When you don’t have the best shower curtain liner and curtains to match, water sprawls everywhere – and no one likes a slippery bathroom where the floor looks like a swimming pool. Some curtains come with their own liners – but when they don’t, you need to make that investment yourself. Because let’s face it, who doesn’t like having a well-decorated bathroom?
With our shower curtain liners reviews, we hope that we’ll be able to guide you into buying the perfect piece.
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The Difference Between Shower Curtains and Curtain Liners
More often than not, people seem to believe that shower curtains and curtain liners are one and the same thing – but in truth, they are not. In fact, they could not be more different.
1. The Shower Curtain
When you look into a dictionary, you will see the shower curtain described as a curtain you pull across the opening of a shower when you are stepping in (or out) of it. This curtain prevents the water from spraying out while the shower is running.
To put it in an even simpler manner, the shower curtain is that fancy piece that goes outside your shower or tub, keeping the water from slipping out. Normally, these curtains are made from fabric – either canvas, plastic, polyester, silk or satin.
Some are able to repel the water and keep it properly in the shower area – but some are just for show. Silk and satin liners are an example of this, as their whole purpose is to make your bathroom look like that of a five-star hotel. In these cases, you will also need a liner to protect your curtain.
1.1. Advantages of Shower Curtains
Like the shower curtain liner, shower curtains are able to keep the water in the shower or tub area. They also have the ability to add quite a lot of dimensions in the bathroom – particularly if you are using a very stylish one. They are very convenient in shared bathrooms, as they provide the privacy that you need – and they are not as constricting as a shower door.
1.2 Disadvantages of Shower Curtains
The disadvantage of these shower curtains is that they are more susceptible to damage – particularly if you are using soft fabric materials. Plus, since they are prone to getting moldy, they may also require a fair amount of maintenance.
2. The Curtain Liner
As you probably might have realized, a curtain liner is placed on the inner side of the shower area to make sure that the water goes down the drain – not on the floor. These items are made from various different materials – but in most cases, those materials are made to resemble plastic or vinyl. They are also totally different from top-rated sliding shower doors, as they are much easier to maneuver.
You may also get shower curtain liners made from waterproofed fabric such as polyester or cotton – and the advantage of these liners is that they may easily be washed by hand or in the washing machine. If you are lucky enough, you may find a shower liner with an intriguing pattern – and this way, you will not even have to buy the actual curtain anymore.
Shower curtain liners nowadays look very much like shower curtains – which is why many people tend to confuse the two. Shower curtain liners generally do not have any special designs – in most cases, they are either clear or frosted. The “design” part is covered by the curtain.
It’s slightly pricey to have one installed – particularly if you go for a higher-end model. However, if you do connect a shower curtain liner to your shower, it will end up preventing any water “escapes” – and consequently, any mold or dirty spots forming around your shower area.
2.1. Advantages of a Shower Liner
A shower liner will do a better job at keeping the water from spilling than a standard curtain ever will. It will also prevent corrosion outside the shower area, as well as the formation of mold – and you will not have to worry too much about the maintenance. All you will need is a wipe.
2.2. Disadvantages of a Shower Liner
The problem with shower liners is that they might be more troublesome to install compared to a standard curtain – and they might also add to the expense, particularly if you decide to have both the shower and the liner installed.
3. Our Verdict
So, in a nutshell, how are these two different? Well, one goes on the outside, one on the inside. The shower curtain is there to make your bathroom look fancy, whereas the liner is to prevent a lake from forming at your feet. One is there for the design, whereas the other is there for practical purposes. You may use one without the other but ideally, these two should go together.
Best Shower Curtain Liners Comparison Chart
| PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 | Epica Strongest Mildew Resistant Shower Curtain Liner on the Market |
| View On Amazon |
 | LiBa Mildew Resistant Anti-Bacterial PEVA 8G Shower Curtain Liner |
| View On Amazon |
 | iDesign PEVA Plastic Shower Curtain Liner |
| View On Amazon |
 | mDesign – 2 Pack – Waterproof, Mold/Mildew Resistant Curtain Liner |
| View On Amazon |
 | Hookless RBH40BBS01 Polyester Snap-in Shower Curtain Liner |
| View On Amazon |
 | Utopia Bedding 10 GUAGE Heavy Duty Clear Shower Curtain Liner |
| View On Amazon |
 | Croscill Fabric Shower Curtain Liner |
| View On Amazon |
Best Shower Curtain Liner Reviews
1. Epica Strongest Mildew Resistant Shower Curtain Liner on the Market
If you’ve always had a problem with mildew, then this curtain liner might seem like a fairly good investment for you. Made fully out of vinyl, this curtain liner prevents the water from getting out of the shower – and also prevents the mold from sticking onto its surface.
