Did you know that you can find more than a few types of shower curtain hooks? If you’re using any type of shower curtain (except hookless ones), you’ll need a durable and mold-resistant hook.
There are several types of shower curtain hooks available on the market. The most noticeable difference between the different hooks is the shape with the most common being the C or S shape. Other types of hooks are differentiated by the way they attach (clip hooks) or designs such as “Rollerball” hooks that make it easier for them to slide along the shower curtain rod.
Beyond those simple differences, there are newer types of dual hooks that allow you to hang both the shower curtain and liner on the same hook.
Let’s take a look at the different types of shower curtain hooks available today.
Types of Shower Curtain Hooks
C-Shaped Shower Curtain Hook
As the name implies, this curtain hook is shaped like the letter C. This is probably the oldest hook design, and one of the most commonly used in homes. Set up is pretty easy. You literally just have to insert the lower part of the hook through the curtain holes and then hang them on the rods. You can get different materials and colors for this type of hook. Most of them are made of rubber or plastic, but more material options are available as well.
One downside of this hook is the tendency to create some friction when gliding the curtain – a very minor issue.
S-Shaped Shower Curtain Hooks
Shaped like the letter S, these hooks are often very durable. Unlike C-shaped hooks, these are typically made using high-quality materials that really last a long time. The top part of the hook hangs with the rod and is a bit bigger than the bottom part, which is where the curtain is hooked. Installation is pretty easy and straightforward.
Just insert the curtain through the bottom part of the S, and the upper part hooks onto the shower curtain rod. Depending on the material used, this can be prone to corrosion.
Circular Shower Curtain Hooks
As the name suggests these hooks go full circle, rather than hanging loosely on the curtain rod, they have clasps that open and close. These hooks are often made of affordable plastic, but we recommend getting more durable materials such as stainless steel. To use these hooks you’ll need to insert the curtain holes into the circular ring, and then hang it over the curtain rod. Clasp again to close.
They are less practical than the other types described on this list because you have to secure them and also open them again when you want to wash or replace either the shower curtain or liner. Most of the other types described on this list make it much easier to install or remove the curtain.
The main benefit to these is that they secure the curtain and it’s unlikely that they will slip off (like a clip-on) making them a good choice for high-traffic showers such as bathrooms in gyms or college dorms.
Dual Shower Curtain Hooks
Dual shower curtain hooks serve a very practical purpose, they allow you to hang both the main shower curtain and a shower curtain liner at the same time. This is not only convenient but practical since before the introduction of these hooks, you needed to either use two sets of shower curtain hooks or try to attach both liner and curtain to the same hook. The problem in doing so is that there would be no separation between the curtain and liner and they would stick to each other.
This type of hook is often shaped like a question mark that splits into two hooks at the bottom for both the curtain and the liner. Having the hooks going in separate directions creates some separation – this allows the curtain and liner to hang parallel to each other and allows some space between them so that they can dry out which is key to preventing mold and mildew.
These hooks sometimes come with roller balls on the upper part. Those with no roller balls are more prone to corrosion and damage (more on this below).
Rollerballs
Finally, we have rollerballs. These are probably a huge step forward when it comes to shower curtain hook design. Many consider them as the biggest innovation in the product. These are small, smooth balls added to the area of the hook where you hang it on the rod. The main purpose of these balls is to reduce the friction that happens when gliding the curtain. As a result, you get light and seamless gliding, protecting the shower curtain and rod in the process.
This also prevents 99% of corrosion from happening. The good thing is that they are universally compatible with your shower curtain hooks. No matter the shape of the hook, these rollerballs will adapt and do their job.
Shower Curtain Hooks
These metal clips are similar to a stronger pressure clip that you open by squeezing both metal levels. The shower curtain material is pinched between the metal teeth of the clip. They hang nicely and can easily be adjusted but the main downside is that they can easily come undone when pulling on the curtain, especially the first few on either end.
Types of Shower Curtain Hook Material
You can also base your shopping decisions on the type of material used, instead of form.
Ceramic
Ceramic hooks are cheaper and commonly available. You can find hooks with decorations and detailing, as well as various colors. This makes finding one that matches your current decor easy.
Wood
If you want a more vintage or rustic feel, wooden hooks are a good option. You can use these if you have a country or farmhouse motif going on. They’ll fit right in when used in cabins and other spa-like settings. They can really accentuate the design of your bathroom if used right. Note that they might look out of place if you choose to use them in a contemporary bathroom.
Since wood has organic properties, you would do well to ensure proper and adequate ventilation in your bathroom to avoid getting mold or mildew problems on the hooks. Excessive moisture and humidity can also cause some damage to the material. While most wooden products are “treated” with chemicals to deal with this problem, it is still a risk that you need to be aware of.
Metal
Metal hooks are also quite common. You can get simple and plain ones that are steel or silver in color. If you want more, you can find hooks with embellishments in them. These will go flawlessly with either modern or classic bathrooms. A good thing about metal is that it is coated to withstand moisture, and is rust-proof.
Acrylic
If you want a “glass look” without using actual glass (which is impractical in this case), you can go with acrylic. You can find different colors, styles, and shapes available, giving you space to be creative and match your decor as you please.
Resin
Resin is becoming more and more trendy these days because of the unique look that goes with its extreme durability. You can literally enjoy years and years of regular use without damaging it. Plus, there are so many colors and designs to choose from!
Plastic
Probably the most abundant type is plastic. It’s also the most basic one. If you don’t need or want much fuss in terms of embellishments, and if you don’t want to worry about corrosion or rust, plastic is a no-brainer. They’re quite sturdy for their price, which is on the lower end. They’re also pretty easy to use.