Beach, Please! Must-Have Features for Coastal Shower Curtains
The sound of crashing waves, the feel of sand beneath your feet, the salty smell of the ocean breeze. These sensations instantly relax and rejuvenate us, transporting our minds to sunny shores and idyllic island getaways.
You can capture that blissful seaside ambiance right in your own bathroom with the addition of coastal themed shower curtains. These vibrant and cheery curtains infuse bathrooms with the laidback charm of life by the water.
Create a Soothing Retreat
After a stressful day, walking into a bathroom oasis with tranquil coastal motifs is just what you need to wash the tension away. The soft colors and patterns have a soothing, zen-like quality that promotes deep relaxation.
Whether you choose pale ocean blues, neutral tans and sand shades, or bright tropical hues, a coastal curtain sets the tone for serenity. Gentle imagery like rolling waves, swaying palms, seashells and starfish have an inherently calming effect.
Waking up to these peaceful sights in the morning helps start your day on a pleasant, positive note. And the curtains provide a welcoming backdrop as you decompress and unwind at night.
Add Interest to Bathroom Design
Shower curtains make a bold style statement and serve as the main focal point in a bathroom. Coastal designs instantly spice up plain white or neutral backdrops.
You have the freedom to reflect your individual personality and preferences. Select playful, punchy tropical prints or muted nautical stripes. Go modern with abstract watercolors or timeless with sailboats and anchors.
Coastal shower curtains effortlessly pull together your bath decor. Coordinate with other accessories like rugs, art, towels, and ceramics for a cohesive seaside oasis.
| Ocean Blues | Bring cool, calming hues reminiscent of sea and sky into the space. |
| Tropical Brights | Pops of coral, orange and fuchsia energize and revitalize. |
| Neutral Tones | Subtle beiges, sand and driftwood colors create cozy, natural look. |
Enhance the Beach House Experience
For coastal homes or vacation rentals, a beachy shower curtain is a must. It instantly enhances that carefree, relaxed beach house vibe guests crave.
Transport renters to paradise with curtains evoking tropical locales. Choose designs featuring local flora and fauna for an authentic touch. Make cottages feel cozier with muted nautical or weathered shore prints.
Not only will guests appreciate the charming decor, but bright, welcoming curtains also help showcase rental spaces online. A beautiful shower curtain helps elevate interior photos.
Provide Practical Shower Enclosure
Besides being stylish, coastal shower curtains excel at their main purpose - keeping water inside the shower or tub area. Look for durable, water-resistant fabrics that can withstand high moisture environments.
Many coastal curtains feature polyester or a polyester-cotton blend. The synthetic polyester fibers resist mildew growth and help curtains maintain their vibrant colors through years of use.
Curtains should be easy to care for - machine washable and quick drying. Opt for weighted hems or magnets for optimal coverage and prevent billowing when the shower is in use.
Fabrics - The Critical Foundation
Cotton and Polyester Blends
Look for a cotton and polyester blend, which provides the best of both worlds. Natural cotton offers exceptional softness, breathability, and absorption. Polyester adds durability, fade and stain resistance, and fast drying capability.
The cotton content gives the curtain a luxuriously soft hand, while the polyester allows it to dry quickly to inhibit mildew growth in the humid bathroom environment.
Coastal designs are brought to life on these fabrics, and you can confidently machine wash to keep curtains fresh and vibrant for years.
100% Polyester
For even greater moisture resistance, 100% polyester shower curtains are ideal. The synthetic fibers prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
Curtains maintain their rich colors and don't easily stain. Many are enhanced with durable water repellent (DWR) coatings that prevent water absorption and pooling.
Be aware that 100% polyester often feels more plasticky than natural fabrics like cotton. But the longevity and cleaning ease make them perfect for bathrooms.
Other Fabric Considerations
Additional features to look for include:
- Antimicrobial properties to inhibit bacteria and microbe growth
- Blackout fabrics that prevent light filtering for added privacy
- Olefin fiber blends for softness, strength, and moisture wicking
- Silicone, vinyl or other water repellent coatings
Also check the fabric's weight, weave tightness, and opacity. Sheer curtains require a liner for coverage. Heavyweights provide more luxury and fullness.
Must-Have Design Motifs
Ocean Waves and Tropical Prints
Look for coastal designs featuring your favorite aquatic elements. Printed panels depicting rolling waves, sea turtles swimming amid abstract watercolors, or bright tropical flowers provide endless inspiration.
Many designs incorporate different patterns on each side. Display vibrant tropical hues inside, while serene blues and greens create a soothing backdrop within the shower.
Add oceanside whimsy with curtains showcasing playful sharks, jumping dolphins, frolicking whales, and smiling octopuses. These fun motifs light up the room.
Beaches and Shorelines
Bring the essence of the shoreline into the bathroom with curtains reflecting your favorite beach landscapes. Choose patterns showcasing frothy crashing waves, weathered driftwood, seashells scattered upon the sand, and golden sunsets over the sea.
Photographic prints allow you to hang your cherished vacation memories. Or select graphic designs with an artistic, interpretive coastal aesthetic for a more modern look.
Under the Sea Life
Reminiscent of coral reefs, designs with swaying seaweed, bright tropical fish, bubbling seashells, and playful octopuses infuse bathrooms with an under the sea mood.
Kids and adults alike will delight in these whimsical aquatic motifs. They provide a bit of submerged magic and create a cheerful, welcoming space.
Ideal Size for Full Coverage
One caveat - be sure to measure your shower or tub area carefully before purchasing. Standard sizes are 72" W x 72" H or 72" x 84", but dimensions can vary by brand.
Having several extra inches in width provides sufficient overlap. And additional length prevents drafts, leaks, and puddling. Allow 1-3 inches above the top of your shower area.
A tailored fit prevents billowing, while still permitting easy opening and closing. Getting accurate measurements ensures an ideal look and coverage.
Coordinate With Other Coastal Accessories
To complete your seaside sanctuary, accessorize with coordinating towels, bath rugs, wall art, hooks, and other bath essentials flaunting similar coastal motifs.
Opt for matching prints, or stick to the same color palette. Accessories abounding with ocean blues, sand tones, or beachy patterns establish harmony.
Look for soaps, candles, tissue holders, wastebaskets, and shower caddies featuring shells, starfish, or sea glass accents. The coastal details provide a cohesive relaxed vibe.
Shower Curtain Rod Considerations
Don't overlook the shower curtain rod. Choose a finish that coordinates with other bathroom hardware for a pulled together look.
Curved rods or those extending beyond the shower stall create a spa-like feel. Tension rods easily install without drilling and are ideal for rentals.
For heavy fabric curtains, select sturdy metal rods with double brackets. Hanging rings or hooks should slide smoothly along the rod without catching.
Coastal shower curtains are an easy, affordable way to infuse bathrooms with breezy, beachy style. With countless designs and fabrics to choose from, you can find the perfect curtain to transform your bathroom into a relaxing, seaside escape.
Keep key details like size, fabric, and coastal motifs in mind to select a high quality curtain that checks all the boxes. Then complete the look with coordinating accessories for a cohesive coastal oasis.