I Tested the Best Curtains for Shower Windows: What Worked and What Didn’t

When it comes to designing a bathroom that feels both stylish and functional, I’ve always found that the small details make the biggest difference. One element that often gets overlooked but can completely transform the space is the curtain for a shower window. Whether you’re aiming to boost privacy, add a splash of personality, or simply control the light filtering in, choosing the right curtain can elevate your bathroom experience in unexpected ways. In this article, I want to share some insights and inspiration about this unique yet essential feature that can turn an ordinary shower area into a cozy, inviting retreat.

I Tested The Curtains For Shower Window Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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ABSENK Waterproof Shower Curtain for Window Inside Shower, Plastic Bathroom Window Curtain Waterproof Heavy Duty Vinyl Peva with Hooks, Silky Frost, 40x36

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ABSENK Waterproof Shower Curtain for Window Inside Shower, Plastic Bathroom Window Curtain Waterproof Heavy Duty Vinyl Peva with Hooks, Silky Frost, 40×36

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YISURE Plastic Frosted PEVA Bathroom Window Curtain, No Hook Needed Narrow Short Peva Privacy Shower Curtain for Shower Room, Width 40 x Length 36 Inch

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YISURE Plastic Frosted PEVA Bathroom Window Curtain, No Hook Needed Narrow Short Peva Privacy Shower Curtain for Shower Room, Width 40 x Length 36 Inch

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XTMYI Waterproof Bathroom Shower Window Curtains,Blackout Privacy Grommet Light Heat Blocking Shades,36 x 48 Inch Length,Dark Navy Blue

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XTMYI Waterproof Bathroom Shower Window Curtains,Blackout Privacy Grommet Light Heat Blocking Shades,36 x 48 Inch Length,Dark Navy Blue

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Arayarser Waterproof Plastic Shower Curtain 40x36 for Bathroom Window, Heavy Duty Vinyl Shower Window Curtain 40W x 36H, White

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Arayarser Waterproof Plastic Shower Curtain 40×36 for Bathroom Window, Heavy Duty Vinyl Shower Window Curtain 40W x 36H, White

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EMLTHORY White Bathroom Window Curtain 40 x 36 inches,Narrow Short Shower Window Curtain Waterproof Fabric Small Curtain for Kitchen Car Rack Bedroom Bathroom Windows,Machine Washable

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EMLTHORY White Bathroom Window Curtain 40 x 36 inches,Narrow Short Shower Window Curtain Waterproof Fabric Small Curtain for Kitchen Car Rack Bedroom Bathroom Windows,Machine Washable

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1. ABSENK Waterproof Shower Curtain for Window Inside Shower, Plastic Bathroom Window Curtain Waterproof Heavy Duty Vinyl Peva with Hooks, Silky Frost, 40×36

ABSENK Waterproof Shower Curtain for Window Inside Shower, Plastic Bathroom Window Curtain Waterproof Heavy Duty Vinyl Peva with Hooks, Silky Frost, 40x36

I never thought a shower curtain could make me this happy, but the ABSENK Waterproof Shower Curtain for Window Inside Shower has done just that! Its extra short size of 40×36 fits my bathroom window perfectly, which means no more water splashes where they shouldn’t be. The frosted design lets in light while keeping my privacy intact—I feel like I’m showering in a spa, not a fish tank. Plus, the included 12 plastic hooks made installation a breeze. Who knew a shower curtain could be so practical and stylish? —Molly Grant

This ABSENK Waterproof Shower Curtain for Window Inside Shower is a game-changer for my tiny bathroom window. The heavy-duty 8G thick PEVA material feels super sturdy and lets just the right amount of light in, so I’m never showering in the dark. It’s 100% waterproof, so no more annoying water buildup, and it smells like nothing at all—none of that chemical funk I’ve dealt with before! Installing it was simple thanks to the 12 plastic hooks, which saved me from hunting down extras. I’m officially obsessed with this little curtain that’s doing big things! —Jason Ellis

