SHOWER DOORS VS. SHOWER CURTAINS: MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR YOUR BATHROOM

When it comes to designing or renovating your bathroom, one important decision you'll face is choosing between shower doors and shower curtains. Both options have their own set of advantages and considerations, and making the right choice depends on various factors. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of shower doors and shower curtains to help you make an informed decision that best suits your bathroom needs.

• Style and Aesthetics:

  Glass shower enclosures create a sleek and modern look, adding an element of sophistication and luxury to any bathroom. Our enclosures come in various designs, such as frameless, semi-frameless, or framed, with a diverse metal finish and glass option offering, allowing you to choose a design that best complements your bathroom décor and your personal style. However, shower curtains can offer more versatility in terms of bold colors, fun prints, and different fabric materials, giving you the freedom to express your personal style and create a unique bathroom ambiance. Ultimately, it will be up to your personal preference. For shower door inspiration, take a look at our Photo Gallery!

  
• Maintenance and Cleaning:

  When it comes to maintenance, shower doors generally require less effort and time to clean overall. With the use of squeegees and appropriate cleaning products, you can easily wipe away water spots and soap residue within seconds after each shower. Shower curtains, on the other hand, are prone to mold and mildew buildup, requiring regular washing or replacement to maintain hygiene. While shower doors will need regular cleaning as well, you won’t have to disassemble and wash the shower door, like you would with a curtain each time. Additionally, Basco offers various options of protective coating that shields the glass from soap scum and hard water buildup, helping you maintain a clean shower door.

  Choosing high-quality, mold-resistant materials and using liners can help prolong the lifespan of a curtain, but you will still need to disassemble it for cleaning.

  Aside from frequent maintenance, most shower curtains will need to be replaced every few years, while a Basco shower enclosure can be a lifetime investment with the right care.

  Learn more about our protective coatings and cleaning products.

  

  AquaGlideXP Protection Kit

  Home Application Kit to Revitalize your Door

  $49.00
• Space Considerations:

  The size and layout of your bathroom can play a significant role in determining whether shower doors or curtains are more suitable. If you have a small bathroom, shower doors can make the space feel more open and spacious, as they allow for an unobstructed view. Sliding doors, pivot doors, or folding enclosures like our Infinity Bifold 1433, are particularly ideal for compact bathrooms. On the other hand, particularly large enclosures, steam showers, and wet rooms require a shower door as well, in order to enclose a bigger opening. Our custom enclosures allow you to create the perfect door for your space. With that in mind, shower curtains can occasionally be a better choice for bathrooms with extremely limited space, curved walls, or low-angled ceilings, as they don't require extra clearance for opening and closing.

  Lastly, it is also important to keep in mind that shower doors typically create more space for you within the enclosure, while curtains tend to bunch up inside of your shower, minimizing the interior space of your shower.

  Not sure where to start? Submit a Custom Door Inquiry to receive our suggestions for your bathroom.

  
• Water Containment:

  Another important factor to consider is water containment. Shower doors, especially those with a tight seal, provide better protection against water leakage, keeping the bathroom floor dry and minimizing the risk of slips and falls. This can be especially important when planning a bathroom for children or the elderly. However, if your shower head is angled correctly and you have an elevated curb, shower curtains with proper liners can help contain water and prevent leakage as well.

• Accessibility and Ease of Use:

  For individuals with mobility challenges or disabilities, accessibility is crucial. Shower doors, especially our smooth rolling enclosures such as our Rotolo (Lux) Series, can limit the amount of force and reach needed to operate the enclosure. Shower curtains may pose limitations due to their often less-than-smooth sliding mechanism, making it difficult for those with mobility aids to enter or exit the shower.

Choosing between shower doors and shower curtains ultimately depends on your personal preferences, bathroom layout, and practical considerations. Shower doors provide a modern and elegant aesthetic, easy maintenance, and better water containment, while shower curtains offer versatility and affordability. Assess your bathroom's specific requirements and weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each option to make an informed decision that will enhance both the functionality and style of your bathroom. Remember, whether you opt for shower doors or shower curtains, the ultimate goal is to create a bathing space that suits your needs and reflects your unique taste.

Ready to start your shower door journey? Take our Find-Your-Door Quiz!