Shower Curtain & Liner

Important note on this category

Shower liners live in a warm, humid environment and are used daily. As a result, the material matters more here than in other home categories. My goal isn’t to eliminate all exposure, but to choose materials that are less likely to off-gas heavily and that perform well in real-world conditions.

What I typically avoid

When I’m choosing a shower curtain or liner, I tend to skip options made with or treated with:

• PVC (vinyl)

• BPA

• Phthalates are commonly used to soften vinyl

• Formaldehyde-based finishes are sometimes used on fabric curtains to reduce wrinkles or improve durability

• Flame-retardant treatments, especially those added for commercial or hotel use

• Strong or lingering plastic or chemical odors

What I look for instead

I prioritize shower curtains and liners that:

• Clearly labeled PVC-free and BPA-free

• Use PEVA as the liner material when plastic is needed

• Use simpler materials with fewer added treatments

• Look for certifications like OEKO-TEX, GREENGUARD, or GOTS when they’re available (especially for fabric curtains)

Material context

PEVA is still a plastic, but it’s generally considered a lower-exposure alternative to traditional vinyl liners. For many homes, it’s a practical middle ground — especially if you want something waterproof and low maintenance.

If minimizing plastic exposure is a higher priority, fabric curtains (such as cotton or polyester blends) can also work well, with the understanding that they may be treated for wrinkle resistance or flammability unless otherwise specified.

How I think about this choice

This is one of those categories where I focus on reducing what doesn’t need to be there — like PVC, unnecessary finishes, and heavy chemical smells — while still choosing something that works in real life. A simple PEVA liner or a certified fabric curtain is often the most realistic option.