Shower Curtains Billowing In? 12 Simple Clawfoot Tub Solutions Here

If you own a clawfoot tub, you know the struggle. You step into the tub, draw the shower curtain, and turn on the water only to have the curtain billow in and stick to you! The billowing curtain attaches to your body, flooding water onto the floor. It's annoying, inconvenient, and ruins the entire shower experience.

But it doesn't have to be this way. With some simple, affordable solutions, you can say goodbye to billowing shower curtains and enjoy your clawfoot tub shower again.

What Causes Clawfoot Tub Shower Curtains to Billow Inward?

Clawfoot tubs have a unique shape and curvature that allows more airflow around the shower curtain compared to a standard rectangular tub. The uncontrolled air movement within the enclosure contributes to the billowing effect.

According to the Bernoulli Effect principle, faster moving air outside the shower curtain lowers the air pressure. The higher pressure inside pushes the curtain outward. As the curtain gets pushed out, differences in velocity and pressure cause it to flutter inwards.

Additionally, the shower creates a vortex of swirling air current within the clawfoot tub enclosure. This vortex pulls the shower curtain inwards as you start the water.

Solution #1 - Use Extra Magnets

Placing powerful neodymium magnets along the vertical edges and bottom hem of the shower curtain can help hold it tightly against the tub. The magnets keep the fabric sealed without restricting access into and out of the shower.

Aim for at least 6-8 magnets around the sides and bottom. Make sure they are strong enough to withstand the billowing effect and water splashes.

Pros

• Inexpensive and easy to install
• Allows full access to tub unlike fixed panels
• Magnets are reusable and can be rearranged

Cons

• Not as secure a barrier as glass enclosures
• Still depends on magnet strength and curtain quality

Solution #2 - Add Weights to Bottom Hem

Adding weighted magnets, beads, or other dense materials into the bottom hem of the shower curtain can also help reduce billowing. The weights add drag and pull the curtain straight down rather than blowing inwards.

Aim for removable weights so you can adjust as needed. Make sure they are heavy enough for the job but still allow the curtain to slide smoothly along the rod.

Pros

• Another inexpensive, simple fix
• Easily adjustable to find right amount of weight
• Can be used with existing shower curtains

Cons

• Trial and error to find effective weight
• Curtains may still billow above weighted hem

Solution #3 - Install Tension Rods

Placing additional tension rods on the outer sides of your clawfoot tub can help control shower curtain movement. The tension rods provide horizontal support and minimize how far the curtain can blow inwards.

Aim to place the rods about 6 inches beyond the inner shower rod for optimal control over billowing. High-quality spring rods provide the best hold.

Pros

• Another affordable DIY solution
• Easily adjustable and removable
• Can use in conjunction with other solutions

Cons

• May limit some mobility in small bathrooms
• Still depends on curtain material and quality

Solution #4 - Buy an Extra-Wide Shower Curtain

Wider shower curtains give you more overlap around the clawfoot tub sides, leaving less space for billowing. Look for curtains at least 12 inches wider than your tub length.

The extra width prevents air gaps around the edges, while the added fabric weight further reduces inward billowing during your shower.

Pros

• Wider coverage protects better against billowing
• Many style and material options
• Lightweight and easy to install

Cons

• Still depends on curtain quality and airflow in tub
• Excess fabric when opened can be unwieldy

Solution #5 - Use a Wraparound Shower Curtain

Wraparound shower curtains provide a billow-free solution by wrapping extra side fabric completely around the exposed ends of your clawfoot tub.

This specialty style eliminates air gaps around tub edges that allow billowing. The full coverage design prevents any openings for air to enter.

Pros

• Extra side coverage leaves no gaps
• Creates enveloped, protected shower space
• Available in variety of patterns and materials

Cons

• Limited options compared to standard curtains
• Wrapped sides make access slightly more difficult

Solution #6 - Get a Custom Shower Enclosure

One way to fully prevent shower curtain billowing is to install a custom-made shower enclosure around your clawfoot tub. The floor-to-ceiling glass or tile walls provide a watertight seal while still showing off the tub.

