Sofia Martinez
Shower curtains are often made from PVC, EVA, PEVA, fabric, or vinyl. While vinyl and plastic shower curtains are typically cheap and effective, they have serious drawbacks. They are made with numerous hazardous chemicals, which can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and phthalates into your bathroom. These chemicals can cause respiratory irritation, headaches, nausea, and potential harm to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system. They can also cause cancer. As a result, many people are opting for low-tox shower curtain options, such as PEVA, EVA, polyester, and natural fibers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Vinyl, PEVA, EVA, Polyester, Natural Fibers, Fabric, Plastic |
| Environmental Impact | Plastic shower curtains can end up in the ocean after disposal. PEVA and EVA are eco-friendly. |
| Health Impact | Plastic liners off-gas toxic chemicals, which can cause respiratory irritation, headaches, nausea, and potential harm to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system. They can also cause cancer. |
| Maintenance | Plastic shower curtains are low maintenance and easy to clean, but can be difficult to dry. Fabric shower curtains require more maintenance as they need to be washed and dried properly to prevent mold and mildew growth. |
| Cost | Plastic shower curtains are typically cheap and effective. PEVA and EVA options are more expensive than PVC plastic liners but are better quality and eco-friendly. |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic shower curtains are toxic
The "new shower curtain smell" that people often associate with "clean" is actually the off-gassing of these toxic chemicals. The heat and humidity of a shower can accelerate the release of these chemicals. In addition, plastic shower curtains can contain other toxic chemicals such as lead, mercury, stabilizers, and colorants, which can contribute to a cocktail of pollutants in our homes.
The environmental impact of plastic shower curtains is also significant. They can end up in the ocean after disposal, contributing to plastic pollution and harming marine life. Even polyester, a derivative of petroleum-based products, can have environmental implications despite being a budget-friendly alternative to PVC.
To avoid the health and environmental risks associated with plastic shower curtains, consumers can opt for PVC-free alternatives such as PEVA (polyethylene vinyl acetate) or EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) shower curtains. These alternatives are eco-friendly, containing significantly fewer VOCs, having antimicrobial properties, and being chlorine-free. For those with budget constraints, polyester can be a practical initial step when transitioning away from plastic liners, although it does come with some environmental and health trade-offs.
Overall, it is important to recognize the potential toxicants in everyday items like shower curtains and make conscious decisions to choose less toxic options for the sake of our health and the environment.
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They off-gas chemicals
Plastic shower curtains are often made from PVC, which is durable but contains numerous hazardous chemicals. These chemicals are released as the curtain off-gasses, contributing to indoor air pollution. Off-gassing is accelerated when the curtain is exposed to heat and humidity.
A 2008 study found 108 chemicals off-gassing from PVC shower curtains, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and phthalates. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals is associated with respiratory irritation, headaches, nausea, and potential harm to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system. Phthalates have also been linked to hormonal disruptions, reproductive issues, and developmental problems.
To reduce exposure to off-gassed chemicals, it is recommended to air out the bathroom as often as possible, especially after hot showers. Individuals can also opt for non-toxic shower curtain alternatives made from natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, or hemp. These options are more breathable and sustainable but require proper maintenance to avoid mold buildup.
For those with budget constraints, polyester can be a practical alternative to plastic liners. While it is derived from petroleum-based products and involves various chemicals in its production, it does not off-gas like plastic materials and is naturally mildew-resistant and water-repellent. PEVA and EVA are also safer alternatives to PVC, as they are eco-friendly, have antimicrobial properties, and release fewer VOCs.
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They can be replaced by hemp canvas curtains
Plastic shower curtains are typically made from PVC, vinyl, or other synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon, and microfiber. They are cheap and effective at keeping water inside the shower area. However, they have several drawbacks. Firstly, they off-gas toxic chemicals, which can cause respiratory irritation, headaches, nausea, and potential harm to internal organs and the central nervous system. Secondly, they contribute to environmental damage, as they often end up in the ocean after disposal.
Hemp canvas shower curtains are a great eco-friendly alternative to plastic shower curtains. They are made from natural hemp fabric, without the use of pesticides or fertilizers, and are fully biodegradable. Hemp fabric inhibits mold and mildew growth, addressing a common issue with shower curtains. While hemp curtains will get wet, they will not leak through and will air dry quickly, preventing mold growth. They are also durable and long-lasting, with some brands offering an extra 8 inches of length to allow for shrinkage.
