Choosing a shower curtain may seem like an easy task until you start shopping and discover that there are several sizes, fabrics, prints, and features available. The good news is that, if there’s a new shower curtain in your near future, you’ll find everything you need to know with our guide.
Shower Curtain Sizes
The first thing to know about shower curtain sizes is that there is a primary standard size, which is 72 x 72 inches. This size covers a “standard” tub and shower combination and means the curtain will reach the floor. When pulled across, it’ll cover the tub. There are also two other standard shower curtain sizes:
- 70 x 72 inches
- 70 x 70 inches
What if you don’t have a standard tub and shower? Then you’ll have to look for non-standard shower curtain heights and widths, such as those for:
- Shower stalls – 54 x 78 inches
- Extra-wide showers – 144 x 72 inches
- Very wide tubs – 84 x 74 inches
- Floor-to-ceiling showers – 72 x 96 inches
- Very tall showers – 70 x 84 inches
To ensure the correct size, you’ll first have to measure the width of your shower from wall to wall. Add 12 inches so that the curtain will fold when you pull it closed. Once you have your shower curtain width, stretch your measuring tape from curtain rod to the bathroom floor to determine the height of the shower. You may also have to hang a shower curtain rod if you’re replacing it.
For the correct length, you’ll want to consider curtain rings or hooks (if you’ll be using them), which will take up between 8 and 10 inches. Therefore, subtract this amount from your shower curtain rod height measurement. This will ensure your curtain doesn’t pool on the floor.
Shower Curtain Fabrics
Now that you know what size of shower curtain you need, it’s time to think about fabrics. You can typically find shower curtains made of cotton, vinyl, microfiber, and polyester, each with its own look and feel. So which fabric should you choose?
It really depends on how you want your bathroom to look. For example, soft cotton can be the perfect way to add a little flair, versatility, and ease of maintenance. Cotton is a great choice if you’re planning to also purchase a shower liner.
Maybe you need something easier to maintain and lower cost than cotton. Where this is the case, vinyl checks both boxes. Today’s vinyl shower curtains are also resistant to mold and mildew, which will be important for you if you’re hanging your shower curtain in an always-busy bathroom.
Microfiber is a unique fabric for a shower curtain, which may be just what you’re looking for if you want something different for a guest bathroom. The same is true of polyester, which can be made to look like many fancier fabrics, including satin.
Pattern or Solid?
After you’ve chosen your desired fabric, your next job will be finding the solid color or pattern that suits your bathroom best. Here again, what you choose will depend on the look you’re going for with your bathroom.
Patterns can work very well in bathrooms with solid-colored walls, and busy walls are best with a solid shower curtain. If you really want to show off your shower or a freestanding tub, a bold color or pattern is the way to go; just make sure it goes well with your bathroom’s existing color and decor.
Shower curtains are available in a vast range of prints, giving you plenty of options for matching your shower curtain to your unique style and personality.
Top Types
The top of your shower curtain will be another consideration. A shower curtain with grommets at the top will slide onto the shower rod without the need for hooks. Button hole tops are also very common and will require hooks or rings, which are also available in many colors and styles.
Southwest Florida’s Choice for Bathroom and Shower Renovations
A new shower curtain can instantly transform the look and feel of any bathroom. When your bathroom is ready for remodeling, conversion, renovation, or installation, look no further than Bath Planet by Clear Choice USA of SWFL.
During our free, in-home consultation, we’ll listen to your ideas and goals before assessing which design options will suit you best. You are involved in every step of the process, working with our outstanding and responsive team of professionals to ensure that every desired detail is included. Start your partnership with the Bath Planet team today. Call 239-337-2287.