Shower curtain selection for aged care

[Diane Piper]

We are currently developing a new aged care facility and undertaking refurbishment works across several existing homes. As part of this process, we are reviewing bathroom fixtures and fittings, including shower curtains.

From an infection prevention and control perspective, I am seeking advice and recommendations regarding suitable shower curtain options for aged care environments. We are particularly interested in products that support effective cleaning and maintenance, minimise infection transmission risks, and are durable for long-term use in a residential care setting.

Any guidance, product recommendations, or examples of best practice currently being utilised in healthcare or aged care facilities would be greatly appreciated.

[Carrie Spinks]

Hi Diane,

My understanding of guidelines:

Shower curtains are not generally the preferred option where the design can avoid them, particularly from an IPC perspective.

In residential aged care, bathrooms are part of the resident’s home environment and there are usually better, easier-to-clean design options.

From an IPC perspective: Shower curtains have some disadvantages:

They are porous or semi-porous, depending on the material.
They can become contaminated with body fluids, faecal material and microorganisms.
They are frequently touched, particularly around the opening/leading edge.
They require a defined cleaning and laundering/replacement program.
Wet curtains can remain damp, potentially supporting microbial survival.
They can be difficult to clean effectively while in situ.
Their lower edges may contact wet floors or become contaminated during showering.

The Australasian Health Facility Guidelines – Part D: Infection Prevention and Control (2025) https://healthfacilityguidelines.com.au/part/part-d-infection-prevention-and-control-2 specifically identifies curtains as having potential infection risks because they are frequently touched and may become contaminated with body fluids or other substances, as well as creating additional laundering/replacement workload.

Alternatives include: fixed, smooth, impervious and easily cleanable privacy solutions, such as:

a fixed shower screen, where appropriate;
a full-height or appropriately designed glass screen;
other non-porous, cleanable privacy partitions.

This fits well with the Australian aged-care design approach. The National Aged Care Design Principles and Guidelines https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/national-aged-care-design-principles-and-guidelines?language=en promote ensuite bathrooms for bedrooms and specifically recognise private bathrooms as supporting improved infection control.

Consider:
For new residential aged-care construction or refurbishment: design out the curtain where possible rather than relying on a system to clean and replace it.

Hope this is helpful

Regards Carrie

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