Explanations and Solutions to the Shower Curtain Effect

Before discussing solutions, you might want to know why exactly your shower curtain sucks in rather than being pushed outwards.

Why does it blow in?

The "Chimney Effect" theory makes a lot of sense, as everyone knows that hot air rises. However, inward movement continues even when only cold water is used. Therefore, other forces must be involved. The Bernoulli Effect refers to the flow of water downward causing an increase in velocity, which decreases air pressure within the shower. This decrease in air pressure results in an "air pressure differential". One can only assume these "effects" work together, causing lightly weighted curtains to be sucked inward. 

Best option? Get a heavier curtain.

One of the best ways of putting an end to shower curtain cling is to buy a heavy weight curtain that is made to stand up to the effects shown in the picture above. These are quite cheap and highly rated.

Click here to read my blog post on heavy weight curtains (some also include built-in magnets or storage pockets)


If you like the curtain you have, check out my blog post 5 Ways To Stop Your Shower Curtain Blowing In. This is useful for people who would rather not replace their curtain. This post discusses several ideas such as adding extra weight or using devices specifically designed to hold the curtain out while you're showering. I've tracked down all of the most commonly used products and popular methods people use to solve this problem. 


Temporary "quick fix" ideas:

If you're looking for a quick fix, the image below shows a commonly used technique, but it can be a bit of a pain having to do this every morning. 

It's not really a "solution" as wrestling the curtain into position every morning and making the little puddle can be a pain.  

These are the other "DIY" ideas I've come across. They're pretty tragic. 

Another simple idea I should mention is that the air pressure and hot air rising problems can be minimized to a certain extent by raising the curtain upward a little to allow for some air movement underneath. I haven't tried this approach myself but have read that it can help to minimize the problem.

Check out the other posts in this blog for a wide range of much better ideas and solutions. The tips and tricks presented here will give you several options for eliminating this infuriating problem.

 

Tablecloth Weights Are Perfect For Shower Curtains

Commonly used on shower curtains

There appears to be no product specifically designed to weigh down shower curtains. However, if you're looking for something quite heavy to attach to your shower curtain, these stainless steel tablecloth weights will be perfect. They are heavy and don't hang down too far meaning they won't drag along the floor to the extent that other versions do. As they are stainless steel, they provide a pleasant contemporary look. Most importantly, several people have reviewed these as working well on shower curtains.

In case you're wondering, these are a clip on weight. You simply pry the clip open and place the curtain edge inside. This obviously allows you to choose whether you place them on the sides, corners, or bottom of your curtain.
 

The weights pictured here are a four piece set, and will suit people looking to maintain a clean/modern look. Reviews also claim that these can also be used on net curtains and drapes to prevent them blowing around in the wind.

They are available on Amazon


Shell Weights 

These are quite attractive and made of hand painted resin.

Unlike other items used to add weight, these have a water/coastal theme which matches up reasonably well with bathrooms. Their actual weight is not specified, but their description states that they're heavy enough to weigh down tablecloths used outdoors in gusty conditions, so I'm assuming they will be heavy enough.

There are all sorts of different kinds available. Some look a little tacky, but I don't believe these shells would drag down the appearance of your bathroom. In fact, they could even be called a "cute accessory". 

If you do decide to get something which clips onto the bottom of your curtain, remember that it may make a little 'clanking' noise if they're tapping on the sides of tubs. Although I'm assuming you could always clip them up a little higher.

These shell weights are also available on Amazon.

Please see the other posts I've written up in this blog which describe a number of other techniques and products that are available to keep your curtain from molesting you.

Magnets and Weights for Shower Curtains

The magnets shown here will not only add that extra weight your shower curtain needs, but they can obviously also magnetically stick your shower curtain to your bathtub.

