As every homeowner knows, the right kind of shower curtain can really enhance the décor of their whole bathroom - so it is very important to select the proper shower curtain for your bathroom.

Choosing the Proper Size, Material and Design

When choosing your shower curtains, you must make sure that they are of the proper size. A standard size shower curtain is 72 inches X 72 inches, but other sizes are also available, including wide (they extend out further than the standard size) and extra long (which are less likely to come out of the bathtub while you are showering). When choosing children's shower curtains, it is best to get them in the extra long size.

Most shower curtains are made of either vinyl, cloth or plastic, or some combination of the two. Shower curtains actually serve two purposes in the bathroom: protection from water splashes, and ensuring privacy for the bather.

If you want adequate water protection as well as a nice-looking shower curtain design, you should hang two shower curtains: one on the inside (for protection from water splashes) and one that shows from the outside, which can be used solely for decoration or its design.

Of course, today's homeowner has many choices in shower curtain types and designs: hookless shower curtains, fabric shower curtains, exotic prints and designer shower curtains, as well as children's shower curtains in all kinds of fun designs.

Proper Installation of Your Shower Curtains

Proper installation of shower curtains is essential. Improperly installing shower curtains can cause them to leak water. Make sure that you have all the proper hardware (hooks or loops) or special fixtures (such as removable hanging bars used with the hookless type shower curtains). Be careful that you do not tear or rip the fabric of the shower curtain when you hang it, as rips and tears can cause the shower curtain to come down off of the hooks, shortening the life of the curtain. If you are short in height, you may need to stand on a small stool or step-ladder to reach the hanging bar properly. If you have a longer or wider shower area, then purchase an extra long or extra wide shower curtain to provide extra coverage.

Care of Your Shower Curtains

All shower curtains are subject to the build up of things like soap scum, mildew and mold. The wet, humid environment of the shower is perfect for the growth of germs as well - so you should use a disinfectant cleaner on your shower curtains to kill germs and inhibit the growth of mold and mildew. Shower stalls and shower curtains should be allowed to dry thoroughly after daily use. Cloth shower curtains should be washed regularly. All shower curtains should be replaced every 1-3 years, especially the plastic/vinyl types.