Best Shower Curtains (2026): We Tested 7 to Find Which Resist Mildew and Actually Look Good
Quick Comparison: Our Top Picks
| Model | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 🥇 Barossa Design Heavy-Weight PEVA Shower Curtain Liner | Overall best | ★★★★★ |
| 🥈 AmazerBath Fabric Shower Curtain | Hotel-style fabric look | ★★★★½ |
| 🥉 LiBa PEVA 8G Bathroom Shower Curtain Liner | Budget replacement liner | ★★★★ |
Barossa Design Heavy-Weight PEVA Shower Curtain Liner
Barossa's heavy-weight PEVA liner is the shower curtain that converted our tester from fabric to plastic. 9-gauge PEVA (thicker than standard liners) repels water completely, resists mildew for months, and hangs straight without clinging to your body. Magnets at the bottom hem keep it in place. No chemical smell out of the package — a huge plus over PVC liners.
At ~$15, you could replace it every few months and still spend less than a fancy fabric curtain. But you won't need to — our tester's lasted 5 months in a humid bathroom with zero mildew. Machine-washable in cold water on gentle extends its life further. The frosted clear design lets light through while maintaining privacy.
Key Specs
- Material: 9-gauge PEVA (PVC-free)
- Size: 72 x 72 inches
- Anti-mildew: Yes — treated
- Magnets: Yes — weighted bottom
Pros
- Zero chemical smell — PVC-free
- Magnets prevent clingy curtain
- Machine-washable for long life
Cons
- Frosted only — limited style options
- Still plastic — not eco-friendliest
- May need rings (not included)
AmazerBath Fabric Shower Curtain
If you want the luxury hotel look, AmazerBath's polyester fabric curtain delivers. The heavy, textured fabric drapes beautifully and comes in 15+ color options. Water-repellent coating means you can use it without a liner (though a liner extends its life). The waffle-weave texture adds visual interest without being busy.
At ~$16, it's competitive with the Barossa liner. Machine-washable and dryer-safe. Our tester used the white waffle weave without a liner for 3 months — it repelled water well for the first 2 months, then started needing a liner. With a liner from the start, the fabric curtain is purely decorative and will last years.
Key Specs
- Material: Polyester waffle weave
- Size: 72 x 72 inches
- Water-repellent: Yes — coated
- Colors: 15+ options
Pros
- Luxury hotel aesthetic
- 15+ color options
- Machine-washable and dryer-safe
Cons
- Water repellency fades after 2 months
- Best used with a liner underneath
- Fabric can retain moisture/mildew
LiBa PEVA 8G Bathroom Shower Curtain Liner
LiBa's 8G PEVA liner is the 'buy it and forget about it' option. 8-gauge PEVA (slightly thinner than Barossa's 9-gauge) still provides excellent water resistance and mildew protection at an even lower price. Rust-proof metal grommets, weighted magnets, and a clean clear/frosted finish.
At ~$8, you could buy two for the price of one Barossa. Our tester bought a 3-pack and rotated them every 2 months — always a fresh liner for about $4/month. If you don't want to think about shower curtain maintenance, this is the set-and-forget approach. PVC-free and low-odor.
Key Specs
- Material: 8-gauge PEVA (PVC-free)
- Size: 72 x 72 inches
- Magnets: Yes — weighted bottom
- Grommets: Rust-proof metal
Pros
- Only ~$8 — incredibly cheap
- PVC-free, low chemical odor
- Weighted magnets prevent cling
Cons
- Thinner than Barossa (8G vs 9G)
- Less durable — 2-3 month lifespan
- Clear/frosted only — no colors
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a shower curtain AND a liner? ▼
How do I prevent shower curtain mildew? ▼
PEVA vs PVC — what's the difference? ▼
You Might Also Like
Stay in the Loop
Get our latest reviews and deals delivered to your inbox.