Details:
1. Popular method
2. Magnets hold each other in place (place one on either side of the curtain)
3. Also sticks liners to tubs

These are available on Amazon 

These particular magnets have been used in order to stop clinging and billowing, with one reviewer stating 'bought these to weigh down a shower curtain, worked like a charm'. I guess it goes without saying, but if you're having a brain fade moment and you're wondering how these are attached, it's as simple as placing one on each side of the curtain. You also need to space them in such a way that they don't all stick together when you're opening/closing the curtain, so place them at different heights. These magnets are very powerful for their size. They could be positioned on the bottom of your liner or positioned further up depending on what works best for you.

They are also going to be great for those who have metal tubs, as they also magnetically secure the bottom of your curtain to your tub.

Update:

I have recently come across the following newly created solution, which was not available when i originally wrote this.

These are a superior option to magnets, as they can perform both functions of adding weight and also sticking the curtain to the tub. A 3 pack of these weighs 7 ounces, which should be heavy enough to stop billowing. They are available on Amazon

Clip On Shower Curtain Weights  

  

 

Details:

1. Adds 6.4 ounces

2. Pack of 4

3. Marketed as tablecloth weights

Update: currently unavailable

If you'd rather clip on some weights, you could also consider a product like these ceramic weights pictured above. Each of these clip on weights is 1.6 ounces. They're sold in a pack of 4, meaning it'll give your shower curtain an extra 6.4 ounces. Perhaps the heading above this picture is a little misleading because they're actually sold as table cloth weights, but they'll clip onto a shower curtain just fine. They're described as decorative, as they have an aged ceramic blue and white scroll design. If you're checking these out on Amazon, take a look at the items that others bought or viewed, and you'll find a reasonable variety to choose from. Only issue is they may make "clanking" noises on the side of tubs.


Need something heavier?

Recommended Reading - Using tablecloth weights on shower curtains


Gravitational Pull

If you're obese, your enormous mass may be creating a gravitational pull which is sucking in your shower curtain. 

I'm obviously totally kidding. However, perhaps losing a few inches off your waist might make you a little less vulnerable.

There's several theories, with the most accepted being the Bernoulli's principle, which states that air pressure is decreased by an increase in velocity, which occurs due to the flowing of water. Basically, the air movement caused by the flow of the water causes a difference between the air pressure inside and outside. This is actually increased when there is no gap between the floor and the bottom of the liner. Therefore, creating a gap may allow you to minimize the effect.

Other theories focus on the simple fact that heat rises, which results in cooler air being sucked upwards. Whether it's vortexes, air pressure or condensation, it seems likely that there are several factors at play. Or perhaps the problem is that all air feels entitled to the same conditions. The cold air outside the shower feels ostracized, demeaned and shut out, whilst the privileged hot air boastfully puffs itself up in a display of excess and privilege. Your curtain's blowing around and billowing is simply a manifestation of our consumerist capitalist society.

What are your best options? 

The magnets pictured above appear to be quite a popular option, whether for holding it firmly up against your tub, or adding some weight. However, there's actually a variety of products and ideas for stopping shower curtains from blowing inwards. Check out my blog post 5 ways to stop your shower curtain blowing in for a few more ideas.

Shower Curtain Clips and Sealers

I'm going to show you 3 different kinds of shower curtain clips and clamps which allow you to secure your curtain to prevent clinging and splashes. 

Shower Curtain Clips

Details:
1. Pack of 2 clips
2. Pull your curtain tight from each side.
3. Stop splashes from soaking your floors (and your socks)

Click here to view on Amazon

Sold in a pack of 2, these can be used on either one side, or both sides to pull the curtain tight, to minimize flapping and clinging.

These splash clips are put in position with a simple 'peel and stick', with manufacturers stating that the adhesion will last for long term use. Basically, this is not a cheap nasty product that will fall off after a few weeks of use, and will give you years of increased curtain control. 

Clips such as these can also be very useful for stopping water from splashing around the sides onto your bathroom floor. I used to struggle to keep my floors from becoming soaked. I used to get shampoo or conditioner bottles and sit them on top of my curtain every morning to keep it from getting sucked in and to keep my floor from getting soaked. These kinds of minor hassles can be really annoying, and just make life more of a headache than it already is.