With stainless steel grommets, this curtain liner is unlikely to tear – even after you have used it for quite a long time. Plus, together with the nylon mesh header, this curtain liner features high durability.
This liner may be used with or without a curtain, as it looks very stylish. You only need a curtain if you have privacy issues – but if that is not a problem, then the liner will be efficient while letting the light in.
Pros
- Quite heavy, so it will be stable and not move around
- Sold at an affordable price
- Has a very good aesthetic appeal
Cons
- Not a good option if you need to have some privacy
- May arrive with a temporary strong smell
2. LiBa Mildew Resistant Anti-Bacterial PEVA 8G Shower Curtain Liner
Those of you looking for a good antibacterial curtain liner might greatly appreciate this one. This model, in particular, has a clear, see-through pattern – but if you are in need of some privacy, you can also go for a frosted or fabric model.
Featuring the standard dimensions of every shower curtain, this should efficiently cover the area around your bathtub so that no water splashes around. Plus, since it is made from non-carcinogenic PEVA material, not only is it resistant to bacteria, but it also does not emit any strong odors.
The grommets are rust-resistant – which means that if you provide it the proper maintenance, this liner should last you for quite a long time. Plus, while it is transparent, it is stylish enough to be used with or without a curtain. It even features magnets at the bottom that will keep the liner attached to the tub.
Pros
- Lightweight and can easily be pulled on the rail
- Made from non-toxic materials
- Magnets will keep the liner from moving
- Classy design that looks good with or without a liner
Cons
- The magnets are not very strong
- May let water slip from the shower area
3. iDesign PEVA Plastic Shower Curtain Liner
If you are looking for something with a bit more “substance,” then you might want to give this liner a try. It is not fully transparent, so it’s enough for people not to see what’s going on behind it.
This shower curtain liner in itself is very lightweight, making it very easy for you to pull it over the rod. However, this doesn’t mean that it will start moving around. Since it has magnets on the bottom hem, you may attach it to the tub and will stay put.
Since it is made from PEVA material, this shower curtain liner is very easy to clean. You may drop it in the washing machine if you want – but the easiest way to clean this is to take a wet sponge and some soap, and you can easily do the job.
Pros
- Opacity can give you the privacy that you need
- Easy to maintain and keep clean
- Magnets will keep the curtain liner in place
Cons
- It is prone to mold
- Since it is thin, it is prone to damage
4. mDesign – 2 Pack – Waterproof, Mold/Mildew Resistant Curtain Liner
If you are looking for a shower curtain that is completely waterproof, then this one might be exactly what you are looking for. Made entirely from PEFA and with a clear design, this will reject the water coming towards it and contain it in the shower area.
Since it is clear and see-through, you will get enough light in the shower zone. Plus, if you are bored of the clear design of these shower liners, there is an array of colors that you may choose from – colors that will not be see-through to others stepping into the bathroom.
The hem is weighted with magnets – which means that even if air travels in the shower area, or if water gets on the liner, it will hold its ground. If you have an iron bathtub, it will also get attached to it – making it even more secure against random splashes outside the shower area.
Pros
- Top-quality construction that is resistant to damage
- Weighted hem that keeps the curtain liner secured in its place
- Waterproof design that keeps the water in and allows the liner to dry fast
Cons
- The weighted pockets are not that durable
- They are a bit on the thin side
5. Hookless RBH40BBS01 Polyester Snap-in Shower Curtain Liner
If you do not want to add both a curtain and a curtain liner in your bathroom, then this model should be to your interest. Simply put, this product is actually a curtain – but one that has a liner attached to it as well.
The curtain itself is very easy to install since it has snap-in grommets – this means that you will not have to bother with hooks. This makes it very easy to install and remove, whenever you feel like the need calls for it.
