Bathroom curtains: types, characteristics, installation and care

Imitating a shower stall using special curtains is not only convenient, but also very practical, and if you like to take a shower, but don’t want splashes scattered throughout the bathroom, it’s time for you to buy bathroom curtains.

According to manufacturer statistics, every second owner of an apartment or private house purchases curtains for the bathroom. This is a kind of space delimiter, with the help of which it is very easy to arrange a comfortable shower stall in the bathroom itself.

Today we would like to raise this topic and devote a few lines to it, since not every person understands the comfort of such a curtain, its advantages, and also does not know what kind of bathroom curtains are on sale.

Why do you need a curtain in the bathroom?

At first glance, the curtain performs only the function of preventing moisture from getting onto the floor. But, in fact, it plays an important role in the zoning of the room. This is especially true for a combined bathroom. By retiring behind a thick, opaque curtain, you can recreate your own cozy microclimate and atmosphere of privacy.

Also, a bathroom curtain is a decorative accent in the interior. The modern market is rich in a choice of different textures, quality and colors. Thanks to which you can refresh or radically change the situation. Create a mood or change the style. In specialized stores you can find many design solutions; in order to decide and choose the best, you need to know the features of each type.

Pros and cons of fabric curtains for the bathroom

Fears that a fabric curtain will quickly become unusable are unfounded. The material has a special impregnation with water-repellent properties. This allows you to create comfortable conditions during water procedures and protect the curtain from constant wetting and damage.

In order for them to serve for a long time, be pleasing to the eye and cope well with the main functions, you need to take into account their features.

Fabric curtains have other advantages that you should know about when purchasing a product:

• are distinguished by a variety of shapes and colors, patterns and ornaments;
• may have additional decorative elements in the form of frills, ruffles, contrasting color inserts;
• soft and pleasant to the touch;
• the composition does not contain components that adversely affect the health of not only adults, but also children;
• have an affordable democratic price;
• are easy to care for.

For their production, high-quality materials are used that fully comply with quality and safety requirements. The most commonly used in their manufacture are:

• environmentally friendly cotton using special impregnation;
• polyester – with high water-repellent properties, without foreign unpleasant odors;
• cotton and polyester, combining all the best properties of both materials.

No defects were found in high quality products.

The curtain in the bathroom not only serves to protect against moisture, but also has an important decorative function.

Soft curtains

The most popular type of bathroom curtain. Mainly due to its availability, ease of installation and variety of choice. A distinctive feature of soft curtains is their ability to quickly and without the use of any tools change the overall style of the bathroom. Manufacturers offer several types of soft curtains, differing in the base material.

Vinyl

An affordable curtain option that is superior to other types in strength and durability. They have a pleasant texture and resistance to the formation of various fungi and mold. They do not tolerate exposure to high temperatures. When choosing, you must take into account the composition from which the curtains are made.

It is important to know! PVC curtains contain chlorine in their structure, which can form dioxin.

A low-quality product can cause irreparable harm to health. But models labeled EVA and PEVA are distinguished by safe dyes and are odorless.

Advantages:

• retain their original shape;
• do not absorb moisture and dry quickly;
• do not wrinkle and straighten quickly under their own weight;
• easy to clean with detergents;
• varied design;
• availability;
• do not lose color saturation when washed.

Textile

Despite the name, it is based on a synthetic material - polyester. More expensive designer models are made using natural linen and cotton. To make bathroom curtains water-repellent, all blanks are treated with a special polymer impregnation. In this regard, it is worth remembering that with each wash the water-repellent layer will become thinner. Therefore, it is recommended to clean textile curtains by wiping with soapy water.

Advantages:

• preservation of shape thanks to weighting along the lower edge and inserts along the upper;
• variety of designs (silk effect, jacquard, organza inserts, embossing, natural fabrics);
• waterproof;
• environmental friendliness and naturalness;
• ease of care.

Made from polyester

A fairly common type of curtain. Polyester is odorless and does not have a negative effect when in contact with the skin. This is achieved through processing in several stages. Of course, we are talking about a high-quality copy. There are many unscrupulous counterfeits on the market, characterized by a persistently unpleasant odor.

