What can you do if you’re a renter and you want to hang a shower curtain? Damaging the walls is out of the question, so the smartest option is to find the best tension shower rods.
Tension shower rods aren’t installed with tools, but they vary quite a bit with regard to quality. We set out to find the absolute best of the bunch.
Keep reading to learn about the most reliable tension shower rods on the market.
Contents
- 1 Our Recommended Shower Curtain Rods
- 2 10 Best Tension Shower Rods:
- 2.1 1. AmazonBasics Rust Resistant Easy to Install Tension Shower Doorway Curtain Rod
- 2.2 2. iDesign Shower Curtain Rod
- 2.3 3. Zenna Home NeverRust Aluminum Tension Mount Curved Shower Rod
- 2.4 4. RoomDividersNow Premium Tension Curtain Rod
- 2.5 5. BRIOFOX Shower Curtain Rods 42-72 Inches
- 2.6 6. Zenna Home, Chrome NeverRust Aluminum Double Curved Rustproof Shower Rod
- 2.7 7. Zenna Home Adjustable Tension Shower Curtain Rod
- 2.8 8. BRIOFOX Tension Curtain Rod 43-73 Inches
- 2.9 9. ALLZONE Tension Shower Window Curtain Rod
- 2.10 10. BINO Expandable Curved Shower Curtain Rod
- 3 Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Tension Shower Rods
- 4 Making the Decision
Our Recommended Shower Curtain Rods
- Our Rating:
- AmazonBasics Rust Resistant Tension Shower Doorway Curtain Rod
- Size: 24-36" up to 78-108"
Rod can hold: 12 lbs (rod is 7 lbs)
Colors: Chrome, Nickel, White, Black, or Bronze.
AmazonBasics 1-year limited warranty
- Our Rating:
- iDesign Shower Curtain Rod
- Size: 26-42" up to 78-108"
Rod can hold: N/A
Colors: Matte Black, Bronze, Dark Bronze and White
Material: Steel; plastic
- Our Rating:
- Zenna Home NeverRust Aluminum Tension Mount Curved Shower Rod
- Size: 50-72"
Rod can hold: N/A
Colors: Chrome, Oil Rubbed Bronze and Satin Nickel
Material: Lightweight but strong aluminum
10 Best Tension Shower Rods:
1. AmazonBasics Rust Resistant Easy to Install Tension Shower Doorway Curtain Rod
- Adjustable-length curtain rod for easily hanging curtains
- Simple set-up—no tools required; expands with a simple twist; provides consistent tension for a long-lasting, tight, secure fit
- Can be used for shower curtains or hanging curtains in windows or doorways; maximum weight for this rod is 15 lb
- Sleek contemporary style; choice of color for easy coordinating with surrounding decor
- Measures 36 to 54 inches; backed by an AmazonBasics one-year limited warranty
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
When all that you’re looking for is the best tension shower rod at an affordable price, keep this selection in mind. It’s brought to you by AmazonBasics, so you know that it gets the job done.
This one is a good choice if you’re looking for a minimalist design that won’t call a lot of attention. It’s black, so it will look fantastic in a variety of décor styles.
This one also is available in a range of sizes from 24 to 36 inches up to 78 to 108 inches. This means that whether you’re dealing with a tiny shower stall or a huge, customized shower, you’ll be able to get a tension rod that fits.
Regardless of the length of the rod, the maximum weight that it can bear is 15 pounds.
What Customers Are Saying
Most people love the sleek and simple design, but many people wish that this rod could carry more weight.
Pros
- Affordable
- Sleek design
- Installs easily
Cons
- Doesn’t hold much weight
Conclusion
If you’re hanging a lightweight shower curtain, this is an excellent solution.
2. iDesign Shower Curtain Rod
- Extra large constant tension shower rod is perfect for bathroom, shower stall, bathtub, changing area, closet, window opening, and more.
