Clawfoot Tub Shower Curtain Solutions

Clawfoot tubs exude vintage charm, but their high sides present unique shower curtain challenges. Billowing fabrics, interior moisture buildup, and limited mounting options can make using curtains with these freestanding bathtubs frustrating. Fortunately, with some planning and simple upgrades, you can solve common clawfoot tub shower issues.

Measure Your Clawfoot Tub Properly

Achieving full coverage with shower curtains in a clawfoot tub starts with accurately measuring your specific tub.

To find the optimal curtain length, carefully measure the exterior circumference of the tub lip directly under the shower rod mounting location. For depth, measure interior tub depth from the bottom up to where the rod will sit. Account for a few extra inches of length to prevent billowing and ensure water containment.

Technique for Accurately Measuring Tub Circumference

Use a flexible cloth tape measure for easiest fit. Start at the front exterior base of the tub, moving slowly up and over the first side. Gently stretch the tape to contour the tub, meeting the far exterior base. Continue moving vertically on the far side, finishing at your starting point.

Measuring Tub Depth and Height

Use a rigid tape measure. Place the end at the lowest interior tub floor point, stretching the tape vertically towards the shower rod mounting location or ceiling. For height, measure from the floor to the rod's bottom edge location.

Choose the Right Shower Curtains and Liners

With measurements in hand, shop for shower curtains and liners tailored to your clawfoot tub.

Match Curtain/Liner Length to Tub Measurement

Choose shower liners and shower curtains with lengths equal to or greater than your unique tub circumference. Curtains should drape 2-3 inches beyond the exterior tub edges without pooling excessively.

Optimal Shower Curtain Fabric Types

Semi-opaque vinyl and microfiber liners offer durability without feeling overly clinical. For shower curtains, look for antimicrobial polyester, nylon blends, or thick woven cotton.

Clear vs. Decorative Liner Options

Clear vinyl liners provide maximum moisture protection while showcasing decorative shower curtains. For simpler style, pair decorative patterned liners with solid shower curtains.

Consider a Tailored Shower Liner or Hem

Some clawfoot tub owners opt to professionally hem shower liners 1-2 inches or have them tailored for a custom fit. This helps prevent shower curtain blowing into the tub from all sides, especially in vintage tubs with slightly convex sides.

Prevent Billowing With Custom-Fit Shower Liners

Having an experienced seamstress measure and adjust liner dimensions precisely to your tub can minimize gaps.

Techniques for Hemming or Altering Shower Curtains

• French seam encloses raw edges
• Straight hems flipped up 1-2 inches
• Adding lead weights to curtain bottom

Install a Sturdy Shower Curtain Rod

Clawfoot tubs require shower rods capable of spanning their ample circumference and suspending shower liners, curtains, and accessories.

Rod Height for Clawfoot Tub Clearance

Rods should mount high enough to drape curtains 2-3 inches below the exterior tub lip to contain water. Allow 6 inches minimum from tub rim to rod underside.

Durable Shower Curtain Rod Materials

Look for straight or curved rods in sturdy metal alloys like stainless steel or chrome with diameters over 1 inch for stability.

Tension Rod Pros and Cons

Adjustable spring tension rods slip into place between tub walls without drilling but may lack durability over time.

Use Weights or Magnets to Secure Shower Curtains

Strategically placed weights or magnets along shower curtains and liners can reduce annoying mid-shower billowing in clawfoot tubs.

Types of Weights and Magnets

• Hemmed curtains with sealed weights or beads
• Ring weights clipped along curtain tops
• Magnet sets bonded to curtain edges

Placement Tips for Optimal Security

Distribute weights evenly every 6-8 inches along the liner top hem or edges. Focus extra weights near curtain middles prone to billowing inward.

Maintain Proper Ventilation to Reduce Condensation

Excess moisture from clawfoot tub showers can lead to curtain sticking and interior fog. Manage humid air with ventilation.

Bathroom Ventilation Best Practices

• Run exhaust fan during and after showering
• Crack bathroom window to circulate fresh air
• Consider installing a humidity-sensing vent fan

Small Space Heater Options

A compact ceramic heater on a bath-safe shelf quickly warms air to reduce condensation and curtain clinging after hot showers.

Adjustable Shower Curtain Rods

Clawfoot tubs vary widely in size and architecture. Adjustable shower rods conveniently customize to fit your exact tub length.

Extendable Rods to Fit Various Tub Sizes

Telescoping adjustable straight rods and tension rods stretch 1-2 feet longer than standard sizes. Use adjustable wall mount or ceiling brackets.

Customizing Adjustable Pole Length

Measure the end-to-end exterior length across tub edges needing rod coverage. Adjust rod extension to match this length or size up to the next available rod length option.

Creative Solutions for Tricky Clawfoot Tub Layouts

Uniquely shaped vintage tubs in corner layouts present further shower curtain challenges. Get creative with mounting and curtain solutions.

Corner Tub Shower Rod Options

• 90-degree angled rods
• Curved rods anchoring three tub sides
• Two straight rods meeting at corner

Alternate Rod Mounting Locations

Consider mounting shorter rods directly into sturdy tub edges or opt for ceiling brackets above challenging corner tubs.

FAQs and Troubleshooting for Clawfoot Tub Shower Curtains

Covering some common clawfoot tub shower curtain questions provides helpful solutions knowledge upfront.

Addressing Common Clawfoot Tub Shower Curtain Issues

• Q: Why does my liner blow into the tub?
• A: Tailor curtains and liners to fit your tub dimensions or weigh down edges.
• Q: How do I limit moisture buildup?
• A: Open bathroom windows and run vent fans during/after showering.

Quick Fixes and Hacks

• Bind liner edges with strong magnets
• Velcro adhesive strips to secure blowing edges

Revel in the vintage appeal of clawfoot bathtubs without sacrificing enjoyable, carefree showers. A few strategic tweaks go a long way towards solving even tricky tub layouts and moisture woes.

With the right length shower curtains and liners, heavy-duty rods, adjustable mounting, ventilation, and secure weights or magnets, you can eliminate annoying curtain billowing and sticking.

Take precise tub measurements, shop for durable bath hardware, and get creative fitting rods in tight spaces for showers as peaceful as a relaxing bath.