Plastic accessories, synthetic towels, harsh cleansers and virgin paper products still reside in many bathrooms. The switch to an eco-friendly bathroom requires only a few modest changes. Environmentally conscious alternatives include natural baskets, organic cotton towels, recycled toilet paper and biodegradable cleansers. However,when making the transition, you could easily overlook one of the key elements---the shower curtain.
History
The move toward eco-friendly shower curtains began in 2008 with a report released by the Center for Health, Environment and Justice. Researchers studied shower curtains made of polyvinyl chloride, commonly known as PVC, sold by five leading U.S. retailers. The findings revealed that PVC shower curtains contain and emit chemicals such as volatile organic compounds or VOCs, phthalates and metals. Even though the federal government has yet to ban the use of PVC in shower curtains, an increasing number of retailers now offer eco-friendly options for concerned consumers.
Types
For those not wanting to give up vinyl, consider a shower curtain made from a non-toxic, environmentally friendly, chloride-free vinyl known as PEVA. Use this type as a liner or as your primary shower curtain.
A natural fabric shower curtain could make your green bathroom a reality. Durable flax-linen blends hold up to repeated machine washings. For the perfect eco touch, look for the pesticide-free variety. This type of eco-friendly shower curtain requires the use of a liner.
Recycled polyester, an alternative to natural woven fabrics, provides a waterproof barrier for your shower. This type of shower curtain, similar to those used in hotels, has a soft feel compared to vinyl. Recycled polyster dries quickly and does not need a liner.
Hemp fabrics have a solid reputation among the environmentally conscious crowd. Hemp, a porous fiber, absorbs and directs water very effectively. Hemp shower curtains dry quickly and resist mold and mildew. Naturally strong hemp fibers become softer after each washing.
Features
Eco-friendly shower curtains provide the same basic features as other shower curtains. They offer standard sizing, half widths for stall showers, and wider versions to accommodate claw-foot tubs. Typically fitted with holes for standard rings, choices now include the latest in hookless, grommeted styling. Not all eco-friendly shower curtains come in boring beige. Non-toxic, natural dyes provide a vibrant splash of color to your bathroom.
Drawbacks
If you want a shower curtain made from a natural woven fabric, you will pay a price for being environmentally conscious. The Do It Yourself website says organic cotton and hemp shower curtains cost more than those made from eco-friendly synthetics. To save money, look for shower curtains made from PEVA vinyl or recycled polyester.
Alternatives
According to the Sierra Club, in Japan and other countries, the bathroom itself serves as the shower. The entire room is tiled and water flows into a floor drain. Builders have adopted the curtain-free shower concept by constructing partially walled shower enclosures, eliminating the need for a curtain.
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