Advantages:

• affordable price;
• durability with proper use;
• resistance to stains;
• dries quickly;
• do not wrinkle or stretch;
• wide choice of colors and designs;
• good water repellency.

Polyethylene

The most budget option from all the variety of choices. It has a low ability to withstand mechanical damage. Bathroom curtains trap dirt and soap residue (except for rubberized models), although they are easy to wash.

Advantages:

• low cost;
• variety of colors and patterns;
• variety of sizes;
• ease of care;
• resistance to prolonged exposure to moisture.

With 3D pattern

A special type of vinyl curtains for the bathroom that can give the interior a unique look. When purchasing voluminous curtains, you should take into account the dimensions of the room. So, for a small bathroom you should not choose models with bright accents and large ornaments. In a combined bathroom, it is worth separating the bath with an opaque curtain with a geometric pattern or perspective.

Advantages:

• resistance to fading;
• variety of design;
• ease of cleaning;
• the ability to maintain its original appearance for a long time;
• moisture resistance.

Materials used for manufacturing

The entire variety of curtains for bathrooms offered on trading platforms, depending on the materials used, can be divided into two large categories. In turn, they include several varieties.

Soft designs

Soft models include all types of curtains, which are made from the following materials:

• Curtains from fabrics. In no case should one assume that absolutely any piece of fabric that matches the pattern and shade of your room can be used as a protective screen. Only a special polyester fabric impregnated with a special water-repellent composition can properly isolate a wet area. This is explained by the fact that natural fabrics simply cannot withstand regular exposure to moisture, and the process of formation and reproduction of various fungi and bacteria will soon begin on their surface. The exception is expensive designer models made of linen or other natural fabric impregnated with special solutions. Fabric curtains are very pleasant to the touch. Many models have a weight on the bottom edge. This allows the curtain to keep its shape and maintain its desired position. The upper edge is also reinforced so that the fastening elements hold tightly, the curtain does not slip out under its own weight, and there are no marks left from the sharp teeth of the iron “crocodiles”. This type of curtain can be washed in a washing machine at a temperature of no more than 30 degrees and even ironed at low temperatures. Term their services with proper care can reach the figure 12 years old. This was reflected in their not the most democratic cost.
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• Curtains made of polyethylene . This is the most affordable, but at the same time the most impractical type of curtains. Traces of exposure to detergents quickly appear on it, and if handled carelessly, they are easy to tear. But, despite their short service life, they are still popular due to the wide variety of colors and low cost. They can be either transparent or vice versa. Be plain or have absolutely any pattern. Probably, this variability of design captivates many consumers. One statement can still benefit them - they cope with their main function, waterproofing, excellently.
• Curtains from vinyl. This material is based on high strength polyvinyl chloride. Three types of this material are used - PVC (PVC), EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) or PEVA (polyethylene vinyl acetate). Let's see if there is differences between them, because they can affect your health. PVC contains chlorine, which is known for its poisonous influence on the body. In addition to this harmful substance in the composition, PVC also contributes to the formation of a known carcinogen - dioxin. More than 108 harmful volatile organic substances can be emitted by a curtain made of low-quality PVC. Among them: toluene, ethylbenzene, phenol, xylene, acetophenol and many others. Be sure to check exactly what the curtain is made of before purchasing. Materials EVA and PEVA contain 10 times less harmful substances and do not have an unpleasant odor. The pattern is applied to their surface with special, health-safe, durable dyes. Over time, they do not lose their brightness and saturation. In addition to the distinctive composition, there are differences in density material. EVA is considered the densest, but differences in density do not affect the strength of the product. In terms of its characteristics, vinyl is superior even to fabric models, which have a fairly long service life. This material is very pleasant to the touch. It retains its shape well, does not absorb moisture at all, does not stretch, dries quickly, but is very pliable. This type of curtain can be washed by hand at a temperature of no more than 40 degrees, but under no circumstances should it be wrung out or ironed. They will return to their original shape under their own weight. Persistent stains are not an indicator that it is time to change the curtain, because they can be easily washed with chlorine-based detergents. The surface of this material does not absorb dirt and is not a suitable environment for mold to form. It should be noted that the varied design vinyl curtains. Their surface may have a relief, but remain transparent. It can also replicate the color of natural stone or very realistically imitate expensive silk fabric. Very popular are models that depict reproductions of paintings by famous artists. You can find striped curtains, with various geometric patterns or floral prints. In general, everything your heart desires. This type of curtain will not only be very practical and durable, but will also complement absolutely any interior solution. Despite all the advantages, the cost of vinyl screens remains affordable.

