The primary purpose of shower curtains is to prevent water from the shower or tub from splashing into the other parts of the bathroom. Also, they add to the aesthetics of the shower and keep the bathroom warm. But do shower curtains go inside or outside?
Shower curtains should go outside the shower, while shower liners should go inside. Shower curtains soak in water, water minerals, soap, and dirt, resulting in mold and mildew growth. On the other hand, shower liners are water and mold-resistant.
How you use the shower curtain depends on whether it has a shower liner or not. Ideally, a shower liner should go inside the tub while the shower curtain stays outside.
However, in instances where your shower curtains do not have a liner, you have no option other than to have the shower curtain go inside the tab. But is this a good option?
If you decide to use the shower curtain inside the tub, be ready to deal with mold, and you will be putting your health at risk, and the looks of the curtain will not be pleasing.
The advantage of using shower liners inside the tub is that you can easily replace them even if mold grows on them because they are not as expensive as shower curtains.
We have to emphasize that mold is harmful to your health, and it is close to impossible to get rid of mold from cloth. Therefore, if your shower curtain grows mold, the only way to keep your health safe is to get a new one, which is very expensive.
Therefore, invest in shower curtains (View on Amazon) with inbuilt shower liners to save you on the cost of shower curtain replacement.
Shower Curtain Vs. Shower Liners
Shower curtains and shower liners can be used together or interchangeably, but they are not the same.
Shower curtains are made from linen, vinyl, cotton, or polyester and are made to offer privacy and decorative purposes. On the other hand, shower liners are made from water-resistant materials like polyester and vinyl. They are ideally made to prevent water from the shower or tub from splashing to other parts of the bathroom.
Shower curtains and shower liner differences:
| Shower Curtains | Shower Liners |
| Hangs outside the tub or shower base | Hangs inside the tub or shower base |
| Made of materials such as cotton, vinyl, polyester, or linen | Water-resistant and made of vinyl or polyester |
| Opaque to provide privacy | Both transparent and opaque |
| Used for decorative purposes and are available in different colors, materials, and patterns | Their primary purpose is to prevent water from the shower from splashing to the outside. |
Do You Need Both Shower Curtains And Showers Liners?
Many homeowners use shower curtains with liners, and it is the ideal setting for many. However, will others use shower curtains only or shower liners? So, which is the best option of the three?
a) Shower Liners Only
Pros:
- Allows you to keep a watch of the outside because they are transparent
- You can quickly tell when it becomes dirty
- Easy to clean
- Cheaper than shower curtains hence are easy to replace
Cons:
- No privacy because they are transparent
- Not decorative
b) Shower Curtains Only
Pros:
- Offers privacy because they are opaque
- Appealing to the eye because they come in a variety of colors and patterns
Cons:
- They are easily damaged by water
- Are not easy to clean
- Expensive to replace
c) Both Shower Curtains And Shower Liners
Pros
- The shower curtain lasts longer because the liner protects it from water damage.
- Offers privacy
- Decorates the bathroom depending on your theme and style
Cons
- Double maintenance because you have to clean both the curtain and liner
After looking at the pros and cons of the three curtain shower options, it seems like option three, where you use the shower curtain with a shower liner (View on Amazon) is the best option.
Which Side Of The Shower Curtain Goes Inside?
The best way to hang your shower curtain is to have the finished side facing the inside and the tag side outside. This way, you will get a luxurious and polished look. Also, ensure that you choose a shower curtain that matches the fixtures and other decorations in the bathroom.
The bathroom is one of the relaxing spaces in your house. After a long day, all you want is to soak in the tub or take a long shower. Therefore, it works for your benefit if you keep this space beautiful and comfortable.
What’s more, since you use the bathroom every day, you should ensure that it is well maintained and clean. A dirty bathroom becomes a breeding space for germs and bacteria and could easily cause accidents.
This explains why many homeowners spend a lot of money ensuring that their bathrooms are functional and always clean.
Shower Curtain Etiquette
For shower curtains to serve their purpose, they should be used in a specific way, also referred to as shower curtain etiquette, and it is essential to comply with these etiquettes wherever you go.
Using the shower curtain correctly ensures a clean and safe bathroom and increases the lifespan of the curtain. Below are some of the rules to guide you on how to use a shower curtain correctly:
1. Ensure that the shower liner or shower curtain is inside the bathtub when you shower.
2. Open the shower curtain gently to avoid ripping the delicate material.
3. Purchase uniform shower curtain rings to avoid confusion during installation.
4. Do not pee in the bathroom least the curtain absorbs the pee and leaves your bathroom smelling pee afterward. However, if you must pee in the bathroom, aim at the drain.
Frequently asked questions
1. Are Shower Curtains Supposed To Be Inside Or Outside?
Shower curtains should be outside the bathtub because they soak water, soap, and dirt, resulting in mold growth. However, if you use a shower curtain without a liner, the curtain should go inside the tab.
2. How Often Should You Replace Shower Curtains?
The lifetime of a shower curtain depends on the material used to make it. Plastic shower curtains should be replaced after around three months when they start to hold mold. On the other hand, fabric shower curtains can swerve you for up to three years, especially if used with a liner.
3. How Do I Prevent My Shower Liner From Growing Mold And Mildew?
The secret to keeping your shower curtain free from mold and mildew is keeping it dry. After the shower stretch, the liner fully to allow it to dry. Also, keep the bathroom windows open or use a fan to help with ventilation. Lastly, wash the curtain at least once every week.
In Summary, Do Shower Curtains Go Inside Or Outside?
Shower curtains should stay outside the tub. They get damaged easily when exposed soaked or exposed to water, hence the need to keep them outside.
If you have been using a shower curtain only, it is time to invest in a shower liner to prevent shower water from splashing to the outside and to protect your expensive shower curtain from water damage.
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