Recycling Shower Curtains: Plastic's Environmental Impact

Plastic shower curtains are notoriously hard to recycle due to their polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composition. This has led to a rise in innovative companies, such as TerraCycle, which offer alternative methods of disposing of plastic shower curtains. However, there are other ways to be environmentally conscious when it comes to shower curtains, such as opting for washable and more durable alternatives, or even making new items out of old plastic shower curtains.

Plastic shower curtains are often made from PVC, which is not recyclable

The difficulty in recycling PVC is further compounded by the fact that plasticizers, which are often added to PVC products, are toxic. These additives can contaminate other plastics during the recycling process, severely reducing the value of the contaminated item for recycling. As a result, even if a PVC shower curtain makes it to a recycling centre, there is no guarantee that it will actually be recycled.

However, this does not mean that all plastic shower curtains are impossible to recycle. Some companies, like TerraCycle, have made it their mission to eliminate as much waste as possible, and will take old plastic shower curtains off your hands. Additionally, there are a few sustainable alternatives to PVC shower curtains that are much more recyclable.

For example, polyester shower curtains or liners are a more recyclable option, as they are made from a different type of plastic that is more widely accepted by recycling centres. Cotton or hemp curtains are another option, as they do not require a liner and can be washed regularly to avoid mould and mildew.

Companies like TerraCycle offer recycling services for plastic shower curtains

Plastic shower curtains are constructed of heavy plastic, which is challenging to recycle. Most plastic shower curtains or plastic shower curtain liners are made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which is generally not recyclable in municipal recycling systems.

However, companies like TerraCycle offer recycling services for plastic shower curtains. TerraCycle's goal is to eliminate as much waste as possible, and they accept all items used for bathing and showering, including curtains, loofahs, shower caddies, shower heads, soap dishes, and soap dispensers.

They offer Zero Waste Boxes, which can be filled with trash and sent back to them for recycling. Once the waste is received, it is sorted based on material characteristics and composition using various sorting technologies. After that, the waste is recycled into raw material and sold to manufacturing companies to produce new products, thus completing the recycling journey.

It is important to note that TerraCycle does not accept any electronic devices covered by state e-waste regulations. Before sending waste to TerraCycle, it is essential to consult their website for specific guidelines and restrictions.

While recycling plastic shower curtains can be difficult, there are reusable and greener alternatives available, such as washable polyester cloth shower curtains or 100% cotton or hemp curtains that can be recycled with fabric at the end of their life.

Plastic shower curtains can be reused as tarps, aprons, bags, etc

Plastic shower curtains are incredibly versatile and can be reused for various purposes. While they are typically challenging to recycle due to the common use of PVC, which is not recyclable in most municipal systems, they can find new life through upcycling. Here are some creative ways to reuse plastic shower curtains:

Tarps and Covers: Cut your old shower curtain into smaller pieces to create handy tarps for various projects. They can be used as a small tarp to cover firewood, protect your car trunk when hauling items, or as a cover for a small gardening tunnel or hoop house, especially if you have a clear curtain.

Bags and Accessories: Get crafty and sew same-sized pieces of the shower curtain together to make waterproof bags. These bags are perfect for carrying wet swimsuits, reusable feminine products, or cloth diapers. You can also use the material to create unique aprons or even a DIY slip n' slide for some outdoor fun!

Picnic and Camping Companion: Plastic shower curtains come in handy during outdoor activities. Use them under blankets or sleeping bags to keep them dry during picnics or camping trips. They can also double as a waterproof tablecloth to protect your food spread from the elements.

Dividers and Protectors: When camping, use your old shower curtain to divide food items in a cooler or protect them from rain. It can also be used to line tables or floors when your kids are working on messy projects, saving you cleanup time!

With a bit of creativity, you can give your old plastic shower curtain a second life and reduce waste. These ideas not only save resources but also provide functional solutions for everyday needs.

Fabric shower curtains are more durable and can be recycled with fabric

While plastic shower curtains can be repurposed, they are not easily recyclable. Most are made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride), a material that is not accepted by municipal recycling systems. However, companies like TerraCycle offer a Bathroom Accessories Zero Waste Box, which accepts shower curtains for recycling. This option is costly, with boxes starting at $118.

Fabric shower curtains, on the other hand, are a more durable and environmentally friendly alternative. Polyester cloth curtains, for example, can be machine washed repeatedly, extending their lifespan. Because they are made of cloth, they can potentially be recycled with fabric at the end of their use.

There are also 100% cotton or hemp curtain options that are washable and compostable. These curtains do not require a liner, but if you prefer to use one, a machine-washable polyester liner is a durable and recyclable option.

Fabric shower curtains offer a more sustainable choice compared to plastic curtains. By choosing a washable and recyclable fabric curtain, you can reduce waste and minimise the need for frequent replacements. This simple switch encourages a more circular approach to your bathroom essentials, contributing to a greener lifestyle.

Plastic shower curtains can be washed and reused, but only for so long

First, some care tips to increase the longevity of your plastic shower curtain. It is recommended to wash your curtain a few times a year on a heavy cycle with plenty of detergent and a bleach alternative. Soaking the curtain in a mix of white vinegar and water for four hours before putting it in the washing machine will help to keep it scum-free for longer. If you are using a fabric liner, be aware that bleach can ruin its waterproof qualities.

There are also alternative materials to consider if you are looking to replace your plastic shower curtain. Polyester, cotton, and hemp shower curtains are all washable and more durable than PVC. They could also be recycled with fabric at the end of their life. If you opt for one of these materials, you may not need a liner. However, if you can't live without a liner, you can buy a machine-washable polyester liner that will last as long as a polyester shower curtain.

When your plastic shower curtain has reached the end of its life, consider upcycling it. You could cut your curtain into same-sized pieces and sew them together to make waterproof bags, or cut it into strips and duct-tape them together to make a DIY slip-and-slide. You could also use it as a small tarp to protect firewood from rain, as a waterproof tablecloth when dining outdoors, or to divide food in a cooler while camping.

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