If you have shower curtains inside your bath, you might sometimes wonder whether its material is safe for you and your family.
These unconscious thoughts come mostly around Polyester shower curtains. So, are these shower curtains really safe?
Polyester shower curtains are safer to use than PVC ones but can be harmful. Polyester is a material that releases toxic chemicals, including antimony and formaldehyde, which can be hazardous to your health. Furthermore, they become even more vulnerable when heat exposure increases potential harm.
Let’s delve further into this topic to have detailed info about it.
What is Polyester?
Polyester is a synthetic fiber that is made from petroleum-based products. It is commonly used in clothing, bedding, and curtains due to its durability and wrinkle resistance.
Polyester is also known for its ability to hold vibrant colors, making it a popular choice for home decor.
Are Polyester Shower Curtains Toxic?
Polyester shower curtains are generally not considered toxic, but some types of polyester may contain chemicals that can harm human health.
One such chemical is polyvinyl chloride (PVC), often added to polyester shower curtains to make them more durable and water-resistant. However, PVC is a known carcinogen and can release toxic fumes when heated, such as during a hot shower.
These shower curtains can discharge harmful toxins, including dioxins, ethylene dichloride, BPAs, phthalates, and other hazardous substances.
To avoid these potential health hazards, it’s recommended to choose polyester shower curtains labeled PVC- and phthalate-free. Additionally, it’s a good idea to air out your shower curtain before using it to reduce any potential off-gassing of chemicals.
Do Polyester Shower Curtains Get Moldy?
As a fundamental element of bathroom decor, shower curtains are available in various materials, with polyester being the most common.
Due to the constant exposure to water and staining, polyester shower curtains are susceptible to becoming moldy, particularly from the mineral deposits in hard water.
Nevertheless, compared to other materials like PEVA or PVC, polyester shower curtains are remarkably resistant to mold growth.
Furthermore, they can be treated to prevent mildew and are conveniently machine-washable, making them an excellent choice for maintaining a clean and hygienic bathroom environment.
How To Wash A Polyester Shower Curtain?
Shower curtains are available in an array of materials, with polyester being one of the most common among them. Despite its synthetic origin, polyester is essentially a type of fabric and can be washed easily like any other cloth in your home.
Since shower curtains are frequently exposed to water, they are prone to staining. However, cleaning your polyester shower curtain is a breeze – toss it into the washing machine on a cold cycle and use a mild detergent for optimal cleaning.
Polyester shower curtains are often made of plastic, so you might be apprehensive about washing them safely. Rest assured that non-toxic polyester shower curtains can be easily cleaned using the abovementioned method.
Moreover, you may wonder whether cleaning a polyester shower curtain in a washing machine is safe. The answer is a resounding yes.
Things You Need
- Washer
- Laundry detergent
- Dryer
Steps To Clean a Polyester Non-toxic Shower Curtain
The steps to clean a non-toxic polyester shower curtain are pretty simple.
- Firstly, remove the shower curtain from the rack and place it inside the washing machine. Next, add a suitable amount of detergent as the cleaning agent.
- Now, turn on the washing machine and set it to a cold cycle. Let the machine work its magic and clean the shower curtain efficiently. Once the washing process is complete, it’s time to dry the curtain.
- You can choose to air-dry the shower curtain outdoors if time permits. However, if you’re in a rush, you can use a dryer at low heat to speed up the drying process.
- And voila! That’s all it takes to clean a non-toxic polyester shower curtain, leaving it fresh and ready for use once again.
Is Nylon Better Than Polyester For A Shower Curtain?
When it comes to synthetic fabrics, both nylon, and polyester are commonly used. However, nylon tends to be more expensive than polyester due to its superior durability and weather resistance, especially in the context of shower curtains.
Shower curtains made from PVC-free nylon and polyester are considered safer and more eco-friendly options in the market. Let’s explore the differences between these two materials for shower curtains.
Durability is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a shower curtain. While both nylon and polyester are solid and durable, nylon has a reputation for being even more robust and long-lasting. It is abrasion-resistant, highly resilient, and resistant to many chemicals.
On the other hand, polyester shower curtains are also strong, stretch-resistant, and resistant to most chemicals.
Regarding water absorption, both materials are hydrophobic and tend to repel water. However, nylon shower curtains are more likely to absorb water than their polyester counterparts, making them slower to dry after getting wet during a shower.
Flammability is another essential factor to consider. Polyester shower curtains can quickly melt and burn upon exposure to fire. Nylon, on the other hand, melts first before quickly catching fire.
Regarding environmental impact, nylon is typically made from byproducts of the oil refinery industry, which can negatively affect the environment. Polyester, although non-biodegradable, can be recycled and is considered a relatively eco-friendly option.
Difference Between PEVA and Polyester Shower Curtains
PEVA, or polyethylene vinyl acetate, is an excellent alternative to shower curtains. It has become increasingly popular due to its environmentally-friendly and non-toxic properties.
In contrast, polyester shower curtains are known for enhancing the bathroom’s overall design and providing a soft, elegant look. They are also designed to be highly water-repellent, protecting the floor from water damage.
Here are the three main differences between these two types of shower curtains:
PEVA:
- It feels like durable, soft plastic
- It comes with a waterproof feature
- The PEVA shower curtain is BPA-free
Polyester:
- It feels like woven fabric, similar to an umbrella
- Highly water repellent
- It comes as BPA-free and can be used as a liner or curtain
FAQs Related To Are Polyester Shower Curtains Safe
Is polyester shower curtain healthy?
Polyester shower curtains are generally safe for everyday use. However, concerns about potential health risks due to using certain chemicals in their production have been raised. It is recommended to use BPA-free options and wash them regularly to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Is a polyester shower curtain like plastic?
Polyester shower curtains are not made of plastic but can have a similar appearance and feel. Polyester is a synthetic fabric that can be woven to look and feel like other materials, such as cotton or silk. However, due to their water-resistant coating, some polyester shower curtains may have a plastic-like texture.
Do polyester shower curtains need liners?
Polyester shower curtains do not necessarily need liners, as they are designed to be water-repellent. However, a liner can help prevent water from escaping the shower and onto the bathroom floor. Liners can also provide additional protection against mold and mildew growth.
Is polyester good for shower curtains?
Polyester is a popular material for shower curtains due to its durability and water-repellent properties. It is also relatively easy to clean and maintain, as polyester shower curtains can be washed in a washing machine.
Conclusion
Shower curtains serve many purposes in the bathroom, and if you’re wondering whether polyester shower curtains are safe, the answer is yes. They are non-toxic and perfectly safe for use in the bathroom. So you can enjoy their water-repellent properties and durability with peace of mind.
I hope this guide explains everything you need about Are Polyester Shower Curtains Safe? If you have any questions, don’t forget to ask them in the comment section below.
Until Next Time!!