Magnetic Curtain Clip

 

Details:

1. Magnetic clip holds the corner of your liner in place

2. Triangular shape stops bath water from splashing onto the floor

3. Self-adhesive base

Click here to view on Amazon

This magnetic clip and splash stopper is designed for showers positioned over tubs. However, there appears no reason why it wouldn't also work when adhered to the floor, and would still be useful for preventing splashes and could help to reduce clinging.

The triangular shower curtain clip is shaped to keep water in, whilst also clipping the curtain in place a magnetic clip on the inner side. This is essentially a "two in one" product, which will help keep your floors dry by keeping your curtain closed and minimize liner movement. 

This could also be helpful for preventing waves of water flowing outward onto your floor when having deep baths. When moving around in a deep bath, it's easy to create little waves which flow over the edge of your tub. This especially the case when you have kids. I remember when I was young I'd intentionally move back and forth to create waves, which would often surge over the edge of the tub. This clip will help block these water surges from splashing all over the floor.

Shower Curtain Sealer

Details:
1. Magnetically Clamps your liner in place
2. Self-adhesive sticks clamp to the wall.
3. A little expensive compared to clips

Click here to view on Amazon

For a more heavy duty approach, you may want to consider this magnetic Curtain Sealer. 

If you'd like to get a little more forceful with your shower curtain, this magnetic clamp will hold it firmly in place, and keep it there. This product uses an adhesive to stick to the wall, and locks in place magnetically. The manufacturers describe this as a heavy duty plastic shower lock, that will hold any curtain in place to prevent slips and falls. Interestingly, one benefit described in this products write-up is the fact that using a product such as this can minimize laundry costs. I hadn't actually considered this benefit but I guess this is quite simple really. Instead of using towels to soak up water off the floor, they can just be used for their actual purpose and hung to dry for next time.

Comparatively Expensive

This heavy duty sealer/clamp is a more expensive option than a pair of clips. I guess when you look at the benefits, such as eliminating 'blow-in', keeping floors (and your socks) dry, minimizing laundry and preventing slips and falls, this product is actually worth the money. However, these same benefits seem to be able to be gained with a pair of clips, which are less expensive.

Thick Heavy Shower Curtains

These heavy/magnetic shower curtains will minimize the 'blow-in effect' in order to stop your shower curtain from clinging to you. You can choose between magnetic hem curtains and heavy curtains made of thick extra heavy vinyl. Extra weight is a very basic and effective solution to the problem.

Magnetic Shower Curtain (built in magnets) 

Details:
1. Heavy duty anti-mildew and anti-bacterial (100% PEVA)
2. Magnetic to stick to your tub
3. Rust-proof metal grommets

Click here to view on Amazon

This appears to be the highest rated magnetic shower curtain available. Not only is it anti-cling with built in magnets, but it is also odor free. It's also thick and heavy, which will help fight back against vortexes and air pressure differentials caused by your shower's downward flow of water. Many people also use one of these as a liner for cloth shower curtains. It is also made of PEVA which is naturally mold resistant and anti-bacterial. 

This appears to be the best reviewed, as cheaper versions seem to have issues with magnets falling out. They're also effective at sticking the curtain to the tub, unlike some others, with complaints from customers that the magnets do not hold. The vinyl is thick, heavy and frosted, so it's not 'see through'.

Extra Heavy Vinyl Curtain

Details:
1. Heavy duty anti-mildew vinyl.
2. Clear panel allows light into shower.
3. Choice of 4 colors.

Click here to view on Amazon

The curtain pictured above is made of thick 10 gauge heavy duty anti-bacterial vinyl, which allows it to be sturdy enough to not get sucked in and cling to you. There are several scientific theories on shower curtain 'blow-in'. One of these theories is the Buoyancy Theory, which states that as the hot air within the shower rises upward, it sucks in air underneath and around the bottom of the curtain, causing it to be sucked in. The extra weight provided by the thick vinyl is intended to stand up to this effect. 

