Try This Shower Curtain Alternative For An Aesthetic DIY That's So Easy To Clean

Shower curtains serve a practical purpose in the bathroom, containing moisture to the shower area and preventing water from flooding the rest of the space. However, they're not the most appealing thing to see in the bathroom. Further, some homeowners may find shower curtains to appear cheap, often ruining a luxe design. This is why many folks are choosing to ditch their gross shower curtains and try alternatives instead. While glass shower panels are often a go-to alternative, they can be expensive to install and may not be ideal for every living situation. Enter the foldable shower screen. Made of durable yet flexible polycarbonate sheets, you can DIY your own shower screen that is lightweight, water-resistant, and downright gorgeous. Additionally, foldable shower doors are the perfect way to save space in a small bathroom.

To DIY your own shower screen, you'll need polycarbonate sheets, glass film, PVC strips, hinges, and a few tools to complete the job. Polycarbonate sheets are more hygienic than traditional shower curtains and can be easier to clean. Additionally, you can choose from highly transparent to opaque options to achieve the look you want. While you could substitute polycarbonate sheets with acrylic — otherwise known by the trade name, Plexiglass — polycarbonate tends to be more durable and flexible. Another consideration is that polycarbonate can be more expensive than a shower curtain or plexiglass. However, it is more affordable than a glass shower door installation.

To start, measure your space to determine the dimension and number of panels needed to pull off this project. Once done, purchase polycarbonate sheets to act as your water barrier. Polycarbonate sheets are well-suited for showers thanks to their moisture resistance. Further, they're often sold in larger sheets, meaning you can source an adequate size for your space. To create the foldable shower screen effect, you'll want to use at least two to three panels. The downside to polycarbonate sheets is that they are prone to scratching. To combat this, purchase a glass film that can add visual appeal and protect the sheeting. This is also a practical way to make your shower doors less revealing. Just be sure to select one that is easy to install and waterproof.

Once you've adhered the glass film to the polycarbonate sheets, drill holes into the material and screw on hinges. Depending on how you wish to fold the shower screen, you may need to play around with the hinge positioning. For added protection along the seams and edges, use black PVC strips. You may need to use a strong waterproof adhesive to hold them in place. You could also use the PVC strips for added aesthetics by bending them into the shapes you desire and adhering them to the outside of the shower screen. When it's time to clean the screen, mild soap, a soft cloth, and lukewarm water should do the trick.