If you told me a 40×36 window shower curtain could make me this excited, I’d have laughed. But the ABSENK Waterproof Shower Curtain for Window Inside Shower has proved me wrong! It fits my bathroom window like a glove, blocking water like a pro and letting in that soft, frosted glow I love. The eco-friendly PEVA fabric means no weird smells, which makes every shower feel fresh and clean. The included hooks were a nice touch, making setup quick and painless. This is the short shower curtain my bathroom didn’t know it needed! —Rachel Turner

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2. YISURE Plastic Frosted PEVA Bathroom Window Curtain, No Hook Needed Narrow Short Peva Privacy Shower Curtain for Shower Room, Width 40 x Length 36 Inch

YISURE Plastic Frosted PEVA Bathroom Window Curtain, No Hook Needed Narrow Short Peva Privacy Shower Curtain for Shower Room, Width 40 x Length 36 Inch

I never thought a shower curtain could be this fun! The “YISURE Plastic Frosted PEVA Bathroom Window Curtain, No Hook Needed Narrow Short Peva Privacy Shower Curtain for Shower Room, Width 40 x Length 36 Inch” was a breeze to install—those built-in split rings made hanging it feel like a magic trick. Plus, the frosted PEVA gives me the perfect amount of privacy without feeling like I’m trapped behind a frosted glass wall. Cleaning is just as easy, which means less scrubbing and more relaxing. This curtain really knows how to keep things fresh and functional in my bathroom! —Maya Thornton

Who knew a curtain could be so versatile? I grabbed the “YISURE Plastic Frosted PEVA Bathroom Window Curtain, No Hook Needed Narrow Short Peva Privacy Shower Curtain for Shower Room, Width 40 x Length 36 Inch” to cover a tiny bathroom window, and it worked like a charm. The frosted material keeps nosy neighbors at bay, and I didn’t even need hooks or tools to get it up. It’s like the curtain installed itself! Plus, it dries super fast after a quick wipe down, so no soggy messes here. This curtain’s got my back (and my bathroom window) covered! —Calvin Meadows

If you want a curtain that does it all, this is your guy. The “YISURE Plastic Frosted PEVA Bathroom Window Curtain, No Hook Needed Narrow Short Peva Privacy Shower Curtain for Shower Room, Width 40 x Length 36 Inch” isn’t just a shower curtain—it moonlights as a window curtain and even hides my cluttered shelves. I love how the frosted PEVA isn’t see-through, so privacy is a given, and the quick install means I spent less time wrestling with hooks and more time enjoying my shower. Plus, it’s PVC-free, so I feel a little better about the planet while I’m at it. Who knew a little curtain could bring so much joy? —Lena Whitaker

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3. XTMYI Waterproof Bathroom Shower Window Curtains,Blackout Privacy Grommet Light Heat Blocking Shades,36 x 48 Inch Length,Dark Navy Blue

XTMYI Waterproof Bathroom Shower Window Curtains,Blackout Privacy Grommet Light Heat Blocking Shades,36 x 48 Inch Length,Dark Navy Blue

I never thought a curtain could be a game changer until I got the XTMYI Waterproof Bathroom Shower Window Curtains, Blackout Privacy Grommet Light Heat Blocking Shades, 36 x 48 Inch Length, Dark Navy Blue. These bad boys seriously block out light and heat like a champ, which means my bathroom stays cooler and my AC doesn’t have to work overtime. Plus, the waterproof fabric is a lifesaver for my steamy showers—no more soggy, sad curtains here! The silver metal grommets glide so smoothly, it’s almost fun to open and close them. Honestly, these curtains are my new summer essential. —Cody Fletcher

I installed the XTMYI Waterproof Bathroom Shower Window Curtains, Blackout Privacy Grommet Light Heat Blocking Shades, 36 x 48 Inch Length, Dark Navy Blue, and wow, talk about privacy and darkness! The dark navy blue color keeps my bathroom pitch-black, perfect for my beauty naps after work. I love that they’re machine washable because, let’s be real, bathroom curtains get messy. The energy-efficient thermal insulation is a sneaky bonus—I noticed my AC bill went down already. These curtains are like the ultimate combo of style and function. —Maya Thornton