Shower Curtain with Pockets

Details:
1. Pockets help keep your shower clutter free.
2. Lets you easily add weight to keep your curtain in place.
3. 100% PEVA 70x72".

Click here to view on Amazon

Perhaps even more beneficial than its extra weight, is this curtain's ability to keep you floors clutter free. The pockets look cool and are very functional for adding extra weight and extra storage space. The weight of your shampoo and shower products will hold the curtain where it should be. This also allows you to intentionally weigh it down with any random heavier objects. Most people probably have enough hair care products and body washes sitting on the floor of their shower to fill up the pockets and add heaps of extra weight. The floor inside my shower is cluttered with shampoos, conditioners, shaving cream and all sorts of stuff, which makes me extremely tempted to purchase one of these. 


What can you do with your old shower curtain? 

Here are a few ideas that might prevent you from throwing your old curtain in the trash. They're actually quite useful due to the fact that they're waterproof and can be used outdoors to cover things such as barbeques, air conditioners and outdoor furniture. 

I also like some of the other ideas I've found, such as creating a water slide on your lawn, or making it into a sled. However, in my opinion, the most practical and useful ways they can be used is as drop cloths for things like paint or oil. I also love the idea of simply storing one in the boot of my car in case I ever find myself needing to sit on moist ground. Waterproofing a picnic blanket is just genius and I probably would never have actually thought of this myself.

5 Ways To Stop Your Shower Curtain Blowing In

I'm going to show you 5 clever ways to stop your shower curtain from blowing in and sticking to you. It's incredibly annoying when your shower curtain gets sucked in and clings to your legs and arms. Most people don't know how simple it is to put a stop to it.

The Curtain Bouncer

The Curtain Bouncer may seem like a slightly bizarre product, but its design is very logical and it seems as though it would be effective at preventing clinging. This product is made from polypropylene and although it may look slightly flimsy, the manufacturers claim that it should not break under normal conditions. It slides back and forth as you open or close the curtain and is designed to fit most rods/rails. It's currently not available on Amazon, but can be purchased from the curtain bouncer website for $20. It ships from the UK.

Clever Weights

These are quite clever and are designed specifically for shower curtains. They're designed to not only weigh the curtain down, but to also keep it level with the edge of your bath tub. They clip on easily, and are available in different colors and shapes. The are not only functional, but have an appearance that is actually quite elegant and will do nothing to negatively effect the aesthetics of your bathroom. Intelligent design combined with an attractive appearance makes this my favorite anti-cling product currently available.

These are available on Amazon

 

Magnets as Shower Curtain Weights 

 

Details:

1. Powerful magnets
2. Popular method
3. Use them as weights or to hold the curtain to the side of your tub.

Click here to view on Amazon

This is actually a popular way of stopping shower curtains from blowing around. Simply attach magnets, which can act as either curtain weights or can be used to stick the curtain to your tub. This simple yet effective solution will provide the extra weight needed to prevent (or at least minimize) it from flapping around and sticking to you. Unlike regular curtain weights, these require no adhesives, and no stitching. They're a good alternative to suction cups, which are often poorly attached and fall off. They're easily secured in position by placing one on each side, as obviously their magnetic force allows them to hold each in position. If using them to add weight, space them out at different levels to prevent sticking to each other. If you're looking for weights and need a heavier option, read my blog post on heavy stainless steel weights 
 

Curved Shower Curtain Rod 

Details:

1. Adjustable (no need to cut to fit)

2. Fits standard size bathtub enclosures

3. Affordable and easy to install

Click here to view on Amazon

These curved rods are adjustable, so you don't have to stress about ensuring you get the exact right size and you won't be required to cut the rod. They are designed to fit standard sized bathtub enclosures (56-72"). 

