EVA Shower Curtain for an Eco Friendly Bathroom
Have you experienced "new shower curtain smell"? That plasticky, overpowering odor that nearly gives you a headache? That's the smell of polyvinyl chloride (aka PVC) releasing toxic gases into the air -- and getting all up in your bathroom.
A few years ago, I got fed up with the fumes and looked for an alternative. The more I thought about it, the crazier it seemed that I was basically taking a steam bath in chemicals. I could barely stand the smell long enough to take a shower. Then I found odorless EVA shower curtains [Amazon], and I've been buying them ever since.
So, what is an EVA shower curtain? First, I'll explain what they are (and what health risks they present). Then I'll show you some really cute designs along with other ways to make your bathroom a healthier place.
EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) is a nontoxic alternative to PVC. EVA shower curtains are growing in popularity as consumers discover the many dangers of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) shower curtains.
The vinyl in PVC shower curtains contain phthalates, which are plastic softeners. The phthalate DEHP has been linked to hormonal and reproductive problems. The EPA has labeled it a "probable human carcinogen." Phthalates have been banned in children's products in the U.S. since early 2009.
PVC shower curtains also release VOC's (volatile organic compounds), including ethylbenzene and other nasties linked to liver damage and respiratory problems. According to a 2002 EPA study, PVC shower curtains "could result in elevated indoor air toxics concentrations for more than a month," (which is about how long that vinyl smell lasts in your bathroom).
To make matters worse, we use these toxic products in the most confined area of our homes, and THEN we take a steam bath or sauna in it everyday -- which is pretty scary when you think about it.
PVC also has a negative environmental impact. Because it contains chloride (the "C" in PVC), both the manufacturing and the disposal of PVC products create the byproduct dioxin, a carcinogenic chemical that ends up in the environment, and moves up the food chain to us.
The good news is that manufacturers and retailers are starting to phase out PVC shower curtains. Today, there are many non-PVC safe shower curtains on the market made of PEVA and EVA. EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) is phthalate free and nontoxic, making it a healthy choice for green shower curtains and other consumer products.
Could PVC Shower Curtains Make Me Fat?
Dr. Oz says, "Maybe." Vinyl shower curtains with phthalates affect our glands and slow down our metabolism, which can contribute to weight gain. Phthalates belong to a group of chemicals called obsegens, which disrupt our hormone systems and have adverse effects on our bodies. And researchers believe they misprogram our stem cells to become fat cells. Yikes!
* See what Dr. Oz (from his pre-political days) says about shower curtains and other sources of obsegens.
What Is the Difference Between PEVA and EVA?
PEVA is PVC-free, odorless, chlorine-free and biodegradable, making it a healthier, greener alternative to traditional vinyl shower curtains. It's similar to EVA. The only difference is that it's a copolymer:
- Polyethylene vinyl acetate = PEVA
- Ethylene vinyl acetate = EVA
"Eco friendly" doesn't have to mean "boring." Here's a roundup of a few cute, decorative EVA and PEVA shower curtains:
Here are some cute patterns from InterDesign that are all made of EVA instead of PVC. You're sure to find something that fits your theme (or even the kids' bathrooms).
iDesign PEVA Shower Curtain 
These InterDesign curtains are available in many different designs. Find one to match the style and decor of your bathroom. There are designs that would be great for kids' bathrooms.
This next eco shower curtain makes a great gift for Science geeks, or a funny conversation piece. Fans of a certain geeky TV show will no doubt recognize it.
EVA Periodic Table Shower Curtain Is this a Science study aid, or a work of Art? You decide. This Periodic Table shower curtain is the same one seen in Leonard and Sheldon's bathroom on The Big Bang Theory.
Cobblestone EVA Liner for Tubs Curtain Just need a decorative liner to go around a tub? Here's a 65-inch EVA curtain (or liner) with an aesthetic cobblestone design.
What About Fabric Shower Curtains?
Eco-friendly fabric is another non-toxic shower curtain alternative. Let's take a look at some of those:
Fabric Shower Curtain Natural materials such as organic cotton, linen, and hemp are also healthy alternatives to PVC shower curtains. This whimsical shower curtain is 100% cotton, so there's no plastic or vinyl of any kind.
Spot a mermaid, a Kraken, and a whale among the swirling waves. If this color scheme doesn't work for you, click the link above anyway to see six other designes.
Here are some other eco-friendly fabrics to consider, including 100% cotton and hemp:
100% Cotton Shower Curtain
Disposing of Your Old PVC Shower Curtains
Now, what to do about those old PVC shower curtains that you're replacing? I wish I could tell you that there was a safe way to dispose of PVC shower curtains, but there isn't. PVC emits chlorine, additives and toxic gases, whether you burn it or bury it (in a landfill). I never knew this until recently, and I'm ashamed to admit that several of my disposed-of PVC shower curtains are now leaching chemicals into a landfill somewhere. Live and learn!
Some people suggest repurposing PVC shower curtains as tarps or waterproof coverings, but now that I know about the VOC's they give off, I wouldn't want the material anywhere in my home. sfgate.com has a search function where you can locate recyclers of PVC in your area, which I think is your best bet.
No VOC Shower Curtain Liners
Now that you've got your healthy shower curtain picked out, you need a non-toxic shower curtain liner to go with it:
EVA Shower Liner You should make sure that your shower liner is PVC free as well. Outfit your bathroom with a chlorine free / VOC free, non vinyl shower curtain liner to go with your new curtain.
Odor Free Bath Mats
Next, let's take a look at that bath mat of yours. You know the one I mean. Those bath mats give off toxic fumes too. Remember the strong smell when you first opened the package?
Odor Free Bathtub Mat Get yourself a PVC free bath mat. You've gone this far. Might as well get yourself an odorless bath mat too.
And get more tips for an eco friendly bathroom.