The curtain liner covers about 2/3 of the curtain, and you may unsnap it each time you feel that it needs to be cleaned. You will not have to worry about taking down the entire curtain. Plus, the polyester can easily be washed in the machine, so you do not have to wipe it yourself.
Pros
- Easily snapped on and off
- It provides the privacy that you need
- It can easily be washed in the washing machine
Cons
- The curtain will have to be paid for separately
- Very prone to mildew
6. Utopia Bedding 10 GUAGE Heavy Duty Clear Shower Curtain Liner
If you are looking for a good shower curtain liner made with strong, heavy-duty construction, then this one should be on your list. Many previous users have remarked a high durability rate, particularly around the grommets. The plastic may look relatively thin – but in truth, it is very thick and durable.
The vinyl fabric of this liner has been infused with antibacterial and anti-mildew technology – which means that even without daily or weekly maintenance, it will remain hygienic. You won’t have to concern yourself about any harmful bacteria touching your skin.
This shower curtain liner is also very easy to maintain – it only requires a wipe with a damp cloth and some soap. You may also put the soap or the cleaning agent in a spray bottle, spray it over the curtain, and then use the showerhead to wash off the detergent.
Pros
- Efficiently prevents the formation of mildew and bacteria
- Maintenance on this liner is very simple to do
- Waterproof and very efficient at keeping the water from escaping the shower area
- Very affordable price
Cons
- You can’t opt for a different size
- Has a strong chemical smell upon arrival
7. Croscill Fabric Shower Curtain Liner
If you want something simple and affordable that you can use in place of a shower curtain, this once is certainly up your alley. The main color is white – but if you want, you may opt for the linen option. Both are opaque and will keep you hidden behind the curtain.
Since it is made completely from polyester, it can repel water and it has the ability to dry very quickly in-between showers. Plus, if need be, you can wash it in the washing machine – but make sure that you put it on a gentle cycle. Between washes, you can also use a damp cloth and soap to clean it.
The shower curtain has been weighted at the bottom hem using plastic – which means you will not be “attacked” by the curtain each time you are planning to take a shower. The metal grommets are also very durable – which is why it is likely this shower liner will last for a long time, provided you offer it the correct maintenance.
Pros
- Not see-through, which means it can double as a curtain
- Easy to maintain by hand wiping or washing machine
- Stable thanks to the weighted hem
- The liner is visually appealing
Cons
- Grommets are not really rustproof
- Some water may still come out of the shower area
Shower Curtain Liner Buying Guide
When it comes to buying shower curtain liners, there are a few things that you might want to consider. To make sure that your curtain liner is the perfect one for your bathroom, here is what you might want to keep in mind.
1. Size
Shower curtain liners come in different sizes, which is why you need to ensure that the one you purchase will fit your bathroom perfectly. Technically speaking, it might not be a problem if it is a bit bigger in width than your shower area – but it might get annoying if you continuously stumble upon extra liner. Plus, there’s also a chance that the water might exit through the creases.
On the other hand, if it is too small, it will not be enough to keep the water from spilling outside the shower or bath area. The chances are that you will find the necessary measurements for you – but if you don’t, you may also buy them custom-made.
2. Magnets
Some shower curtain liners have been equipped with magnets at the base so that the water does not slide out. Under normal circumstances, the shower will produce an air blow or movement that can push the curtain away. This action will also give enough space for the water to splash out the shower area.
However, with the magnets, the liner will be kept in a stable position. In some cases, the magnets attach to the metallic base of the shower or bath – but if there is none, then it will simply weigh the curtain down and keep it straight.
3. Suction Cups
While magnets are mostly suitable for metal or iron baths and showers, suction cups are useful when you have an acrylic bathtub, for example. These will keep the liner in place so that the water does not end up on your bathroom floor.
4. Material
You might think that shower curtain liners do not have such a high selection of materials – but the truth is that you have a variety of options to choose from. Do you want to go for vinyl curtain liners? What about polyester options if you are on a budget?
You may also find good shower curtain liners made from fabric if you want to make them more aesthetically pleasing. However, the most popular option is the vinyl liner. It’s the easiest to clean – and while it may not look as attractive, it is certainly very good at its intended job.
