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When shopping for a
shower curtain, you have to consider your needs. Shower curtains
provide both form and function. In terms of function, plastic and
vinyl shower curtains are the most waterproof. However, in terms of
form, cotton, linen or even silk shower curtains often look more
decorative. To get the best of both worlds, many people choose to
use both a waterproof shower liner and a more attractive fabric
shower curtain. While the shower curtain can be chosen based
primarily on the design of the bathroom, the shower liner serves a
more practical utility.
Even though the average shower liner is inexpensive, quality varies.
The least expensive shower liners will work adequately, but they may
not last very long. Shower liners are exposed to soap and water
everyday, and good quality shower curtains will be easier to
maintain than cheaper ones. Look for a heavy duty shower liner for
maximum maintainability. To prevent the build up of mildew, some
shower liners are also treated with fungicide. These liners are easy
to wipe clean and will last you a long time.
Once you have chosen your shower curtain and liner, the next step is
to choose a shower rod. Shower rods come in many different styles
and finishes. Rest assured there is one to fit any bathroom. The
length of most shower rods can be easily adjusted to fit almost any
shower. Exact measurements are not generally needed in order to
achieve a snug fit.
When it comes to materials, most shower rods are either plastic or
metal. Plastic rods are the least expensive but are not as sturdy as
metal rods. However, metal rods should be coated to prevent rusting.
Crescent shower rods can add width to you shower area and help
prevent the dreaded shower curtain “blow in.” Additionally, curved
shower rods are available for showers that are not surrounded on
three sides by walls.
The final piece of the shower curtain ensemble is the shower curtain
ring. There are tons of different styles of shower curtain rings.
Rings come in both metal and plastic, and should be coordinated to
the style of your shower curtain. Heavier fabrics like cotton and
terry cloth will require rings that are more substantial in size.
Measure the size of the grommets on the top of the curtain before
you buy rings in order to make sure they will fit.
If you are going to use both a shower curtain and a shower liner,
you have two options for installation. You can either use one rod
and one set of rings, or you can use two rods and two sets of rings.
If you used one rod, line up the liner and the curtain so they are
facing one another and thread one ring through each of the
corresponding grommets on the both the liner and the curtain. The
curtain liner will move as one unit. If you use two rods, you need
one set of rings for each, and the liner and the curtain will move
independently. |