- Constant Tension technology provides strong tension without shifting. Non-slip end caps provide added stability
- Installation is quick and easy - just extend to fit opening, twist and lock into place for a firm hold
- Made of corrosion- and rust-resistant steel with a matte black and plastic end caps. Rust-resistant for years of use
- Shower curtain expands from 78 to 108 inches.NOTE:The product will not be usable until it is expanded to the 78 mark.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
Available in a variety of sizes starting at 26 inches and extending up to 108 inches, this is a versatile solution. This model deserves to be among the best tension shower curtain rods because it’s made from rust- and corrosion-resistant steel. Accordingly, you get years of use.
Although the manufacturer does not disclose a weight limit, many people remark upon how sturdy it is. The materials out of which the rod is built appear to be of good quality, which indicates that this is a durable pick.
Installation wasn’t much of a problem, and the tension is tight enough to declare that this thing isn’t going anywhere.
What Customers Are Saying
People love how durable this rod is and how great it looks, though critics wish that the instructions were clearer.
Pros
- Very sturdy
- Good price
- Quality materials
Cons
- Unclear instructions
Conclusion
People who can parse the instructions on this one will love how durable it is.
3. Zenna Home NeverRust Aluminum Tension Mount Curved Shower Rod
- Made of lightweight but strong aluminum, chrome shower rod will never rust
- Transforms your shower and increases elbow room
- Rod extends to wall and holds firmly in place
- Rod is easily adjustable to fit shower openings from 50 to 72 inches, with no cutting required
- EASY TO INSTALL: No tools, no drilling and no damage to walls
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
Here’s a solution for those of you who prefer a curved shower rod. Because it is curved, this rod allows for six-and-a-half more inches of elbow room.
However, this is the best curved shower rod because of its beautiful design. We love the elegant chrome finish, and the rust-proof guarantee. The manufacturer is able to offer this guarantee because the rod is made from aluminum rather than steel.
Available in one size, this tension rod can be adjusted from a minimum of 50 inches up to 72 inches.
With U.S.-based customer service available, this tension rod is a bargain in more ways than one.
What Customers Are Saying
Most people find that although this one may cost more than others, it’s worth the extra price. Critics warn that the end caps may damage drywall.
Pros
- Rust-proof guarantee
- Made from aluminum
- U.S.-based customer support
Cons
- May damage drywall
Conclusion
This gorgeous curved rod will enhance any shower.
4. RoomDividersNow Premium Tension Curtain Rod
- Our heavy-duty tension rods give you a creative, easy way to hang curtains and room dividers within minutes (fast, drill-free set-up)
- Rods are installed using spring loaded tension between walls and hold strong with clear rubber end grips (clean installation)
- We collaborated with industrial engineers to create the strongest 80in-120in tension rod on the market today (great for large spaces up to 10ft)
- 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED - Proudly based in the United States. CALL US, MESSAGE US, CONTACT US ANY TIME!
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
This is another option that’s available in many sizes. The shortest spans from 28 to 50 inches while the longest stretches from 120 to a whopping 150 inches. That makes this the best shower curtain rod for a large, custom shower.
A made in the U.S.A. product, the manufacturer encourages its customers to call with questions and comments. The manufacturer also boasts an extra-strong hold on all of its tension rods.
These rods are fixed in place with clear rubber end pads that blend into the background. Each rod is one-inch in diameter and features a sturdy one-inch spring.
What Customers Are Saying
Fans remark that even the longest of these rods is able to hold with bowing. However, if you’re thinking of using these rods for a really heavy shower curtain, you may want to look elsewhere.
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Extra-strong rods
- Clear rubber end caps
Cons
- May struggle with really heavy shower curtains
Conclusion
These well-designed shower curtain rods are the perfect complement to any bathroom.
5. BRIOFOX Shower Curtain Rods 42-72 Inches
- 304 Stainless Steel Shower Curtain Rod on Amazon. Super-Large Non-Slip Plate, No Drilling, No Holes, Easily Install, Max Load 30 lbs.
