Glass Shower Doors vs Shower Curtains: Pros and Cons

May 25, 2023

Could your shower use a refresh? Whether you want to replace the whole thing or just add some updated touches, you’ll have an important decision to make: glass shower door vs. shower curtain. It’s more than just a matter of style — whatever you choose can affect your daily routine, maintenance efforts, and overall satisfaction with your shower remodel.  

Whether you’re aiming for a spa-like retreat or a budget-friendly refresh, understanding the key differences between these two options is key to achieving the bathroom of your dreams. 

Glass Shower Doors

Glass shower doors are most common in walk-in showers, offering a seamless entrance into your shower. They offer a sleek, modern design that makes the bathroom feel larger and brighter, which can really open up a small space and elevate the look of your bathroom. They’re also durable and easy to maintain. But they might not work for every bathroom. Here are the pros and cons to installing a glass shower door.  

Pros of a Shower Door

Glass shower doors are a great fit for many types of remodeling projects. Many people simply like the look of them, but they have other benefits, too: 

  • Aesthetics: Glass doors’ clean, minimalist design adds modern elegance to your space. They can also create an open and airy feel, making smaller bathrooms appear more spacious and luxurious.  
  • Visibility: Clear glass doors provide an unobstructed view of the shower area, which can be visually appealing — and functional, if you want to see into the bathroom. 
  • Durability: Glass shower doors are an investment. They’re built to last, resisting wear and tear better than shower curtains.  
  • Value addition: Installing glass shower doors can increase your home’s value by making your bathroom look more upscale and modern. 
  • Easy maintenance: Easy to clean and maintain, glass shower doors come with fewer risks of mold or mildew buildup compared to shower curtains. They often require just a simple wipe to remove water spots and soap scum. 
  • Water containment: Glass doors provide a better seal than curtains, reducing water leakage and helping to keep your bathroom floors dry. 

Cons of a Shower Door

Glass shower doors are a popular choice, but they don’t work for everyone. Here are some disadvantages if you’re considering glass shower doors vs. curtains. 

  • Installation cost: The initial installation cost of glass shower doors can be higher compared to shower curtains. While glass doors do last longer than curtains, the higher cost might not be possible for some homeowners. 
  • Limited privacy: Bathrooms with clear glass doors may not provide enough privacy for some households. Think about your living situation and how much privacy you need. 
  • Breakage: While it’s rare for glass shower doors to break, it can happen. Proper installation can help prevent this, but curtains may still be a better option for homes with children or elderly residents.  
  • Hard water stains: Glass shower doors do still require some maintenance. Without regular cleaning, they can develop hard water stains that are difficult to remove. 
  • Limited design options: The design options for glass doors might be more limited compared to shower curtains, which can limit customization options for the bathroom. 

Shower Curtains

Convinced about the benefits of glass doors? The debate between glass shower door vs. shower curtain is far from over. Shower curtains are a simple, versatile, and affordable option for your bathroom remodel. A shower curtain rod is easy to install and gives you the option to pick out a design that matches your bathroom’s style. Just like a glass shower door, a shower curtain might work great for some homes and not so much for others. 

Pros of a Shower Curtain 

For those seeking a flexible and budget-friendly option, shower curtains are an excellent choice. They’re also great for renters because they’re not permanent. Here are a few reasons you might prefer shower curtains vs. glass doors. 

  • Affordability: Shower curtains are more affordable compared to shower glass doors, making it easy for anyone to refresh their bathroom without breaking the bank. 
  • Easy installation: Shower curtains are easy to install and replace without the need for professional assistance. Plus, with a tension shower curtain rod, you don’t need to make any permanent alterations to your walls. 
  • Design versatility: Shower curtains come in a wide range of design options. From vibrant patterns to classic solids, you can find a curtain that complements your style perfectly. 
  • Privacy: Opaque or patterned shower curtains can provide increased privacy in the bathroom. This added privacy is especially useful in shared or busy households. 
  • Easy replacement: Shower curtains can be easily replaced or updated to refresh the bathroom’s look. This flexibility lets you keep your bathroom’s appearance fresh and up to date with minimal effort. 

Cons of a Shower Curtain

While they’re convenient, shower curtains don’t provide the same sleek, modern look as glass doors. They can also be harder to clean and need to be changed out often. Consider the following challenges as you think about whether to get a glass door or shower curtain.   

  • Maintenance: Shower curtains are harder to clean and can be susceptible to mold or mildew buildup, especially if your bathroom is poorly ventilated. You might have to frequently wash or replace the curtain. 
  • Water leakage: Shower curtains don’t provide a tight seal like glass doors, potentially causing a wet bathroom floor. If the curtain isn’t properly positioned or doesn’t fully cover the doorway, water spills can damage flooring or create slipping hazards. 
  • Limited lifespan: Shower curtains have a shorter lifespan compared to shower glass doors. The fabric or vinyl can tear, fade, or degrade over time, meaning you might have to buy new curtains to keep your bathroom looking fresh. 
  • Visual obstruction: Shower curtains can obstruct light and make the bathroom feel cramped and less inviting, which may not be ideal for small bathrooms or those without windows. 

How to Choose: Shower Curtain vs Glass Doors

Remodeling your bathroom involves many decisions and choosing between a shower curtain or a glass door is an important one. Let’s weigh the factors that can help you make the best choice for your bathroom. 

Budget

Shower curtains are a more budget-friendly option. You can find a wide variety of styles and materials at low prices, and they’re easy and cheap to replace. The materials and installation of glass doors are more expensive, but they can add value to your home. If you’re already planning a complete remodel or want to invest in long-lasting features, glass doors might be worth it. 

Bathroom Size and Shape

In smaller bathrooms, glass doors can make the space feel more open and less cramped because they don’t visually divide the room. Unlike some glass doors, shower curtains don’t require any clearance to open. Curtains are also easier to customize to fit oddly shaped or small shower areas. 

Design Preferences

Glass shower doors offer a sleek, modern look that can make your bathroom feel more upscale. They come in various styles, including frameless and semi-frameless options, but shower curtains provide more flexibility in terms of design. They come in endless patterns, colors, and textures, allowing you to easily change the look of your bathroom.  

Ready TO REMODEL YOUR SHOWER?

Choosing between glass shower doors vs. shower curtains ultimately comes down to individual preferences, budget, maintenance requirements, and bathroom design. Both options have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, and it’s important to weigh the factors to make an informed decision. Whether you choose shower doors for a sleek and modern look or shower curtains for affordability and design versatility, the key is to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing bathroom shower that meets your needs and preferences. 

West Shore Home offers a variety of services to fit any shower remodeling project, including both curtain rod and glass door options. From shower replacement to tub-to-shower conversions, when you remodel with us, you can choose from many shower types, tile patterns, colors, and amenities. Plus, we’ll get your shower done in just one day. Contact us today to learn more about your options with your remodel project.