Trade In Your Bathtub Curtain: The Gorgeous Alternative That Adds Privacy And Style

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Shower curtains are generally the go-to when it comes to maintaining privacy and preventing spray in your bathroom, but they come with their fair share of problems. Many curtains don't fully seal off the space, leading to leaks, splashes, and a dangerously slippery floor. They're also prone to mold and mildew, because the steam and runoff of daily showers keep them perpetually damp. A sliding bathtub shower door can make a stylish alternative that will give you both privacy and splash control, not to mention the sleek look of a modern walk-in shower without having to rip out your entire bathroom. Indeed, this is a budget bathroom remodel idea that only looks expensive.

These gorgeous alternatives to traditional shower curtains don't work on every bath. If you have a freestanding tub or one only affixed to the wall on one side, this look won't work for you. If, on the other hand, your tub has straight edges and is set between walls at both ends, then these sliding doors are definitely worth a look. Bathtub doors are available from a variety of retailers, including Home Depot, Lowe's, and Amazon, and come in a broad range of price points and styles.

Sliding bathtub doors will work in smaller bathrooms because they glide along a track rather than swinging outward. It's worth noting, however, that these tracks catch soap residue and standing water, so remember to give them a regular scrubbing to prevent a buildup of gunk that might inhibit their glide. Semi-frameless styles tend to be both more budget- and DIY-friendly, while frameless doors, which are built from much thicker glass and through-the-glass hardware, are usually more expensive and better handed off to a professional for the installation.

If you opt to install yourself, the first thing you must do is measure the opening with care, checking how wide it is near the top and again near the base, and how tall it is along each side wall. Next, find a door rated for the wider of your two width measurements and no taller than your shortest height measurement. It's a good idea to choose a model with some built-in adjustment, in case your walls are slightly out of plumb. 

Before installing the doors, check the manufacturer's instructions, as different models may require different processes. Unless the instructions say otherwise, you can start by locating a stud behind the drywall where you can mount the track. Next, drill your holes, set the track and fixed panel, place the bottom guide on the tub, and hang the sliding panel from its top rollers. Then add the bottom rollers and finally the handle. Finish by caulking around the edges with clear silicone, then hold off on showering for a full day while it cures. That said, if this process seems daunting, it may be worthwhile to hire a professional, and both Lowe's and Home Depot offer installation services.