If you're looking into PEVA shower curtains, you may be wondering - is PEVA a fabric material or a type of plastic? In this article, we'll explain what composition PEVA shower curtains actually have and how they compare to fabrics like polyester or natural cotton.
Is PEVA a fabric or plastic?
Despite its woven, textile-like appearance, PEVA shower curtains are technically made of plastic polymers, not fabric:
- The polyethylene (PE) in PEVA is a durable plastic polymer that provides structure.
- The vinyl acetate (VA) allows flexibility similar to vinyl shower curtains.
- Combined, PEVA becomes a pliable plastic coated into a fabric pattern.
- PEVA contains no actual cotton, polyester, nylon or other fabric fibers.
So while PEVA mimics some properties of cloth and feels textile-like, it is a plastic-derived material, not a true woven fabric.
Which is safer - EVA or PEVA?
PEVA and EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) are very similar plastic-based fabrics. However, PEVA is generally considered safer and more chemically stable:
- PEVA contains no BPA (bisphenol A) compounds, whereas EVA can. BPA is potentially harmful.
- PEVA is chlorine-tolerant, while chlorine can degrade EVA.
- PEVA is certified food-grade and non-toxic. EVA can release VOC fumes.
- PEVA is more tear-resistant and long-lasting than EVA.
So for shower curtain use, PEVA offers better durability and fewer chemical concerns versus EVA fabric.
Is PEVA plastic or fabric?
Despite its woven appearance, PEVA shower curtains are derived from plastic polymers:
- The polyethylene (PE) provides a durable, waterproof plastic base.
- Vinyl acetate (VA) adds flexibility similar to vinyl shower curtains.
- The result looks and feels like fabric but contains no cloth fibers.
PEVA is an engineered plastic textile designed to mimic the performance of vinyl while looking more like fabric.
Is a PEVA shower curtain waterproof?
Yes, PEVA shower curtains are waterproof due to the polyethylene plastic polymer:
- The PE base provides a moisture barrier that prevents water penetration.
- The vinyl acetate allows the PE plastic to be flexible and drape like fabric.
- Combined, PEVA becomes a waterproof, lightweight plastic textile.
- The woven look comes from texturing the PE plastic into a fabric appearance.
So while PEVA shower curtains appear cloth-like, the polyethylene plastic base reliably blocks water.
Conclusion
Although it looks similar to woven fabric, PEVA shower curtain material is technically a form of plastic. The polyethylene provides waterproofing while the vinyl acetate creates flexibility. This gives PEVA curtains the decorative properties of fabric along with the functional moisture protection of vinyl. So if you like the textile appearance but need reliability, PEVA can provide the best of both worlds.