A floor to ceiling shower curtain can completely transform your bathroom. Unlike a standard shower curtain that only covers the front of your shower or tub, a floor to ceiling shower curtains gives you complete coverage from top to bottom. This creates a spa-like atmosphere in your bathroom and also helps contain water and moisture.
Benefits of Floor to Ceiling Shower Curtains
There are many advantages to using a full length shower curtain in your bathroom:
More Privacy
A floor to ceiling shower curtain provides maximum privacy while you’re bathing. You won’t have to worry about any gaps that allow people to see in from the rest of the bathroom. This makes it ideal if your shower is in a high traffic area or you have roommates or family members sharing the space.
Contains Water and Moisture
Standard size shower curtains often leave the walls and ceiling surrounding the shower exposed. This allows water to escape and moisture to build up. A floor to ceiling curtain contains all the water inside the enclosed shower area. This prevents puddles on your bathroom floor and moisture damage on the walls and ceiling.
Stylish Design Element
Unlike a plastic standard shower curtain, floor to ceiling curtains are available in a wide range of stylish fabrics like linen, cotton, and polyester. Choosing a curtain with an attractive pattern or texture can add a nice design element to your bathroom.
Greater Sense of Spaciousness
Floor to ceiling shower curtains make your bathroom feel more spacious than it actually is. The curtain creates a distinct separation between the shower and the rest of the room. This makes the shower feel like it has its own space.
Easy to Install
Putting up a floor to ceiling shower curtain is a quick and easy upgrade. All you need to do is install a ceiling mounted curtain rod, hang the curtain, and you have an instant transformation. No need for complicated permanent construction.
What to Consider When Choosing a Floor to Ceiling Shower Curtain
Here are some important factors to consider when shopping for the perfect floor to ceiling shower curtain:
Size
Make sure to measure the exact dimensions of your shower or tub area before ordering a curtain. The curtain needs to be long enough to reach all the way from the ceiling to the floor without any gaps. Add an extra 12-24 inches to the length to allow for some puddling at the bottom.
The width should extend 12 inches beyond each side of your shower opening to prevent water from escaping. Avoid choosing a curtain that’s too narrow or it won’t contain the water properly.
Material
Floor to ceiling shower curtains come in water-repellent fabrics like polyester, nylon, and vinyl. These help repel moisture and prevent mold or mildew growth on the curtain. Look for a polyester liner on the backside for maximum water resistance.
Natural fabrics like cotton and linen provide a high-end hotel feel but they tend to soak up moisture. Make sure to frequently wash and completely dry out natural fabric curtains to prevent mold growth.
Weight and Texture
Look for a lightweight woven fabric that allows for easy pulling back and forth on the curtain rod. Avoid stiff plastic-like fabrics that won’t gracefully drape and fold.
The texture is also key. Very thin or see-through fabrics don’t provide enough coverage and privacy. Find a tightly woven fabric in the right weight that is opaque from both sides when wet.
Color/Pattern
This curtain will act as a major focal point so make sure to choose a color and pattern that fits your overall bathroom design style. Neutral earth tones or simple patterns are great choices that won’t go out of style.
If your bathroom decor needs a punch of color, choose a vibrant patterned curtain in colors that pop against the surrounding tiles and finishes. Just make sure it complements the rest of the space.
Curtain Rod Selection
You need the right curtain rod to properly hang your floor to ceiling shower curtain. Look for an adjustable ceiling mounted rod that extends end-to-end across the shower opening. Stainless steel or aluminum rods hold up best in the humidity and moisture of bathrooms.
The rod needs to be securely mounted into a ceiling stud with heavy duty anchors. Tension rods or rods that mount to the walls surrounding the shower will not work. They won’t be able to handle the weight of a large wet curtain.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Installing a floor to ceiling shower curtain is a straightforward process. Just follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Measure Across Shower Opening
Use a tape measure to measure across the entire shower or tub opening from wall to wall. Add an extra 12 inches on each side to determine the minimum width needed for the curtain rod. Write down this final width measurement.
Step 2: Mark Ceiling Stud Locations
Locate the ceiling studs directly above the shower using a stud finder. Mark the center of each stud with a pencil. These mark where you will attach the ends of the curtain rod.
If there is not a stud aligned above each end, you may need to adjust the rod width or add ceiling plate anchors to securely mount in drywall between studs.
Step 3: Select Rod and Cut to Width
Purchase an adjustable straight ceiling mount curtain rod in the correct width for your shower measurements. Use a hacksaw to cut the rod down to your exact custom width, if needed.
Or look for telescoping rods that allow you to adjust to the perfect width by simply twisting connectors. This avoids any cutting.