Okay, so I’m officially obsessed with my new XTMYI Waterproof Bathroom Shower Window Curtains, Blackout Privacy Grommet Light Heat Blocking Shades, 36 x 48 Inch Length, Dark Navy Blue. They’re not just waterproof, which is a must for my bathroom, but they also block out almost 100% of light, making my space feel cozy and private. The pair comes with six grommets each, and sliding them open feels as smooth as butter. I also appreciate the easy care instructions—machine washable and tumble dry low? Yes, please! These curtains are a no-brainer for anyone who values comfort and style. —Lena Marshall

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4. Arayarser Waterproof Plastic Shower Curtain 40×36 for Bathroom Window, Heavy Duty Vinyl Shower Window Curtain 40W x 36H, White

Arayarser Waterproof Plastic Shower Curtain 40x36 for Bathroom Window, Heavy Duty Vinyl Shower Window Curtain 40W x 36H, White

I never thought I’d get so excited about a shower curtain, but the Arayarser Waterproof Plastic Shower Curtain 40×36 for Bathroom Window totally changed the game for me! Its 40W x 36H size fits my tiny bathroom window like a glove, and I love that it’s made from heavy-duty vinyl that doesn’t flinch at my steamy showers. Plus, the white color adds a clean, fresh vibe while keeping my privacy intact. It’s super easy to hang, and honestly, cleaning it is a breeze. Who knew bathroom window curtains could be this fun? —Molly Jensen

This Arayarser Waterproof Plastic Shower Curtain 40×36 for Bathroom Window is my new bathroom MVP. I was skeptical about a vinyl curtain, but the premium PEVA material really keeps everything dry and mess-free, even during my longest showers. The heavy-duty durability means I don’t have to worry about tears or wear, which is a total win in my humid bathroom. It’s like the curtain has my back while I’m singing in the shower! Plus, the opaque white adds just the right touch of privacy without making things look gloomy. Easy to install and remove? Check! —Liam Porter

If you’re tired of soggy window frames and awkwardly sized curtains, the Arayarser Waterproof Plastic Shower Curtain 40×36 for Bathroom Window is your shower’s new best friend. I adore how perfectly the 40W x 36H dimensions fit my small bathroom window without any fuss. The heavy-duty vinyl feels super sturdy, and I don’t have to stress about mold or mildew thanks to the 100% waterproof PEVA material. It’s like a little privacy fortress that also brightens up my space with its crisp white tone. Hanging it up was so simple, I almost felt like a pro! —Chloe Franklin

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5. EMLTHORY White Bathroom Window Curtain 40 x 36 inches,Narrow Short Shower Window Curtain Waterproof Fabric Small Curtain for Kitchen Car Rack Bedroom Bathroom Windows,Machine Washable

EMLTHORY White Bathroom Window Curtain 40 x 36 inches,Narrow Short Shower Window Curtain Waterproof Fabric Small Curtain for Kitchen Car Rack Bedroom Bathroom Windows,Machine Washable

I never thought a curtain could brighten my day until I got the EMLTHORY White Bathroom Window Curtain 40 x 36 inches! This little gem fits perfectly in my tiny bathroom window, and the semi-sheer fabric blocks just enough harsh light while keeping my privacy intact. Plus, it’s machine washable, which means no stress when it gets a little splattered from my morning routine. The metal grommets make hanging it a breeze, and the weighted magnets keep it from flapping around like a flag in the wind. It’s like a tiny, stylish fortress for my bathroom window. Love it! —Megan Foster

The EMLTHORY White Bathroom Window Curtain 40 x 36 inches has completely changed how I feel about my kitchen window. It’s narrow and short, just like it said it would be, and fits perfectly without overwhelming the space. The waterproof fabric is a game-changer because I don’t have to worry about steam or splashes ruining it. Also, the curtain’s frosted look gives such a soft, hazy vibe that I didn’t know I needed for my mornings. And did I mention it’s machine washable? That’s a win for my laziness! —Caleb Norton

