How to choose the best shower curtain
The first thing to consider is the material in order to choose one that’s durable and easy to care for. There are three main types – natural fabric, polyester and plastic. Natural fabrics like cotton are good because you can pop them in the washing machine but they can be expensive and you also need to make sure you buy a shower curtain with a protective liner to stay dry and mildew free. Polyester is a good option if you don’t want to spend too much. Shower curtains made from polyester are also machine washable, quick drying and water-repellant and tend to last a long time. Plastic curtains are usually the cheapest option but they’re not suitable to throw in the washing machine and instead need to be wiped regularly.
The shower curtain’s style, colour and pattern is a matter of personal taste but natural fabrics tend to hang better than plastic.
Is a fabric or a plastic shower curtain better?
As mentioned above a fabric shower curtain can be popped in the washing machine and tends to last longer than a plastic shower curtain as it can't always be machine washed and may need replacing more often. Plastic is the most waterproof material for shower curtains though.
What is the best way to clean a shower curtain?
Cleaning experts Molly Maids suggest the following steps for cleaning your shower curtain:
1) Remove your shower curtain from the rail 2) Place it in your washing machine and set it to the largest load setting 3) Add a couple of drops of laundry detergent and 250ml of white vinegar 4) Toss in your cloth shower curtain on a gentle setting 5) Once the cycle is complete, hang your curtain back on the rod to air dry
Some Mumsnetters recommend adding Zoflora. to the drum too. If the shower curtain isn’t machine washable, you should be able to wipe it down with a damp cloth. Using Vanish has also been recommended on the forums.
You can find more advice on how to wash plastic shower curtains here.
What is the best shower curtain to buy?
We think the iDesign Shower Curtain Liner is the best shower curtain you can buy right now. It does exactly what it needs to. The quick-drying PEVA vinyl material is odourless, chlorine- and PVC-free and only needs a quick clean with a damp cloth to stay mould-free for years. All of these attributes make it our best buy.