Step 4: Attach Ceiling Brackets
Screw the heavy duty ceiling brackets into your marked ceiling stud locations using a drill and screws. Make sure they are perfectly aligned across from each other.
Use toggle bolts if screwing brackets into drywall without studs. Just make sure they are very securely attached to hold the rod.
Step 5: Mount Rod to Brackets
Fit the ends of the curtain rod into the ceiling brackets per the manufacturer’s directions. For telescoping rods, twist connectors until the rod is snugly fit between the brackets.
Use set screws, if provided with the brackets, to firmly hold the rod in place. Don’t allow any sideways wiggle room.
Step 6: Hang Shower Curtain
Slip shower curtain rings onto the rod, spacing evenly across. Hang your new floor to ceiling shower curtain and slide the rings onto the rod.
For very wide shower openings, use s-shaped curtain hooks rather than rings. This allows each panel of curtains to move more smoothly and independently.
Step 7: Seal With Waterproof Liner (optional)
For maximum water protection, hang a clear plastic waterproof liner from the ceiling to the tub or floor on the inside of the curtain. This is the final layer to keep any escaping water contained.
And that’s it! Your new floor to ceiling shower curtain is installed and ready to enjoy.
5 Stylish Floor to Ceiling Shower Curtain Ideas
Here are some attractive and functional floor to ceiling shower curtain ideas to transform your bathroom:
1. Serene Spa Retreat
Create a tranquil spa-like feel with a linen curtain in natural earth tones like cream, light brown, or stone gray. Hang multiple linen panels on s-hooks for a layered look. Add wood spa accessories and potted plants.
2. Boho Chic
Free-spirited bohemian style shower curtains made of lightweight cotton or linen prints are all the rage. Look for globally inspired patterns in bright colors with pom pom or macrame fringe details.
3. Pure Elegance
For a sophisticated look, select a floor to ceiling curtain made of soft satin polyester in a striking solid color like emerald green or deep purple. Fabric shower curtain hooks in a matching color tone complete the elegant vibe.
4. Coastal Charm
Bring beach house vibes with cotton, linen, or polyester curtains in coral, turquoise, and tan hues. Look for curtains with seashell, coral, or nautical print patterns. Roll top wood crates for storage add to the coastal charm.
5. Modern and Minimalist
For contemporary style, try a plain white or light gray floor length polyester shower curtain. Stainless steel or black metal grommeted rings give it a sleek, minimalist look. Add matching bath accessories.
Shower Curtain Maintenance Tips
To keep your floor to ceiling shower curtains looking fresh and prevent mold growth, be sure to:
- Allow curtains to completely dry out between uses by keeping them pulled open.
- Wash polyester curtains periodically with bleach-free detergent. Follow label instructions.
- Hand wash natural fabric curtains gently. Avoid machine washing which can damage them over time.
- Replace shower curtain liners every 3-6 months as needed when they appear grimy.
- Use a diluted white vinegar and water solution to wipe down curtain liner and inhibit soap scum and mildew.
- Avoid using fabric softener which can coat fibers and reduce water repellency.
- For stiff curtains, add a 1⁄2 cup of hair conditioner to the rinse cycle to soften.
Conclusion
Transforming your bathroom with a floor to ceiling shower curtain is an easy and affordable upgrade. With maximum coverage from top to bottom, these curtains provide increased privacy, contain moisture, and make a stylish design statement.
Carefully measure your shower dimensions, choose a durable and water-repellent fabric, install a proper ceiling mount rod, and hang using the right hooks. With the right maintenance, your new floor to ceiling shower curtain will keep its fresh look for years of daily use. No longer will you have to deal with limited coverage and blowing shower curtains.
FAQs
What size curtain rod do I need for a floor to ceiling shower curtain?
Measure the width of your shower opening from wall to wall. Add at least 12 inches to each side when sizing your ceiling mount curtain rod to allow a full overlap.
How do I clean mildew from my fabric shower curtain?
Mix together 1 cup of bleach-free detergent with 1 cup of white vinegar in 1 gallon of hot water. Submerge the curtain and soak for 15 minutes before washing normally. This helps remove mildew and soap scum buildup.
Should I use a plastic liner with a fabric shower curtain?
Yes, it’s recommended to use a plastic liner on the inside of fabric curtains to better contain water and moisture. This prevents mold growth on the outer fabric.
What is the best way to hang a floor to ceiling shower curtain?
Use a straight, adjustable stainless steel or aluminum ceiling mount curtain rod with heavy duty brackets screwed into studs. Hang multiple curtain panels using s-shaped hooks for easy gliding.
How do I prevent my shower curtain from blowing in and sticking to me?
Use s-shaped hooks rather than circular rings to allow each curtain panel to move independently. Or install a curved shower rod to angle the curtain away from the shower water.