Having analyzed the three main types of soft curtains for the bathroom, we can conclude that polyethylene curtains are suitable only for those who quickly get bored with the monotony and regularly have a desire to change something in the interior. More practical and regular people, of course, will give preference to the first and last version of the products. The safest product in the last group will be a screen made of PEVA.

Rigid structures

They have characteristic differences from soft structures, which include not only the material used for their manufacture, but also the installation method. At the moment, only two types of material are used:

• Plastic – a lightweight synthetic material that is able to hold a given shape. The first plastic curtains appeared simultaneously with the release of the first shower stalls. It is very easy to apply any design to a plastic surface; due to its flexibility, curtains can have not only a strict rectilinear shape, but also various bends and curved sections. Thanks to this property of plastic, you can find stunning designer models of the most incredible shapes. The interior of a bathroom with such a curtain will be unique, and its cost will not be too exorbitant. TO shortcomings Plastic products can be attributed to their fragility. If there is an accidental impact, a crack will easily form on its surface or a small fragment will break off. Over time, streaks or cloudiness appear on the surface caused by constant contact with hard water and detergents. To avoid unwanted contamination, it is necessary to wipe the curtain dry every time after taking a bath. The first couple of times you will do this with some enthusiasm, but over time it will become quite tiring and annoying.

• Glass – a more noble material, and also environmentally friendly. Glass products can be classified as classic. This material is used everywhere. The durability and hygiene of glass products attracts many consumers. Needless to say, glass curtains are almost invisible, airy and weightless. They do not clutter up the space, do not make it heavier, but do an excellent job with the assigned tasks. The feeling of using such a product is slightly spoiled by the need for careful and regular care. After all, any, even the smallest soap stain will be very noticeable on a transparent surface. To simplify this point, modern manufacturers coat their products with a thin layer special anti-plague coverings. The difference is significant - drops of water will no longer leave traces in the form of limescale, and various contaminants will simply be repelled from the surface. It's not just in terms of maintenance that glass has surpassed plastic. It does not become cloudy even after many years, as it is not subject to aging. You will not see on the surface signs of material fatigue in the form of a network of thin cracks that can cover plastic. If you somehow manage to break a tempered glass curtain, then the possibility of injury will be zero. The material does not form sharp fragments, but breaks up into small round fragments. TO shortcomings glass products can be attributed to significant weight, high cost and inability to bend. If you need to make a curtain of a non-standard configuration, this will only be possible with an individual order, and the cost will be high. Tempered glass products are subject to destruction, but only with a very strong blow to the end.

Rigid curtains

If soft curtains perform a decorative function in the interior, then hard screens can become a full-fledged attribute of the decor. They are monolithic, laconic, and can give a simple room a modern, stylish and more expensive look. At the moment, only two material options are capable of fulfilling the role of a full-fledged structure. Capable of turning an ordinary shower tray or font into a sealed cabin. These are glass and plastic, which have their own advantages and nuances.

Advantages of choosing hard screens:

• laconic design;
• ease of care (many models already have a special composition applied - an anti-plug coating, soap drops and dirt will flow down the surface without leaving marks);
• reliable protection of the floor and furniture from water (unlike soft curtains, almost complete tightness is achieved);
• durability;
• resistance to fungus and mold.

Plastic models

Plastic has proven itself to be a lightweight and inexpensive material. In terms of functionality, reliability, external data and design solutions, it is not inferior to glass screens. The main advantages of plastic structures include decent moisture resistance, safety, ease of operation and a variety of design options. Plastic models easily change shape, and therefore are able to follow the contours of even complex versions of the bathtub bowl.