Work with a skilled contractor to create an enclosure tailored to your exact plumbing and tub measurements. Hinged doors allow easy access.

Pros

• Totally eliminates billowing issues
• sleek, built-in look
• Easy access with hinged or sliding doors

Cons

• More expensive, permanent solution
• Moisture buildup on walls requires ventilation
• Limits mobility around the tub area

Solution #7 - Add a Shower Screen

Shower screens offer the coverage of an enclosure with the flexibility of curtains. Free-standing screens mount to your existing plumbing fixtures, then roll, fold, or slide open when needed.

Quality screens provide full front to back coverage while remaining secure. Choose from plastic, acrylic, or even bamboo materials.

Pros

• Adaptable coverage can roll or fold out of the way
• Easy self-installation requiring no remodeling
• More stylish alternative to shower curtains

Cons

• Prone to mold and mildew like curtains
• Some mobility restriction with enclosure in place

Solution #8 - Install Glass Shower Doors

One step up from screens, frameless glass shower doors present a sleek, modern look while sealing in steam and water. Stationary or hinged doors provide a complete view of your clawfoot tub.

Have an experienced installer properly measure and fit the doors to your plumbing fixtures and enclosure space. Keep glass thickness and hardware quality in mind.

Pros

• Sleek, seamless look showing off the tub
• Hinged doors allow easy access
• Custom sizing for perfect fit

Cons

• Higher upfront installation cost
• Condensation and cleaning requirements
• Permanent installation, not easily changeable

Solution #9 - Use an Inflatable Tub Stopper

Inflatable tub stoppers fill the gap between your tub edge and the wall or ceiling. Stopping this airflow and space eliminates a source of the billowing issue.

Easy to inflate and install, a stopper also prevents leaks and allows quick access to plumbing. Place at both ends or along the back side of the tub.

Pros

• Inexpensive flexible solution
• Quick and easy to install
• Can be used with existing shower curtain

Cons

• May slowly deflate over time
• Space savings minimal compared to other options

Solution #10 - Apply Anti-Billow Spray

Anti-billow shower curtain spray is formulated to coat the fabric and make it "cling" to itself. This prevents folds and movement that allow billowing.

Simply apply the spray to both sides of clean shower curtains as directed. Reapply monthly for best results.

Pros

• Quick and easy solution
• Works with existing curtains
• Also has water repellent effects

Cons

• Effects wear off over time
• Lower efficacy than physical solutions

Solution #11 - Add Tie-Backs for Corner Access

Shower tie-backs allow you to secure most of the curtain while leaving one section open. Useful when you need access to a corner or side of the tub.

Place 2-3 secure tie-backs to keep the main billow-prone areas in check. Open the 1-2 feet needed to reach the tub corners.

Pros

• Allows access without fully opening curtain
• Inexpensive and easy to install
• Works with any shower curtain

Cons

• Can still lead to some billowing
• Water may escape through openings

Solution #12 - Get a Shower Curtain Liner

Adding a shower curtain liner on the inside of your existing curtain can help reduce billowing. The extra layer provides weight and a second water barrier.

Aim for a heavier gauge PVC liner that fits your curtain dimensions. Snap-in liners add convenience while hook-on models have more flexibility.

Pros

• Inexpensive and simple addition
• Liner catches most water splashes
• Easy to replace when needed

Cons

• Liner can also blow around if too lightweight
• Some moisture buildup between layers

As you can see, there are many simple and affordable options to stop your clawfoot tub shower curtain from annoyingly billowing inwards. From a few additional magnets or tension rods to custom shower enclosures, you can upgrade your shower experience.

Review the solutions covered to decide which ones fit your needs, budget and style. With a few easy upgrades, you can say goodbye to the billowing curtain blues and relax during your soothing clawfoot tub shower once again.