8 Non-Toxic Shower Curtain Liner Options for Your Bathroom

Last updated: October 30, 2024

Did you know that most shower curtain liners are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which contains many toxic chemicals? If you get that “new shower curtain smell”, it’s likely made from PVC. there is.

The problem is that PVC contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are associated with indoor air pollution and negative health effects such as headaches, dizziness, and respiratory illnesses. VOCs can also contribute to petrochemical smog.

If possible, it’s best to avoid VOCs completely or choose low-VOC-emitting materials for shower curtains, such as PEVA or EVA (see below for more information).

Here are the best non-toxic shower curtain liner options on the market. To make the list more understandable, we’ve included both water-resistant and water-resistant options.

What kind of shower curtain liner is non-toxic?

If you’re looking for a non-toxic shower curtain liner, your best options are liners made from organic fabrics such as cotton, linen, and hemp. It is not waterproof, but it is water resistant. It takes longer to dry, but it does not emit VOCs during manufacturing or use.

When used, it is recommended to use it only in a well-ventilated area to prevent mold growth. After taking a shower, open the windows and turn on the air filter to help circulate the air in the room.

If you want a low-toxic waterproof fabric, consider PEVA (polyethylene vinyl acetate) or EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) liners. These are basically the same material.

However, be aware that PEVA shower curtains emit VOCs that can be harmful to living organisms. Further studies are needed to estimate whether toxic effects occur in more complex organisms, especially humans.

Although they may not be as healthy as natural fibers or regular polyester, PEVA and EVA are generally safer than PVC or moldy curtains. For this reason, we have decided to include some PEVA and EVA options below.

Which is safer: EVA or PEVA?

PEVA and EVA are basically the same material. However, keep in mind that both are made of synthetic plastic material. Although both options are chlorine-free, they still emit VOCs, albeit on a lower scale than traditional PVC liners.

These options are completely waterproof, durable, and affordable. These can usually be found at Home Goods and are very accessible. Below we have also listed some sustainable brands that use PEVA and EVA liners.

However, the best non-toxic shower curtain liners overall are always those made from sustainable materials like organic cotton, hemp, and linen. They may not dry as well as plastic, but they are not toxic and do not emit any VOCs.

It can also be washed in the washing machine, so it can be reused. However, it must be washed regularly to keep it in good condition.

What is the best material for shower curtain liners?

The best materials for shower curtain liners are made from sustainable materials like organic cotton, hemp, and linen.

If you choose one of these materials, keep in mind that you will need to do a few things to prevent mold from growing.

Please wash about once every 1 to 2 weeks. Wash in cold water and hang dry. Allow the shower curtain to dry completely before using. You can speed this up by fully extending the curtain outside the tub. Make sure there is adequate airflow in the room (open doors and/or windows). Using a fan is also a good idea.

If you experience mold problems, consider using a non-chlorine bleach on your fabric liner, such as Meliora’s Oxygen Brightener or Dropps’ Oxi Booster. Adding white vinegar to your wash cycle also helps.

However, if you are looking for something completely waterproof, PEVA, polyester, and EVA materials are generally better than PVC.

Keep in mind that when purchasing, you need to look for more than just the material. Ideally, you should buy from brands that have ethical and transparent manufacturing, use sustainable certifications such as OEKO-TEX, or have recycling systems in place.

gzw approved non-toxic shower curtain liner

These non-toxic shower curtain liners have the Going Zero Waste Seal of Approval. All of these brands are made without PVA, and one of them even offers a recycling program.

For those looking for waterproof options, we’ve included some PEVA and EVA options. This is because they are considered a less toxic material compared to PVC.

We have highlighted some of the main characteristics of each brand, but this is not a complete list. Be sure to check out their website for more information.

So why not give these non-toxic shower curtain liners a try? Let us know in the comments!