At the same time, plastic is quite fragile and even with a small mechanical impact, damage to the surface is possible. The exception is models made of PVC and polycarbonate. The latter can be executed as an imitation of natural material. Also, due to high humidity and exposure to soap, the surface becomes cloudy and yellow. Careful care will help resolve this problem.

Glass models

Glass screens combine simplicity and elegance. Transparent designs can give a richer look to even a discreet room. At the same time, glass models will add volume to a compact bathroom, and air and lightness to a too dark one. The list of advantages includes strength, waterproofness, versatility (suitable for absolutely any style), durability. All modern models are made of tempered glass and are safe, even in cases of strong pressure or impact. Additionally, glass models are covered with a film that keeps small fragments from scattering in the event of a split.

Despite the strength, various design options are possible. There are even folding glass structures available. But due to its impressive weight, preference is still given to retractable or stationary screens. It is possible to apply a pattern or additional texture to the glass itself. The design options include framed and frameless types. The latter fit more harmoniously and airily into the interior.

Glass curtains for the bathroom

A glass bathroom curtain is by far the most reliable and durable. Despite the high cost, more and more people are choosing glass curtains. Glass curtains for the bathroom have the following properties:

• glass for the bathroom is the most practical material, as it withstands large temperature changes, does not grow fungus, and a special coating protects against plaque and clouding;
• such a curtain for the bathroom is safe because the curtains are made from tempered glass, which can withstand shocks and mechanical damage;
• the material is durable, it does not deform, does not fade or rot;
• As a decor, a glass curtain in the bathroom always looks impressive and aesthetically pleasing, while it visually expands the space of the room;
• glass curtains have a variety of textures and colors: transparent and fully tinted, with a matte or bright pattern.

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Despite the fact that glass curtains for the bathroom are quite easy to attach, it is better to leave the work of installing this structure to plumbers.

Curtain options by fastening type

To attach soft curtains, you must use a cornice. Plastic, telescopic is relevant for a budget installation option. It is characterized by ease of installation, robust design and accessibility. An alternative is a metal hollow tube. To extend its service life, it is treated with a special compound, after which the cornice is able to resist corrosion. Or initially stainless steel with chrome plating is used.

For every interior there is an opportunity to choose the ideal barbell. The options for budget plastic models are varied - square, round or rectangular. Can be found in different colors. In order to organically attach the curtain to them, various types of fastenings are used, which have their own characteristics and nuances.

On the eyelets

The most aesthetic and expensive option. Mainly used in fabric curtains. And it consists of holes framed by metal plates. A cornice is inserted into these holes. Thanks to the increased diameter, smooth sliding and wavy folds are achieved.

On hooks

It is assumed that there are additional small holes on the curtain. They are usually reinforced with metal plates or thicker fabric. One part of the hook is threaded through these holes, the other is attached to the cornice.

On the rings

A similar option using hooks. Only oblong rings are inserted into the holes, and then they are put on the cornice. The most popular due to their low price.

With magnets

Suitable for attaching not too massive curtains. They have decorations in the form of decorative elements that cover magnets. They are loops with magnetic ends that are threaded onto a curtain rod. And then the curtain is evenly attached.

On chains

The most rarely tested option, as it requires a high ceiling. For this type of fastening, it is necessary to install the cornice as high as possible. Then rings with chains are put on the resulting base. The curtain is attached using alligator clips, which are equipped at the other end of the chain.

Original and beautiful ideas for curtains in the bathroom interior with photos

Original bathroom curtains can add bright colors to any interior. But you should approach their choice very carefully; sometimes they can reduce the cost of the entire image. For example, if your bathroom is designed in an antique or luxury style, then polyethylene curtains with a daisy pattern will clearly ruin the whole look.

A textile bathroom curtain will definitely give the bathroom the effect of chic and luxury.