- Never Rust, Super-Thick Stainless Steel (5 Years Non-Corrosion) and Easy Cleaning.
- Apply for All Surface, Include Wallpaper Wall, Tile Wall, Wooden Frame, Etc.
- SOLID AND STRONG, EASILY INSTALL, CORROSION RESISTANT, NO HOLES OR MARKS.
- Briofox Provides One-Year Limited Maintenance or Replacement.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
This stainless steel shower curtain rod is super thick and works hard at repelling rust. With an oversized non-slip plate, this is one of the best shower rods because it stays in place so well.
The 43 inch to 73 inch size is ideal for most shower openings, and this rod looks particularly sleek and elegant. It also seems to be pretty sturdy. While it’s probably wise not to overload it, it seems safe to assume that even a heavier shower curtain might do well with this rod.
What Customers Are Saying
Most people praise this tension rod for being easy to install and for staying in place. Many of them remark that this rod is sturdy and durable. However, some critics note that the rod and the end caps may come with different finishes.
Pros
- Seems sturdy
- Easy to install
- Durable
Cons
- The rod and the end caps may have different finishes
Conclusion
This sturdy and reliable choice is a good value too.
6. Zenna Home, Chrome NeverRust Aluminum Double Curved Rustproof Shower Rod
- STRONG, LIGHTWEIGHT AND RUSTPROOF CONSTRUCTION: Guaranteed for life against rust
- Dual rod design; second rod can be used to hang towels or clothes, or to separate a shower liner and shower curtain to help keep mildew from forming
- Innovative curved design provides valuable extra “elbow room”
- Instructions and mounting hardware included; no cutting required
- Rich chrome finish complements most bath décor and hardware choices
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
This aluminum, chrome finish tension shower rod has a great deal to recommend it. For instance, it has a significant curve that gives you more than a foot of extra elbow room in the shower. Additionally, it features two rods, so that you can hang a curtain and a liner separately.
Why might you want a double rod? It’s mainly because it helps the liner to dry faster and to keep the curtain dry. Alternatively, you could hang both your liner and curtain on one rod, reserving the other for a towel or a shower caddy.
What Customers Are Saying
Because aluminum doesn’t rust, you can trust that this rod will stand the test of time. Fans love the way that it makes any shower seem spacious. Critics wish that a drill wasn’t necessary for installation.
Pros
- A double rod
- Really wide curve
- Seems sturdy
Cons
- Requires a drill for installation
Conclusion
This beautiful, useful and rust-proof rod will look great in any bathroom.
7. Zenna Home Adjustable Tension Shower Curtain Rod
- Innovative TwistTight technology allows for secure installation with no drilling, no tools and no damage to your walls
- Adjustable rod fits in spaces from 44 to 72 inches (ideal for most standard bath and shower spaces)
- Steel construction with a brushed nickel finish that resists rust
- Tension mechanism adjusts for a secure fit, and the included non-marring end caps ensure that your walls are not damaged
- Shower rod is made to be used with any standard shower rings or hooks for easy installation of a shower curtain or liner
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
If a double shower curtain rod isn’t for you, then perhaps you’ll consider this alternative offering from Zenna. The brushed nickel finish is particularly attractive, and even the most budget-conscious among you would have to agree that this rod is a bargain.
This rod relies on TwistTight technology to keep it firmly in place. It will fit any space between 44 and 72 inches, so it’s suitable for just about any standard shower.
Steel construction ensures that this tension rod resists rust.
What Customers Are Saying
People who love it say that it looks great in their bathroom and is easy to install. Nonetheless, others remark that some pretty good hand strength is required at installation.
Pros
- Budget-conscious
- Nice finish
- Perfect dimensions
Cons
- Twisting into place requires strong hands
Conclusion
Anyone seeking an affordable solution will be happy with the price and performance of this product.
