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Plastic Shower Curtain Designs that are Functional and Eco-friendly

Posted: June 9, 2011

Plastic shower curtain designs are among one of the most commonly used shower curtain styles. The plastic, or vinyl material has been the most prevalent material in the world of shower curtains for decades. The main reason for the immense popularity of vinyl as it pertains to shower curtains is the fact that vinyl is extremely repellant of water and the generalized damp conditions that are commonly associated with the shower area. Additionally, vinyl is simple to clean and maintain, making it a functional and convenient material for something that receives as much use as the shower curtain.

However, regardless of their functionality in the bathroom, plastic shower curtains have begun to receive some negative light over the past few years as the practice of going eco-friendly has become a priority for many people.

The problem revolves around the use of PVC vinyl in shower curtains that has been proven to contain many different chemicals including lead and stabilizers. Due to this fact, people have started turning their backs to vinyl shower curtains and placing more of an emphasis on eco-friendly materials and various fabrics as an alternative. However, manufacturers of plastic shower curtains have begun replacing the chemical compounds of vinyl with more eco-friendly alternative elements to help bring vinyl back into a more positive light.

Plastic Shower Curtain – Maintaining Functionality While Gaining Eco-friendliness

While in fact many people are looking for eco-friendly materials in which to replace the not so eco-friendly PVC based plastics, they are still reluctant to give up the functionality that ties hand in hand with heavy vinyl. Unfortunately, many of the eco-friendly alternatives that are available are thin and poorly designed for repeated use when compared to the longevity of vinyl. Due to this fact, many people are finding themselves in a difficult situation when trying to find the right shower curtain or shower curtain liner for their bathroom. Fortunately, there are some options available that exhibit both longevity and the eco-friendly aspect that people are looking for.

PEVA Shower Curtains
PEVA shower curtains are the most popular alternative to PVC based vinyl shower curtains for those individuals looking for the functionality and longevity of vinyl, but with an eco-friendly aspect. PEVA is a light-weight plastic that is chlorine free and does not give off the steady stream of gases associated with PVC vinyl. Additionally, PEVA exhibits the longevity of vinyl as well as the ever important resistance to mildew.

For those who are less interested in the functionality of vinyl and simply want to opt for more eco-friendly options, there are a wide array of fabric based shower curtains that are phosphate free and in some cases, manufactured in organic or recycled materials.