Choose a More Natural Shower Curtain

Know that strong smell as you unfold your new vinyl shower curtain? Those are chemicals being released into your air.

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Photo: Diane Diederich / istock

By The Daily Green Staff

Know that familiar smell when you open the package and unfold a new vinyl shower curtain? That's the off-gassing of chemicals from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic. One of the chemical additives, DEHP, a phthalate, is chemically similar to human hormones, and may be disruptive to the endocrine system, with various potential health effects. But it's just one of several types of volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) that enter the air from PVC plastics; the health effects of breathing VOCs vary, but health experts such a those at the American Lunch Association recommend limiting exposure. One Environmental Protection Agency study found that vinyl shower curtains can elevate VOC concentrations in your home for a month!

When it comes time to replace your shower curtain, look into options made with natural fibers, like cotton, bamboo or hemp linens. There are also non-PVC curtains, made of a plastic called PEVA that doesn't include the chlorine molecules that make PVC such a health concern. Still, plastic is a non-renewable resource, typically made from petroleum, so while it's a more healthy choice, for your family and the workers who manufacture it, PEVA is still plastic.

Of course, PVC has been preferred for years because it is both cheap and mold-resistant. Take note of washing instructions on any new fiber curtains, and mix up a batch of natural disinfectant (2 cups of water, 3 tablespoons of liquid soap and 20 to 30 drops of tea tree oil) to help keep mold at bay. Replacing the problematic chlorine in PVC plastics with chlorine in bleach isn't the way to go!

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