How to Choose a Shower Curtain: Size, Fabric, Hooks and Style

ByDEMIRTAY · 2026-11-09

A shower curtain is the largest piece of fabric in most bathrooms, so it shapes the whole room. Here is a quick, practical guide to getting the size, material and style right.

1. Size: measure your rod

Standard: 72 x 72 inches (183 x 183 cm) fits most tub-shower combos in the US.
Measure the rod width: the curtain should be at least as wide so it closes fully with a few soft folds.
For length, the hem should sit a few inches above the floor (inside a tub, below the tub rim).

2. Fabric: polyester vs cotton

Polyester is the most practical: water-resistant, quick to dry, machine washable and it holds printed colors very well, which is why art and photo curtains are almost always polyester. Cotton and linen look soft but absorb water and usually need a liner.

3. Do you need a liner?

A water-resistant polyester curtain can be used alone in many showers. If your shower sprays directly at the curtain or you want extra protection, add a clear liner behind it; it also helps the printed curtain last longer.

4. Grommets and hooks

Metal grommets (the rings sewn into the top) resist tearing much better than plain holes. Hooks are where you can add style: chrome for a classic look, matte black or bronze for rustic and modern bathrooms, or simple plastic for a light, budget-friendly option. Roller-ball hooks glide most smoothly.

Our curtains use silver metal grommets, with silver chrome (Iron) or white plastic (Plastic) hooks.

5. Choosing a design

Small bathroom: one large, calm image often looks better than a tiny busy pattern.
White bathroom: this is your chance for color. Pick a curtain and repeat one of its colors in towels.
Theme: decide on a mood (Japanese, cabin, coastal, floral) and choose accessories around it.
Seasonal: curtains are easy to swap, so many people keep a holiday curtain for December.

6. Care

Most polyester curtains can be machine washed on a gentle cold cycle and hung to dry. Wash every month or two to prevent mildew, and leave the curtain spread open after showers so it dries quickly.

Find your style

Browse Japanese, cabin & woodland, stained glass, floral and coastal designs.

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