by Sarah Perryman

Created on: November 03, 2007

Selecting the right shower curtain is a large decision, especially for those who are worried about functionality and appeal. The shower curtain is the largest and most obvious necessity in your bathroom and should be chosen with care.

Shower curtains are made from a variety of materials and each one has a positive and a negative side. Most commonly, the shower curtains are made from synthetic materials such as Polyester or Vinyl or natural materials such as Cotton and Linen.

Synthetic Materials

Polyester is a man-made product that has may positive aspects. As a shower curtain, polyester is quick-drying, holds its form well, and is resistant to organic damage like that caused by mildew and mold. This material is also very easy to clean and is very inexpensive.

Vinyl is also a type of plastic. This is a very useful man-made material that is commonly used in furniture and is considers safe for children. This product is also popular as shower curtain material because it is simple to care for and very sturdy.

Though these come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and prints they also may not be attractive to some buyers. Many people are going green' and for those who want to be ecologically friendly, these may not be the curtains for you.

In actual performance, these products make great tub and shower liners since they are very waterproof. As exterior tub curtains these tend to lack a refined look, are very stiff, and may maintain the fold lines from factory packaging. Another problem is that they tend to show soap scum and hard water residue very clearly but they are also very cheap and easy to replace.

Natural Materials

Cotton is a natural fiber harvested in many places around the world. It is known to be durable and extremely versatile. This material, when used as a shower curtain, is typically coveted for the finesse and richness. These are often designed to coordinate with towel and rug sets.

Linen is one of the world's oldest natural fabrics and was valued highly around the world. High quality linen is soft to the touch. Linen is also naturally moth resistant and is ideal for repelling dirt and other soiling. As a shower curtain it is also a very popular designer material but it does have flaws.

These natural materials, though extremely beautiful and earth-friendly may give some homeowners difficulties. Bathrooms that are not well ventilated or are in constant use may be too moist for these fibers. Because natural fibers will retail water they need ample

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