Hemp canvas shower curtains offer a natural, rustic aesthetic to your bathroom. They are available in a range of colours, including white, black platinum, evening mist, and alpine meadow blue. Some brands also offer optional rustproof shower easy-roll rings, which are designed with flat rollers for easier movement.
When caring for a hemp canvas shower curtain, it is important to fully extend the curtain after use to aid in drying. It is recommended to wash the curtain at least once a month and dry it thoroughly to prevent mold. Color-fast bleach or other mildew stain treatments can be used if needed.
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PEVA is a safer alternative to PVC
Plastic shower curtains are cheap and effective. However, they have some serious drawbacks. For instance, they give off a strong chemical odour that can linger for days or even weeks. This is due to off-gassing, where plastics release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and phthalates. These chemicals are associated with respiratory irritation, headaches, nausea, and potential harm to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system. They can also cause cancer.
PEVA, or polyethylene vinyl acetate, is a popular alternative to PVC. It is chlorine-free, which is preferable for your health as it does not emit a terrible smell. PEVA also contains significantly fewer VOCs, although it does still release them. One study found that VOCs in PEVA were toxic to living organisms, although it is not clear if they are harmful to humans. PEVA is also more expensive than PVC.
PEVA is often used in household items such as shower curtains, children's toys, and packaging due to its flexible and waterproof nature. It is also eco-friendly and has antimicrobial properties.
While PEVA is a safer alternative to PVC, it is not without its drawbacks. It is a petroleum-based, non-biodegradable plastic that can contribute to microplastic pollution. Additionally, there is limited research on its long-term health effects.
Overall, while PEVA may be a safer option than PVC, it is important to consider all the available options and choose what is best for your specific needs. For example, organic, sustainable fabrics like cotton, linen, or hemp are water-resistant, although they do take longer to dry.
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Fabric shower curtains are susceptible to mould and mildew
Fabric shower curtains are more susceptible to mould and mildew than plastic alternatives. This is due to the warm, damp conditions of bathrooms, which provide the perfect environment for mould and mildew to thrive. The moisture that remains after a shower or bath is the main cause of mould and mildew growth. As such, it is important to keep your shower curtain dry and well-ventilated.
To prevent mould and mildew from growing on fabric shower curtains, it is recommended to increase ventilation by turning on the bathroom exhaust fan and opening windows. It is also important to wash fabric shower curtains regularly, either by hand or in the washing machine, and to ensure they are completely dry before putting them away. In addition, fabric shower curtains should be paired with a liner to keep them dry.
There are a variety of liners available, including vinyl, PVC, EVA, and PEVA. Vinyl and PVC liners are typically cheap and durable, but they can release smelly and potentially harmful chemicals. EVA and PEVA liners are more eco-friendly alternatives that contain fewer VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and have antimicrobial properties.
While fabric shower curtains are more susceptible to mould and mildew, there are ways to prevent and treat it. If mould and mildew do occur, there are several cleaning methods that can be used to remove it, including scrubbing the affected areas with a soft-bristled brush and a solution of chlorine bleach and water, or hydrogen peroxide and water. It is also important to increase ventilation and reduce moisture in the bathroom to prevent future growth.
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Frequently asked questions
A plastic shower curtain is a type of shower curtain made from PVC, EVA, PEVA, or vinyl. These materials are derived from petroleum-based products and are often toxic, releasing harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and phthalates into the air.
Plastic shower curtains can off-gas toxic chemicals, compromising indoor air quality and posing health risks such as respiratory issues and potential harm to organs like the liver and kidneys. They also contribute to environmental damage, ending up in oceans after disposal.
There are several alternatives to plastic shower curtains, including fabric options made from natural fibres or synthetic materials like polyester. PEVA and EVA are popular eco-friendly choices, as they release fewer VOCs and are chlorine-free.
Non-plastic shower curtains, such as fabric curtains, may require more maintenance. To prevent mould and mildew, regular washing is recommended, either by hand or in a washing machine on a gentle cycle. Some fabrics, like hemp, may shrink, so hang drying is advised.