Reviews show that they are easy to install and definitely create a little extra space to help keep your shower curtain from clinging to you. Showering in a tub can be a confining experience, even without the issue of clingy liners. The is a great way of increasing your shower space and a little extra elbow room is a pretty basic solution to the problem and your shower curtain should no longer be sucked in to the extent that it touches you

Shower Curtain Clips

Details:

1. Pack of 2 or 4

2. Holds curtain tightly against the wall

3. Prevents shower splashes soaking your floor

Click here to view on Amazon

These clever little shower curtain clips hold the curtain out and away. All you need do is stick them on, as they have a strong adhesive which the manufacturer claims will last years. Whilst using one or two on one side of your shower enclosure may help a little, I'd imagine that you would require a clip on both sides, to pull the curtain tight so it can move inward.

These will also stop leaks and splashes escaping around the side of your curtain. Oxo Good Grips have a reputation for producing these kinds of clever products, with a focus on home and kitchen items. Buyers seem to agree that these clips are unobtrusive and are reasonably aesthetic once put in place.

Try hanging something from your curtain rod

How about a D.I.Y solution?


These obviously look pretty awful, but you could something other than fishing weights. I'm not really recommending this, but thought I should mention the idea for people who looking for a quick fix.

If your upper body is being attacked, perhaps hanging something from the rod will keep it back. Although, depending on what you choose, it may simply infringe on your elbow room.

An item such as an organizer may be able to minimize your curtains ability to attack your upper body whilst also creating extra storage space. This probably won't be effective at keeping your curtain off of your legs, but at least it will put all of your hair care products and body washes within easy reach!

Will it hang low enough?

It would seem to have potential to create somewhat of a barricade to block out your shower curtain and minimize its ability to stick to you. It would be more effective if you could somehow lower the organizer a little to prevent the curtain for clinging to your lower body. Obviously, the intention of this product isn't to function as the 'Curtain Bouncer' does. However, it would appear that it would very possible for it to be used to restrict your curtain's ability to suck in and stick to you.

Not only will this stop your shower curtain from attacking your upper body, but the pockets it provides will be extremely handy for minimizing clutter, which tends to accumulate on your shower floor over time. I have about 10 different shampoo and conditioner bottles, along with shaving cream, and a bunch of other random stuff on my shower floor. An organizer such as this can perform two functions, protecting you from your curtain, and keeping things up off the floor, within easy reach.

How much are you willing to spend?

These glass doors with hinges are the premium solution.

The frosted tub door shown here is hinged and made from 6mm thick tempered glass. These are also available with clear glass. However, I prefer the frosted glass just in case someone has a brain lapse and walks in while I'm showering.

Considering the options listed above, this is obviously comparatively expensive. However, considering the fact that you shower every day (hopefully) and you may be fed up with curtains clinging and getting moldy, this may be worth considering.

This is a significant upgrade for your bathroom, and obviously requires installation which may be daunting to some. However, after reading review comments and looking through the instructions for installation, it appears relatively straight forward.

There are cheaper versions without the hinged door. However, I've found that screens without the hinged door are generally not wide enough to keep water from splashing out onto the floor

The option pictured above costs around $400.



Avoid cheap lightweight curtains!!!

One of the most important things to remember is that cheap shower curtains should be avoided. Usually the quality of a shower curtain is directly proportional to it how clingy it will be. I recommend you read my blog post on heavy weight curtains. It lists a few different options, including liners with inbuilt magnets and pockets.

 
Why does the curtain move inward?

Finally, If you're looking for an answer as to why your shower curtain is sucked inwards and upwards, rather than downwards and outwards as would seem logical, there's a number of theories which discuss the cause of the shower curtain suck-in phenomenon. Some are quite complex, discussing vortexes and air pressure, computational fluid dynamics. However, one simple theory simply states that the flow of hot air upwards is responsible for sucking cool air from underneath, which creates the 'suck-in' effect. Bathrooms with fans which switch on automatically when the lights are turned on are notorious for exacerbating this effect.

My housemate and I actually removed the curtain because we got so sick of this happening. This then obviously created the problem of water splashing all over the floor. It also just felt totally wrong, like I was exposed and any moment someone could walk in and see me showering. I got really tired of out bathroom floor being covered in water, and started looking for solutions.

I hope my blog is helpful and puts an end to your shower curtain troubles.