5. Color Availability
Most of the time, when you are shopping for shower curtain liners, you will see a lot of white or clear models – but that’s not the only thing that you can get. Granted, the ones without a fancy model will probably be less expensive. Still, if you are not using a shower curtain and you want to make your bathroom look better, you can use only the liner.
The era of boring liners is over. Now, you can get a curtain liner with a beautiful bold color – or one with a fancy or interesting pattern. You can go to dolphins or flowers – or maybe dolphins holding flowers? It’s up to you! If you are creative and patient in your search, you can probably find all kinds of patterns on your liner.
6. Waterproofing
You’d think that since it is a bathroom curtain liner, it should be waterproof – but the truth is that it isn’t always the case. Some are just water-resistant – which means that they soak up the water, making them more prone to bacteria growth.
A waterproof liner will be much easier to clean – in most cases preventing this kind of growth. Also, it does not allow mold and mildew to grow on the surface – keeping your personal hygiene in check.
7. Machine Washable
We live in a time when it is much easier for us to throw things in the washing machine, letting technology do the rest. We never have time for anything else anymore – let alone to wash a big shower curtain liner by hand. The process is troublesome. Not to mention that it’s messy – particularly if you have a very small bathroom.
For this reason, you should make sure that your liner is machine washable. In most cases, fabric liners can be easily thrown in the washer – but you’ll have to be careful with the other materials. Some can be washed at a certain program, others can’t withstand more than a standard, gentle wipe.
8. Attachment
How are you planning to install the curtain liner in your bathroom? Most liners usually go with rings attached to a rail through the curtain grommets – but you may also go for snap-in liners. These may be attached to the curtain itself, provided you install the snaps there as well. Therefore, when you are pulling the curtain, you are pulling the liner as well.
9. Antimicrobial Properties
Think about it this way: the shower is the place where all microbes tend to gather. Add the shower humidity into the mix, and they will be multiplying like there is no tomorrow. If it’s not maintained properly, it will become a focal point for disease.
This is why it is essential that you look for a shower curtain liner that also has antibacterial properties. These shower liners will not only make it more difficult for the bacteria to get attached, but they will also be much easier to clean. This way, you may get a nice and hygienic shower experience.
10. Transparency
If you are buying only a shower curtain liner – without the actual curtain – the chances are that you don’t want everyone to see you take a shower. It might be that the shower was installed in a relatively public area – or it might be that your sibling forgot to take their hairbrush from the shower before you hopped in. So, if you need privacy, you might want to go for something that has a solid, non-see-through color – or at least a semi see-through one.
Shower Curtain Liners Maintenance
It might not look like shower curtain liners need a lot of maintenance – but the truth is that they do. Every liner needs to be cleaned at some point – but the important thing is how you clean it. If you do not clean it correctly, it will lead to the premature deterioration of a perfectly good product.
To make the shower curtain liners look their best for a longer time, you might want to ensure that they are waterproof. The other types may retain water, which can eventually cause marks.
Moreover, to maintain a shower curtain liner, you need to know exactly what you are trying to maintain – specifically, the material. Here is how you can keep your shower area nice and hygienic.
1. PEVA Shower Curtain Liners
If you have PEVA shower curtain liners, you may easily clean them with a sponge or a damp cloth – and you will not even have to take the liner down. Simple mix some water and vinegar in a spray bottle and apply it on the inner side of the liner. After it sat for a couple of minutes, simply wipe it away with the damp cloth.
If you see that mold or stains have formed on the liner, you may want to pick your game up a notch. In these cases, you may have to use bleach – but only if it’s safe for the material. Generally, if it’s PEVA, you may safely use bleach if the liner is white or transparent. However, if it’s colored, you might want to rethink your decision – or at least test it on a small area that is not visible.
Most PEVA shower curtain liners can also be thrown in the washing machine – so, if you don’t like meddling with wiping and stuff, you can simply take them down and let the machine do the rest. However, check the label to ensure that your liner may be safely washed in the washing machine.
2. Vinyl Shower Curtain Liners
Vinyl curtain liners are also easy to maintain, as long as you have a damp sponge or cloth, and a bottle of cleaning solution (the vinegar and water mix works here as well). For more difficult stains, you may also use bleach to remove it – but only if the surface is clear. If it’s colored, it will certainly stain the liner.
