When you decorate your bathroom, you'll want to give some thought to choosing your shower curtain.

There are many styles and types available when shopping. You can purchase plastic, vinyl, or cloth shower curtains. You also have a choice of hookless, designer looks, and even children's curtains.

In addition to water protection, curtains give the bather privacy and enhance the decor of the bathroom. If design and appeal are important, two curtains are recommended: a plastic or vinyl inner curtain for protection and a cloth/fabric one for punch! If you are looking for design as well as water protection, you will want to use two curtains: a plastic or vinyl one on the inside to protect from water splashes and a cloth curtain on the outside used for decoration. There are different sizes available.

It's important to choose the right size. Most shower curtains are 72 by 72 inches. Use a wider curtain if you have a larger shower. If you have a child's shower, you will want to use extra long curtains to avoid spills.

To avoid leakage, the curtain has to be installed properly. Make sure you have hooks, loops and any fixtures you need. If you are hanging it yourself, be careful not to tear the material because the curtain will fall off the hooks eventually. Use a step stool or other solid object when you hang your curtains.

Clean your curtains with disinfectant cleaner. Every day, the curtains and the shower should be allowed to dry. Wash the cloth curtain regularly to keep it clean. Replace it every one to three years.

You may begin shopping for your curtain now that you know the basics of shower curtain selection and care.