Fabric shower curtains provide a stylish alternative to plain plastic liners. But can these fabric designs effectively contain water spray and moisture as well as vinyl? Or do they leak without an additional liner? Here we’ll look at how waterproof fabric shower curtains are on their own and what features help keep them from seeping.
Do fabric shower curtains keep water in?
On their own, most lightweight fabric curtains will absorb some moisture without an additional liner. However, certain fabric shower curtains can sufficiently contain water if:
- Made of moisture-resistant polyester or microfiber fabric. Avoid more absorbent cottons.
- Coated with water repellent treatments like silicone, acrylic or polyurethane.
- Reinforced, double stitched hems close any seepage points.
- Precisely sized to your rod length to prevent billowing airflow.
- Paired with weights or magnets on bottom hem to cling tightly.
- Allowed to fully dry between uses to maintain water repellency.
With the right design and fabrics, a high quality fabric curtain alone can contain splashes and light spray. But consider pairing with a liner for heavy protection.
Do fabric shower curtains need a liner?
For lightweight household use, fabric alone may suffice if:
- Made of quick-drying, moisture-wicking polyester.
- Treated with a water-repellent coating like silicone.
- Well-ventilated bathroom allows thorough drying.
However, for heavy-duty water protection:
- Use a hidden vinyl liner behind your fabric curtain.
- Or pair a fabrics curtain in front with a separate plastic liner.
This enjoys the aesthetics of fabric paired with assured vinyl waterproofing.
Are fabric shower liners waterproof?
Quality heavyweight fabric shower liners can reliably block water by:
- Using non-porous, moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester or nylon.
- Having reinforced, sealed seams to eliminate leakage points.
- Incorporating weights or magnets along bottom to cling to tub.
- Applying a water-repellent treatment to fabric.
- Allowing thorough drying between uses.
With the right design, well-made fabric liners can contain splashes nearly as effectively as plastic.
Do you need both a shower curtain and liner?
A liner helps waterproof the curtain but a curtain provides:
- Decorative colors, prints, and fabrics
- Visual privacy
- Insulation against cold drafts
- Sound dampening
- Outer protection for liner from moisture and mold
For functionality and aesthetics, most people opt for both a decorative shower curtain and plastic liner.
Conclusion
While not completely waterproof like vinyl, today's polyester and nylon fabric shower curtains can reliably contain splashes and billowing steam on their own thanks to water-repellent coatings and finishes. For best results, use both a fabric curtain for style along with a separate plastic liner when maximum water protection is needed.