Try This Chic Shower Curtain Hack For An Instantly Elevated Look

Shower curtains are often overlooked, but it's important to appreciate how they can completely transform a bathroom. While treated as more of a functional thing than a decor piece, shower curtains can do wonders to bring color and pattern into an otherwise simple and basic space. If you're looking to use them to their full potential, you've probably already considered funky patterns, bright colors, and different shower curtain materials to try. But have you ever thought of using two regular curtain panels instead of a basic shower curtain?

When you're using a standard single shower curtain, it's easy to create a drab or unbalanced look. When the curtain is open, it awkwardly sits on one side of the bathtub. Another option is to leave the shower curtain closed at all times. However, while this has aesthetic benefits, it tends to limit airflow and keep the bathroom moist, especially after a shower. In addition, some people just feel uncomfortable being in a bathroom with a closed curtain. Finally, shower curtains don't typically look luxurious. They often have a plasticy look, and it can be hard to find unique colors and patterns to elevate your space.

An alternative to create a luxurious look in the bathroom is to use two window curtain panels instead of a shower curtain. Think about it: This visual element of balance is why we often use two curtains, one on each side, for windows. By using two window curtains, you're bringing that elevated and high-end look into the bathroom, whether they are open or closed. If you're worried about the mess that a bathroom can create, use curtain panels that are made of washable fabric. That way, you can easily clean them if soap, makeup, and other bathroom products get onto them.

To do this, you'll need two identical curtains and a way to attach them to the curtain rod. Look for curtain panels made from quick-drying fabrics that won't retain moisture, like polyester or cotton. The easiest way is to use curtains with grommets, which you can slide directly onto the rod. Curtain clips and pleat hooks can also work, but it's best to attach them to shower curtain hooks or rings so that they can open and close easily (you can repurpose old shower curtain rings for this). It's best to avoid curtains with rod pockets because moisture will make them harder to open and close, and they won't allow space for a liner.

Of course, regular curtain panels aren't waterproof. But don't worry, all you need are two shower curtain liners to attach to the inside of the panel. Leave the curtain panels hanging outside of the bathtub edge, and the waterproof liners inside of it. When picking out a shower curtain liner, consider how the attachments at the top will fit with your curtains. Some liners have grommets, which you can line up with a grommet curtain panel (place one on top of the other and attach both layers as if they were one). If using the other methods, attach each curtain hook to an opening of the liner along with a clip or pleat hook.

And if you're worried about water leaking in the center, where the curtains meet, consider making some DIY upgrades to the liners. For example, use some hot glue to attach small magnets to the central edges of the liners. These can help keep the liners closed while you shower so that you don't have to worry about water getting out.