Unusual curtains for the bathroom are a great idea for a gift, but when purchasing such a gift, you must know exactly what style your friend’s bathroom is decorated in and have a good understanding of the intricacies of design. To do this, it is not necessary to study a lot of design literature; it is enough to follow fashion trends and have a sense of taste. You can also always get inspired by ideas from the Internet.

The choice of curtains for the bathroom is so wide that everyone can choose what they like and suit the overall design.

Types of curtains

The variety of curtains for the bathroom is not limited to the choice of material or color scheme. Manufacturers offer different designs, both soft structures and hard screens.

Straight-line

The most familiar and common option for a bathroom curtain. As the name suggests, they are shaped like a simple rectangle. Presented in a range of glass, plastic and various designs of soft curtains.

Rolled

The popularity of this species is only gaining momentum. The functionality and material of manufacture completely coincides with the soft variations. A distinctive feature is control using a familiar chain or an automated spring. The bathroom design will turn out to be non-standard and exclusive thanks to the choice of mini-cassette curtains that can be assembled into a roll. And the variety of patterns and colors will allow you to fit into any style.

Swing

Glass or plastic screens of this design can only be afforded by owners of spacious apartments. Because when opened, the door will take up a lot of space. But at the same time, curtains of this type have a stylish design that disappears into the air. They allow you to divide the space without overloading with unnecessary details. All fittings are placed directly on the glass sheets.

Advantages:

• affordable price for its segment;
• ease of maintenance due to the absence of rigid complex frames and fastenings;
• universality of use both for a shower cabin and in a traditional font.

Folding

Compact and convenient design, made mainly of plastic, due to the massiveness of the frame and the number of doors. Allows you to ergonomically follow the shape of a complex bathtub. Due to the large weight, it is recommended to mount directly to the wall, so the structure will become rigid and reliable. Installation is best left to professionals due to the complexity of execution.

Advantages:

• excellent splash protection with a compact folded size;
• universal in use, both in complex shapes of traditional bowls and in corner showers;
• Easy to maintain, just wipe the doors after water treatments.

Retractable

A model that will fit seamlessly into both a spacious room and a compact bathroom space. It is a wardrobe type design. Such curtains can be made in two variations: with sliding along the grooves at the bottom or with a roller mechanism at the top.

The design equipped with rollers has advantages over similar ones with grooves. Such doors do not “stick”, do not collect dirt and excess moisture in the fasteners, and are not difficult to install.

Advantages:

• the design has almost complete tightness and is able to protect surrounding surfaces and furniture, even when using the “tropical shower” system;
• universal and flexible in shaping, used in standard, semicircular and square fonts;
• It is easy to maintain, the only point in caring for the fixing sealant is to prevent the formation of mold.

Corner

The main feature is the ability to perform in curved variations. Such designs clearly follow the contour of the bathroom, so they are ideal for use in corner tubs and showers. They may differ in design: folding, sliding or swing doors. They are usually made without a frame, can be made of glass or polycarbonate and are mounted with a blind part directly to the wall.

Advantages:

• curved shapes completely follow the contours of the bathtub bowl, which allows you to protect the surrounding space from moisture;
• variety of execution;
• stylish and laconic design.

Each of the presented options has its own strengths, so the choice depends only on the preferences of the buyer. But the specifics of the construction material, especially for glass screens, bear a certain responsibility. It is necessary to take into account the weight of the structure when choosing the installation method. When installing complex variations, such as a retractable or glass accordion, you should entrust the installation to professionals. Also, you should not do the work yourself on hot tubs made from natural materials.

What factors influence the choice of material

The choice of material for curtains should be based not only on the cost of the finished product, but also on its compatibility with the overall interior. We are talking about the stylistic features of your bathroom.

• If the room is decorated in Provence or another romantic style, with light-colored walls and ceilings, then a curtain made of ordinary polyethylene will instantly spoil the feeling of lightness and comfort inherent in this style. A textile curtain with a floral print in pastel colors is more suitable here. The shade of the picture may overlap with individual elements of the interior. Many styles have or end in frills and ruffles along the top edge. This option will be the most suitable.
• For discreet modern interiors in a minimalist style or loft A glass curtain would be an ideal addition. She will not draw attention to herself and will not spoil the decor with inappropriate ornaments.

