Is Having A Shower Curtain Liner Really Necessary?

If you have a bathtub-shower combo, chances are you have a decorative shower curtain that not only helps keep in the water but adds some personality to the space. But is the plastic liner that goes behind it necessary? For some folks, it might seem like a waste of both money and resources. While it doesn't usually cost more than $10, it needs frequent changing due to grime and soap scum buildup. Because of that, it's also not environmentally friendly. However, it is necessary.

Without a plastic liner, your decorative shower curtain — usually made out of some sort of linen or fabric — would get soaked. Much like how your towel gets damp after drying off, your curtain would absorb the spray bouncing off your body in the shower. If not dried properly, this can lead to mold or mildew.

You also need a plastic liner to protect your decorative curtain from becoming dirty. With no barrier, that unsightly soap scum would end up on your curtain, creating the need to update your fabric often. That's even more money out the door.

If you want to increase the lifespan of your liner, there are certain things you can do. First and foremost, to help prevent mildew and mold from growing on the liner, make sure you pull it closed each time you exit your shower. This allows it to dry properly and helps the air circulate across its surface, decreasing the chance of mildew. 

You also can clean it weekly or biweekly. Whether it's made from PVC, PEVA, or vinyl, you can take it down from its rod and throw it into the washing machine to remove any soap scum or grime. Just be sure to use warm rather than hot water, a tiny drop of detergent, and a gentle cycle. Since it's designed to handle large amounts of water, the washing machine won't destroy it. The key, however, is to use warm water. Cold water can make the plastic brittle, and hot water can melt it in spots.

If you're eco-conscious and don't like the idea of buying a huge sheet of unrecyclable plastic to protect your bathroom, then there are alternatives. If you're looking for an affordable and easy-to-find option, switch from PVC liners to PEVA options. These are considered more recyclable and less toxic than the former. They are less harmful because they contain fewer VOCs, which are known to cause symptoms like headaches and nausea. They are also easier to recycle because they are not coated in chlorine.

You can also choose a brand that offers a recycling program, such as Outlines. Its shower curtains are divided into three parts — the top panel with curtain rings, the middle panel that gets the most shower spray, and the bottom panel that contains magnets. Once your curtain gets dingy, you can return the middle panel for recycling, and they will send you a new replacement. This way, you know your panels aren't ending up in the landfill.