Is an Ethylene Vinyl Acetate Shower Curtain Dangerous?

History

• In 2008, the Center for Health, Environment and Justice published a report about PVC shower curtains suggesting that 108 chemicals in PVC shower curtains could cause many ailments, including cancer. Some consumers may be confused as to which type of shower curtain they need to avoid. Many major retailers stopped selling PVC shower curtains in their stores. EVA shower curtains do not require a plastic softener in their manufacturing process, unlike PVC shower curtains. It is that softener that makes the shower curtain flexible, but also contains VOCs, according to the book “The Body Toxic.”

Misconception

• PVC is short for polyvinyl chloride. PVC shower curtains are commonly called vinyl shower curtains. But the "vinyl" in ethylene vinyl acetate is different from the polyvinyl in PVC. PVC contains chlorine while ethylene vinyl acetate does not. EVA also is used in adhesives, coatings for wires, films and in toys.

Other Advantages

• EVA shower curtains also contain two other significant advantages over PVC shower curtains. EVA shower curtains lack the overpowering plastic odor that new PVC curtains give off. This "new shower curtain smell" can trigger headaches and nausea. EVA shower curtains are biodegradable, unlike traditional PVC shower curtains. But like PVC shower curtains, EVA shower curtains are available in a variety of colors and patterns.

Mold and Mildew Prevention

• Moldy shower curtains not only look bad, they are unhealthy. The smell of mold or mildew can trigger asthma attacks. People with mold allergies need to keep their shower curtains mold and mildew free. Many EVA shower curtains can be dry cleaned or are machine washable, but check the manufacturer’s cleaning suggestions before placing in a washing machine. After every shower, spread the curtain out and do not fold it back until it is dry. Dry shower curtains prevent the growth of bacteria that cause mold and mildew. Opening a window after a shower or using a dehumidifier in the bathroom helps keep the shower curtain dry, suggests the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.