Bathrooms with Shower Curtains vs. Glass Doors: Which One Fits Your Space?

When you’re thinking about freshening up your bathroom, one of the first choices you’ll run into is this: shower curtain or glass door? It sounds like a small detail, but it actually changes how your whole bathroom feels and works.

A lot of people still stick with bathrooms with shower curtains, while others swear by bathrooms with glass shower doors. Both options have their pros and cons, and which one is right really comes down to your space, your style, and how much time you want to spend cleaning.

Why Bathrooms with Shower Curtains Still Work

Some folks think shower curtains are a little old-school, but honestly, they’re still super practical.

• Easy to change up – Tired of your bathroom look? Swap out the curtain and boom—instant refresh.

• Budget-friendly – No need to spend thousands. A good curtain looks great without breaking the bank.

• Endless choices – From simple solid colors to bold prints, there’s something for every vibe.

I’ve seen plenty of modern bathrooms with shower curtains that look just as stylish as glass. A curtain doesn’t have to be boring—it can actually pull the whole room together.

Glass Doors: The Sleek Alternative

Now, if you like that hotel or spa feel, bathrooms with glass shower doors definitely deliver. They make the space feel open and polished. Plus, they let more light in, which can help a small bathroom feel bigger.

But, here’s the catch: glass is more expensive and needs a lot more upkeep. Water spots and streaks show up quickly, especially if you’ve got hard water. And if you’ve ever scrubbed glass doors weekly, you know it’s not exactly fun.

So yes, they look great—but they can be a bit high-maintenance.

Shower Curtain Ideas for Small Bathrooms

If you’re working with a smaller bathroom, curtains are usually the smarter move. They’re lighter, they don’t eat up space, and you can push them aside when you need more elbow room.

Here are a few shower curtain ideas for small bathrooms:

• Stick to light colors—white or soft neutrals help make the room feel bigger.

• Try vertical stripes—they trick the eye into thinking the ceiling’s higher.

• Go with a sheer or semi-clear curtain—it keeps things bright and airy.

• Hang the curtain higher than the rod for that tall, stretched look.

Little details like this can make a tight bathroom feel way less cramped.

Style: Fun vs. Minimal

This is where it really comes down to personality.

• Shower curtains are all about flexibility. You can go bold with patterns, swap with the seasons, or stick with a clean linen look. That’s why you’ll see so many modern bathrooms with shower curtains in magazines or Pinterest boards—they add personality.

• Glass doors lean more toward minimal and timeless. Clean, simple, and consistent—but not something you change up easily.

If you’re someone who gets bored with one style fast, a curtain is the safer (and cheaper) way to keep things fresh.

Practical Stuff Nobody Tells You

Let’s be real—design is fun, but daily life matters too.

• Cleaning: Curtains can go in the washing machine. Glass needs scrubbing and polishing.

• Privacy: Curtains offer more coverage, which is handy in shared bathrooms.

• Space: Glass doors swing or slide, and sometimes that just doesn’t work in tight layouts. Curtains don’t take up extra room.

• Durability: Glass will last longer, but a good fabric curtain can still give you a couple of years of use if you take care of it.

Mixing Things Up

Here’s a fun idea: you don’t always have to go all-in with one option. I’ve seen bathrooms with a half-glass partition and then a curtain on top. That way, you get the modern look but still the flexibility of fabric. Or, some folks add a fabric layer for style and a liner for function. It’s all about finding what works for your space.

Final Thoughts

So, what’s the better pick—bathrooms with shower curtains or bathrooms with glass shower doors? Honestly, there isn’t a single right answer.

• Go for a shower curtain if you want something affordable, easy to change, and more forgiving in small spaces.

• Choose glass doors if you’re after that sleek, high-end vibe and don’t mind putting in extra cleaning effort.

Personally, I think curtains get a bad rap. With so many options out there—waterproof fabric, chic designs, even eco-friendly versions—it’s easy to see why modern bathrooms with shower curtains are making a comeback.

At the end of the day, your bathroom should feel comfortable and suit your lifestyle. And sometimes, all it takes is the right shower curtain to pull it all together.