When shopping for shower curtains, you may come across options made from PEVA material. But is this plastic-based fabric a good choice for your bathroom? In this article, we'll analyze the pros and cons of PEVA shower curtains to help you determine if they make a suitable water barrier and decor option or if you're better off with other materials.
Is PEVA in a shower curtain good or bad?
Here are some benefits that make PEVA a decent shower curtain material:
- Waterproof and moisture-resistant to effectively prevent leaks. This makes PEVA good for shower liners.
- Clear transparent coating allows visibility and light to pass through.
- More durable and long-lasting than cheaper vinyl curtains.
- Resists damage from chemical cleaners, humidity, and chlorine.
- Lightweight fabric-like texture and drape.
However, some drawbacks to consider with PEVA are:
- Can cause noisy rustling sounds when moved or blown by air.
- Traps heat and moisture leading to potentially more mildew issues.
- Not as soft, luxurious, or aesthetically pleasing as real fabric curtains.
- May need more frequent replacement than higher quality polyester or nylon fabric.
- Not an eco-friendly choice like natural fabric options.
Overall, PEVA makes a decent budget-friendly choice if you prioritize water protection over aesthetics or longevity. But higher quality fabrics often outperform PEVA over time.
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 that provides structure.
- The vinyl acetate (VA) allows flexibility similar to vinyl shower curtains.
- Combined, PEVA becomes a pliable plastic with a fabric look and feel.
So while PEVA mimics some properties of cloth, it contains no actual cotton, polyester or other fabric fibers. This makes it waterproof but less breathable than true fabric.
Is PEVA shower curtain safe?
PEVA shower curtains are considered safe to use, with a few precautions:
- Try to choose BPA-free PEVA plastic without this chemical additive.
- Look for food-grade, non-toxic PEVA certified safe for direct food contact.
- Allow PEVA curtains proper ventilation to prevent moisture and mildew buildup.
- Avoid cheaper PEVA curtains more prone to off-gassing VOC fumes.
- Wash new PEVA curtains before first use to remove chemical residues.
- Replace PEVA every 6-12 months as plastic degrades over time.
While PEVA lacks the chemicals and off-gassing issues of vinyl, natural options like cotton, hemp or bamboo are ideal for maximum safety and eco-friendliness.
What is PEVA?
PEVA stands for polyethylene vinyl acetate. It is a plastic-based fabric commonly used for clear, waterproof coatings in:
- Shower curtains and liners
- Outdoor gear like rain ponchos and boots
- Food handling gloves and applications
PEVA aims to offer the water barrier functionality of vinyl plastic with a more textile-like woven appearance and feel.
Conclusion
Overall, PEVA shower curtains represent a midpoint between cheap vinyl and higher-end fabric curtains. The plastic polymers offer reliable moisture protection at an affordable price point. But PEVA lacks the aesthetics, breathability, and longevity of a nice polyester or nylon fabric liner. For a basic water barrier on a budget, PEVA will do the job. But it's worth investing in a quality fabric option if you value style, comfort, and safety in your shower space.