Shower Curtains

Choose polyester or treated cotton for a fabric look that resists mildew and is machine-washable; vinyl or PEVA/PE film is waterproof, inexpensive, and easy to wipe clean but may off-gas initially; consider a fabric curtain with a waterproof liner for a balance of style and water protection

Measure the width of your tub or shower opening and the distance from rod to floor; standard curtains are 72 inches wide and 72 inches long, but extra-wide (72–108 inches) and extra-long (up to 96 inches) options exist for wider or taller installations and island or shower-tub combinations

Mildew and water resistance prolongs curtain life and reduces cleaning; look for terms like 'water-repellent,' 'mildew-resistant,' 'quick-dry,' or materials such as coated polyester, PEVA, or vinyl, and check care instructions for machine washability and drying recommendations

A waterproof liner protects outer fabric curtains from direct water exposure; most liners and fabric curtains can be machine washed on gentle cycles with mild detergent and hung to dry or tumble-dried per label instructions to prevent shrinking and maintain water repellency

Look for rust-resistant grommets or reinforced buttonholes, double-stitched hems, weighted bottoms or magnets to reduce billowing, and compatibility with standard shower hooks or rings to ensure longevity and proper hanging

Budget options commonly fall under $50, mid-range fabric or designer styles are often between $50 and $100, and specialty or high-end designer curtains can cost more; prices vary by material, size, and brand

Consider scale, color palette, and texture: large patterns suit bigger bathrooms, neutral or single-color curtains create a calming backdrop, and textured or patterned fabric adds visual interest; coordinate with towels and bath mats for a cohesive look