Differences Between a Polyester & a Nylon Shower Curtain Liner

Shower Curtain Liners

• A shower curtain liner can help to extend the life of your shower curtain, protecting it from water stains, soap scum, mildew and hard water deposits. Decorative fabric shower curtains are particularly vulnerable to damage because fabric absorbs moisture and the fibers might become stained. Dark mold and mildew stains can be difficult to remove without damaging fabrics. A liner hangs on the inside of the shower curtain, between the decorative curtain and the shower nozzle, so that the water, soap and shampoo comes into contact with the liner instead of the outer shower curtain.

Polyester Shower Curtain Liners

• Manufacturers make polyester from petroleum. This durable fabric tends to resist tearing and staining. It also resists wrinkles, so as a shower curtain liner it hangs well and tends to remain free of creases. It's machine washable, making it easy to maintain. Fabric shower curtain liners, such as polyester, have a soft feel and dry more completely than plastic or vinyl liners -- and offer a green alternative, free of noxious odors. Certain polyester shower curtain liners are treated with coatings to make them more water repellent.

Nylon Shower Curtain Liners

• Nylon shower curtain liners are made of nylon, a strong, synthetic material that's used for everything from windbreaker jackets to camping tents. Nylon, especially when it's tightly woven, tends to repel water, rather than becoming saturated, making it suitable for a shower curtain liner. It resists abrasion and like polyester, tends to resist mold growth. Nylon also comes in solid, not woven, material similar to plastic. Nylon shower curtain liners tend to resist mildew, although they can show hard water spots and other stains.

Shower Curtain Liner Care

• Washing a shower curtain liner with a load of towels in the washing machine will help to remove water spots, soap scum and discolorations. Add one cup of white vinegar to help remove mineral deposits if you have hard water. The high mineral content in hard water causes white or crusty material to build up in the shower, including on the liner. Use hot or warm water and your regular laundry detergent to wash the shower curtain liner. Hang the liner to dry, to avoid creases and the risk of overheating the liner in the drier.