EnviroCurtain Recycled Polyester Full Size Shower Curtain Review

I purchased the EnviroCurtain Recycled Polyester Full Size Shower Curtain a few months ago, after researching non-plastic, non-vinyl, non-toxic shower curtains. I had it narrowed down to 3 shower curtains (all from different companies), and finally decided on this one because I liked the idea of it being recycled as well as anti-microbial, therefore slowing mold and mildew growth.

The first thing I noticed when I opened the EnviroCurtain Recycled Polyester Full Size Shower Curtain package was the overwhelming smell. It was awful! I opened the curtain and draped it over the rail on the deck for three days, yet it still had a terrible stink to it. I finally hung it up anyway, but had much trouble doing so: The button tabs were so stiff and tight that it was very, very difficult to push the buttons through. And the material was too stiff to lie flat, so it made me feel a bit more crowded in the shower (I chose to use this as a liner).

The biggest frustration came when I noticed the mildew beginning to form on it within just a few days. I took it down to wash it - a major ordeal to unbutton the stiff tabs, and then again to hang it back up afterward. I soaked the mildewed areas overnight in a non-toxic bleach product, then washed the whole thing, but the stains were already permanently set.

This EnviroCurtain Recycled Polyester Full Size Shower Curtain cost me $83, and I got less than a year's use from it. The information regarding this product says "No toxic odors or vinyl smell like traditional shower liners." and "Heavyweight, durable construction will last for years with proper care." Perhaps the odors were technically non-toxic, but they were certainly enough to make one nauseous. And yes, it is heavyweight and seems to be durable, but what good is that when the mildew grows so fast and so thick that the only option is to throw it away after just a few months?

I cannot recommend this product. I'm very angry over the money I wasted on this EnviroCurtain Recycled Polyester Full Size Shower Curtain. They only allowed a 30-day money-back guarantee, and I wish now I had sent it back at the first sign of mildew. Plain vinyl curtains will last much longer before mildew/mold growth, and they are much easier to clean - and require considerably less effort. So I now have a vinyl liner again and will not take any chances on another waste of my time and money.