There are few things more aggravating than to start hanging your shower curtain only to discover that the rings you adore will not fit around the rod. To avoid this, measure the circumference of the rod before you go shopping for rings. Take this measurement with you and ensure that the rings you choose are larger than the circumference of the rod. Also, if you have a rod with an extension, measure the larger end of the rod and use that measurement to choose your curtain rings.
Wider rings will not fit through all shower curtains. Shower curtains with perforated holes can rip if you attempt to use a shower curtain ring thicker than the hole. Also, some shower curtains with reinforced metal eyelets might be too narrow for thicker rings. If possible, take the shower curtain with you when you pick out the rings and compare the circumference of the rings with the circumference of the curtain holes.
Some shower curtains are decorative on one side and lined on the other. Other curtains are merely decorative and need a liner to to serve as the actual water barrier. if you are going to use two curtains, make sure your shower rings are wide and long enough to accommodate two curtains. If the ring is not wide enough the curtains will bunch on the ring, making it difficult to open and close the curtains. If they are not long enough, you will not have enough space between the shower curtain rod and the bottom of the ring for the curtains.
Whether you choose plastic or metal shower hooks depends on several factors. Metal hooks come in shiny silver, brass, copper and matte black, to name a few. These hooks are usually more ornate than plastic hooks, so if you are using a plain shower curtain or just want to add some extra panache to your bathroom ensemble, metal hooks will accomplish this. On the downside, metal hooks can tarnish or rust, so you will have to take extra care when using them. Plastic hooks come in a variety of colors and shapes and will not tarnish or rust. They are also less expensive than metal hooks. If you just want functional shower hooks to complete your shower curtain set, plastic hooks will give you that functionality. Plastic shower hooks can snap, especially with excessive weight of a wet curtain and liner, so choose sturdy plastic hooks that snap together if you will be using more than one curtain for your shower.