• For the eco style, which is becoming more and more popular every day, both textile and glass screens are suitable. Glass will emphasize the naturalness of the interior. And textiles will make it softer and more comfortable. In this case, the background of the product may have the color of natural fibers and have a floral pattern in soft, green shades.
• Plastic curtains are suitable for bathrooms decorated in Scandinavian style. After all, these interiors are characterized by their simplicity and versatility.
• Classic rooms should be supplemented with fabric curtains that imitate heavy, luxurious fabric. For added effect, you can tie up the curtain with a decorative garter when it is not in use. A little gold or bronze shades will add chic, but will not look vulgar.

• Interiors in the Art Nouveau are easily recognizable due to the presence of a large number of curved lines and furniture of non-standard shapes. Plastic curtains can take the necessary shape with enviable ease. That is why they are favorites of many designers. Only their surface should not remain transparent or simply matte. Wood is the predominant material in this style. Therefore, if the furniture in the bathroom is made with imitation wood, let the surface of the curtain have a similar color.
• polyethylene curtain is suitable for bathrooms that do not have a distinctive style and whose color scheme is neutral. Not everyone decides to make the walls of the room bright red or orange, fearing that such decoration will quickly become boring. In such cases, you can diversify and add color using affordable and varied curtains made of this material.

As for such characteristics as the length of the product. The curtain can only reach the sides of the bathtub, which is not very practical, because its edges must extend at least 10 cm beyond them for reliable protection. The curtain can reach the middle of the bath or almost to the floor. The width of the curtain should be 15-20 cm longer than the bath itself.

Tips for choosing curtains

When choosing a design for a usually small but frequently used room, like a bathroom, you should adhere to certain tips and recommendations:

• It is worth taking a responsible approach to the choice of fastening. For soft curtains, preference should be given to reliable options with eyelets or high-quality rings. The installation of heavy glass structures should be entrusted to professionals, selecting proven fittings;
• if you plan to remodel the room or change its style, you should choose soft curtains. Rigid structures are suitable for many years of use;
• Do not overload a small room with large ornaments and bright colors. This will visually reduce the space even more and create the impression of bad taste. Laconic designs in soothing colors are the ideal solution;
• Before purchasing, you should decide on the size of the canvas. It is unacceptable to lower the curtain to the floor. If you plan to use fastenings on chains, it is worth securing the bar right under the ceiling;
• When choosing soft curtains, give preference to quality materials. Unscrupulous and cheap execution may pose a risk of injury or ill health;
• It is worth considering the material of the bathroom walls. Heavy structures are not suitable for a room with plasterboard partitions;
• You should choose a curtain based on the general stylistic direction of the interior.

Whatever style and version of the curtain is chosen, the main thing is that it fits harmoniously into the overall picture of the bathroom. Glass screens or plastic curtains - the modern market will offer an option for any budget and taste preference. And in order for curtains or rigid structures to last as long as possible, it is worth taking installation and care responsibly.

How to choose the right one

With all the breadth of choice of products and accessories for the bathroom, a special place is occupied by the correct selection of fabric curtains.

The inability of the material to get wet is an important condition for a comfortable water procedure. Most of the products in this group fully comply with this requirement, however, there are fakes, the purchase of which will bring a lot of unpleasant moments to the owners.

The size of the curtain is selected depending on the size of the bathroom and the desired decorative effect.

Important! If you have any doubts about the water-repellent properties of textile curtains, you should contact your sales consultant for clarification.

In order to make the right choice and purchase a quality product, you need to know what additional aspects you need to pay attention to, having clarified the issue of water-repellent properties. Good quality curtains do not have an unpleasant chemical smell, and also:

• the bottom of the product is equipped with magnets or a chain that does not allow the fabric to wrinkle and deform;
• the upper part of the product must be processed with a double seam;
• The material around the mounting holes must be carefully processed and has a strong stitching;
• the bottom edge has the necessary well-finished hem.

Photo ideas for curtains in the bathroom