These curtains are more expensive but much more durable;
• Because cotton absorbs moisture, you should wash them once a month, and it's better to buy a plastic or vinyl liner to protect them from the water;

Other options

• If you're after a natural fabric, you could also consider other organic options such as linen and hemp. These curtains will give your bathroom a stunning look and showcase your eco-conscious spirit, but they will need particular care, a liner and frequent washing.

• We also recommend looking for curtains that come with an anti-bacterial and anti-mildew coating, which will protect them from the damaging effects of humid and damp environments.

Patterned designs will do a better job at sprucing up your bathroom if you mainly have white or monochrome units, or if you're going for a specific theme rather than a décor style (e.g. maritime);

Monochrome curtains will avoid color-clashing disasters if your bathroom already has plenty of different tones and patterns, helping you keep its palette consistent.

• If you aren't still traumatized by the shower scene in Psycho, hooks can help you achieve a more vintage, old-style look;
• Hookless curtains are undoubtedly more modern and versatile, making it easier to complement different décors.

• Opt for hookless shower curtains (either monochrome or with regular geometric patterns) that match your bathroom's accent color to achieve a modern feel;
• Monochrome curtains are perfect for minimalist bathrooms;
• Consider organic materials and stick to monochrome or a simple two-color pattern in a natural palette (e.g. white, gray, forest green, dark blue, yellow) for a Scandinavian look;
• For a shabby chic or French country style, go the opposite way: choose long, decorative fabric curtains with intricate or flower patterns, white or light pastel colors, and elegant ruffled hems;
• Hooks and bold geometric patterns are great at immediately conveying a mid-Century modern feel;
• To complement a bare industrial bathroom, opt for hooks and monochrome vinyl curtains in white, black or wooden-like brown; or… why not show off your commitment to this raw style by choosing prints of its signature elements, such as hanging bulbs and corrugated metal?
• Exotic or spiritual patterns (like mandalas) and eclectic textures are ideal for a colorful bohemian décor.