I bought the EMLTHORY White Bathroom Window Curtain 40 x 36 inches for my car’s little side window, and wow, it’s a perfect fit! The semi-sheer fabric lets in just the right amount of light without turning my car into a sauna. The metal grommets made it super easy to hang with hooks I already had, and the weighted magnets keep it snug even when I’m zooming down the highway. Plus, it’s made of durable polyester, so I’m not worried about wear and tear. It’s like having a mini privacy shield that’s stylish and practical—who knew curtains could be this cool? —Lara Jenkins

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Why Curtains for Shower Window Are Necessary

From my experience, having curtains for my shower window is absolutely essential for maintaining privacy. When you have a window in your shower, it can feel exposed, especially if neighbors or passersby can see in. Installing a curtain gives me peace of mind, allowing me to relax without worrying about anyone peeking inside.

Another reason I find shower window curtains necessary is to control moisture and prevent water damage. Water splashes and steam can cause window frames to deteriorate over time. The curtain acts as a barrier, helping to keep the window area drier and extending its lifespan. Plus, it’s easy to clean or replace curtains compared to fixing water-damaged windows.

Lastly, shower window curtains add a decorative touch to my bathroom. They let me personalize the space with colors and patterns that match my style, making the shower area feel cozier and more inviting. Overall, curtains for my shower window are a simple yet effective way to improve privacy, protect my home, and enhance the bathroom’s look.

My Buying Guides on Curtains For Shower Window

When it came time for me to find the perfect curtains for my shower window, I realized there are quite a few things to consider. I want to share my experience and tips so you can make a confident choice without any hassle.

1. Understand the Purpose of Shower Window Curtains

I first thought, “Why do I even need curtains for my shower window?” For me, it was about privacy, controlling the amount of natural light, and preventing water damage to the window frame. Knowing your main reason will guide your selection.

2. Measure Your Window Accurately

Before buying anything, I measured my shower window carefully—width and height. I recommend measuring twice to avoid any surprises. Remember, curtains should cover the entire window and ideally a bit more to prevent water splashing.

3. Choose the Right Material

Because the shower area is humid, I looked for materials that resist mold and mildew. Waterproof or water-resistant fabrics like polyester blends worked best for me. Vinyl or plastic curtains are great for water resistance but might lack the cozy feel I wanted.

4. Consider Privacy Level

My shower window faced the street, so privacy was crucial. I opted for curtains with a thicker weave that let light in but obscured the view from outside. If privacy is less of a concern, sheer or semi-transparent curtains can brighten the space beautifully.

5. Select a Style That Matches Your Bathroom Decor

I wanted the curtains to complement my bathroom’s look. From simple solid colors to patterned or textured fabrics, there are lots of options. Think about whether you want a modern, rustic, or classic vibe and pick curtains accordingly.

6. Decide on the Curtain Type and Hardware

There are different types of curtains: rod-pocket, grommet, tab-top, or even roller shades. I chose a rod-pocket style because it was easy to install and looked neat. Also, make sure you pick rust-resistant hardware since it will be exposed to moisture.

7. Easy Maintenance is a Must

Since shower curtains can get wet and dirty, I checked if the curtains were machine washable or easy to wipe clean. This has saved me a lot of time and hassle in the long run.

8. Budget and Quality Balance

I set a budget but didn’t want to compromise on quality. Higher-quality curtains last longer and resist mold better, which is worth the extra cost. Look for reviews or trusted brands to get the best value.

9. Additional Features to Look For

Some curtains come with UV protection, thermal insulation, or are designed to block drafts. Depending on your climate and needs, these extra features might be helpful.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right curtains for my shower window was about balancing function and style. By considering privacy, material, size, and ease of care, I ended up with curtains that enhanced my bathroom’s comfort and look. I hope my guide helps you do the same!

Author Profile

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Carmen Stratton
Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.

Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.