Some low-budget liners – even though they have a white or clear color – can get a yellowish hue if you use bleach on them. For this reason, if your only solution seems to be bleach, you might want to test it out on an unnoticeable corner first.
These shower curtain liners should not, by any means, be added in the washing machine. It will damage them, particularly if you place them at a high temperature. The wiping method is technically the only one that should work with this kind of liner.
3. Synthetic Fiber Shower Liners
Maybe you want to go for something made from synthetic fiber. Most of the time, these curtain liners can be cleaned either by wiping or washing them in the washing machine. If you do that regularly, you should be able to keep your bathroom clean and hygienic.
Bear in mind that these liners are more water-resistant than they are waterproof. They absorb the water, preventing it from getting out of the shower area – which is why you will have to leave them open to dry after you take a shower. They will take a much longer time to dry compared to PEVA or vinyl curtain liners.
You can also check different comments on the shower curtain and curtain liner cleaning.
Shower Curtain Liner FAQ
1. How Do You Prevent Mold from Forming on the Shower Curtain Liner?
To prevent mold from forming on the shower curtain liner, you will have to conduct the proper maintenance on the liner and in the bathroom. Every time you take a shower, leave the curtain liner open so that it can dry properly. Also, wash it once every few weeks to ensure that it’s clean of mold.
Since mold is the result of humidity, you might also want to ensure that your bathroom is well ventilated. If you have a window in your bathroom or a ventilation system, turn it on during or at least after you have taken the shower. Clean the bathtub or shower pan regularly, to ensure that no more spores will be sticking onto the tub. You may learn more about maintaining the bathtub/pan by reading through our homepage, where we have all the bathroom information that you need.
2. How Often Should You Wash Your Curtain Liner?
This depends on what you understand by “wash.” Your shower curtain liner should be washed at least once a month (fully), particularly if it is the kind that can be washed in the washing machine. Technically, this should be done more often – but since it is fairly troublesome to continuously take down your shower liner, you have the second method: wiping it.
While you may give your shower liner a full wash every month or so, you should wipe it with a sponge at least every week. To ensure that the microbes won’t stick to the liner, you may even do this after every shower. But most of the time, that is not necessary, and you will only have to clean once a week.
3. Can I Put My Curtain Liner in the Dryer After Washing It?
Under no circumstances should you put your curtain liner in the dryer after you have washed it. There is a great risk that it will be damaged and even ripped – and even if it does not happen, there is a high chance that the liner will shrink during the drying process. If it fits perfectly in your bathroom, the chances are that it won’t fit the same again after you dry it.
Instead of placing it inside the dryer, hang it over the rail in the bathroom – or even outside. The natural air will do all that it’s needed to dry it – without damaging it in the process.
4. When Should I Replace My Shower Curtain Liner?
In a way, this will depend on how well you maintain it. Needless to say, if you do not care for it at all, then you will have to replace it fairly often. With no maintenance, your shower curtain liner will end up smelly, sporting mold marks along with bleach marks. Not to mention the time when you put it in the dryer and it went down three sizes.
A shower curtain liner should rarely be removed. You can buy one now – and with proper maintenance, it should last you for a few years. Granted, you will have to change it eventually – but only if it gets ripped or worn out.
5. Can I Clean My Shower Curtain Liner with Bleach?
As briefly mentioned, in most cases, there is no problem with cleaning your shower curtain liner with bleach – provided the material is not a colored one. If it’s white or clear, you can mix it with water or your detergent, and use a sponge to clean any difficult stains. However, you should not leave it on for too long, as it might end up yellowing the liner instead of making it whiter.
Bleach is also generally safe on white fabric surfaces – but bear in mind that since bleach is a strong chemical, it might end up thinning the fabric. This is why you might want to avoid using bleach very often on your curtains. Use it only in the case of a difficult stain, such as one caused by mold.
Wrap Up
Shower curtain liners represent an essential part of every bathroom. They can protect you from prying eyes, but they can also save you a lot of trouble (e.g. continuously mopping the floor). For that to happen, you will have to invest in the best shower curtain liner.
Hopefully, our reviews helped you find a good option for your bathroom. In a nutshell, make sure that it’s waterproof, easily maintained, and that it covers the entire surface of the open area. Remember, the purpose here is to prevent the water from splashing all over your bathroom floor.
See also: top-rated grout for showers
