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What are the Pros and Cons of a Vinyl Shower Curtain?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

In recent years, the vinyl shower curtain has become a staple in many homes, as well as in settings like motels and some gymnasiums and health clubs. Shower curtains of this type offer a number of benefits, including affordability and easy maintenance. At the same time, the poor durability of the vinyl shower curtain is sometimes considered a drawback, as well as the lack of a wide range of designs for this particular shower curtain option.

One of the main benefits of the vinyl shower curtain is the price. Curtains of this type are often sold for very low prices, making it possible for even households on a tight budget to purchase a new curtain when and as needed. Discount retail stores often carry a wide range of vinyl shower curtain options in terms of solid colors, making it relatively easy to find something that will fit into the bathroom’s décor with relative ease.

Many motel bathrooms have vinyl shower curtains.
Many motel bathrooms have vinyl shower curtains.

Maintenance of the vinyl shower curtain is also a clear advantage. In most instances, using simple household cleaners makes it possible to remove any dirt, grime, or other buildup on the surface of the curtain without having to remove it from the shower curtain rod. Typically, the cleaning agent can be applied, lightly worked in with a sponge, then washed off, leaving the surface of the curtain clean and fresh.

Vinyl shower curtains are easy to clean.
Vinyl shower curtains are easy to clean.

While the vinyl shower curtain does have advantages, there are also a few potential drawbacks to consider. One has to do with the fact that the curtains simply do not last as long as shower curtains made from other materials. This means that the curtain will likely be replaced much more frequently, a cost that tends to offset a portion of the savings realized by using the less expensive curtain.

Another common complaint about vinyl shower curtain options is that while vinyl versions are often available in a number of solid colors, finding vinyl curtains with various patterns and textures may be more difficult to manage. When it is possible to find a vinyl shower curtain with an appealing pattern or texture, the price is often comparable to that of curtains constructed with other materials, even though the durability of the curtain is likely to be of shorter duration than a cloth shower curtain.

Before buying a vinyl shower curtain, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of the purchase and determine if this is the best option for the consumer. In some cases, the convenience offered by the vinyl curtain may make it a clear choice, especially when the curtain is headed for a bathroom used primarily by children. At other times, it may be better to invest in a higher quality curtain with a longer usage life, especially if there is a desire to use the curtain as a decorating element within the space.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...

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    • Many motel bathrooms have vinyl shower curtains.
      Many motel bathrooms have vinyl shower curtains.
    • Vinyl shower curtains are easy to clean.
      By: dmitrimaruta
      Vinyl shower curtains are easy to clean.