8. BRIOFOX Tension Curtain Rod 43-73 Inches
- Heavy Duty, High Strength Steel Tube, Thickness of the tube increased by 60%. Max Load 30 pounds.
- Rust-Resistance, newest high-tech non-corrosion electroplating. Corrosion resistance capacity doubled.
- Non-Fall Down, Tension Mechanism inside maintains powerful tension. Max Load 30 Pounds.
- Apply for All Surface, include wallpaper, paint wall, tile wall, wooden frame, Etc.
- Briofox Provides One-Year Limited Maintenance or Replacement.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
The manufacturer of these bathroom curtain rods boasts that they can hold up to 30 pounds. That’s pretty impressive. Accordingly, you can not only hang your shower curtain on these rods but also your shower caddy and a wet towel without any problem.
Nonetheless, this is a really economical choice that is rust and corrosion resistant. Also according to the manufacturer, this rod is constructed from a particularly thick pipe, which makes it sturdier than the competition.
What Customers Are Saying
People like the substantial weight of this rod, saying that it feels sturdy and strong. Nonetheless, a few people report problems with the finish chipping off the rod.
Pros
- Sturdy
- Holds up to 30 pounds
- Well-made
Cons
- The finish may chip off
Conclusion
Economical and practical, this tension shower rod is an asset in the bathroom.
9. ALLZONE Tension Shower Window Curtain Rod
- Unique and button feature, lock in position, never fall down, 100% safety
- Holds heavy blackout shell curtain and also can used as drying rack too. 20 lbs will be no problem
- Include both of smooth and rough surface like Wallpaper wall,Tile wall,wooden frame,etc
- Will not scratch or damage the installation surface.
- No drilling, no tools, simple to extend,Pull and Lock,Installed alone within minute.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
This inexpensive bathtub curtain rod can fill any space between 42 and 81 inches, which makes it really versatile.
Able to hold up to 20 pounds, this is a pretty sturdy rod that will stand up to most usage. Well-designed and easy to install, this basic rod seems like it’s well suited to its intended purpose.
This rod also comes with an extender that can be used if you’re curtaining off a particularly large shower.
What Customers Are Saying
People frequently praise this rod for its design. However, some people don’t like that this tension rod doesn’t have the usual twist technology. Instead, it relies on pushing in a spring, placing the rod and then releasing the spring. It may be necessary to repeat the process several times, which can be hard on the hands.
Pros
- Pretty sturdy
- Good design
- Comes with an extender
Cons
- The installation mechanism isn’t right for everyone
Conclusion
With its affordable price and reliable functionality, this is a good choice.
10. BINO Expandable Curved Shower Curtain Rod
- Curved design keeps your curtain away and gives you more room in your shower
- Fits in openings ranging from 48 to 72 inches
- Made out of durable steel with a polished chrome finish
- Measures 2 x 2 x 48
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
Extending from 48 to 72 inches, this bathroom shower rod should be the perfect size for most showers. This is another curved rod, so it gives you up to 10 additional inches of elbow room in the shower.
Of course, to take full advantage of that curve, the rod needs to be extended to its full length. Those with smaller showers won’t get an extra 10 inches of space.
What Customers Are Saying
People frequently remark on how easy this rod is to install, and they love having extra space in the shower. Nonetheless, a few users were confounded by the instructions.
Pros
- Provides up to 10 inches of extra room
- Works with standard-sized showers
- Easy to install
Cons
- Instructions are confusing for some
Conclusion
With good looks and reliable sturdiness, this rod is a great choice.
Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Tension Shower Rods
A tension rod is the ideal solution when you want to hang a shower curtain without damaging the wall or tile that surrounds the shower. Instead of relying on screws to stay in place, a tension rod relies on a strong spring. This means that there is no need to use tools to install a tension rod.
First
The first consideration before buying a tension rod is the size of the space that it needs to fit. Get out a tape measure and span the distance between two facing walls. Be precise to ensure that you get a rod that’s long enough.
Additionally, take notice of the wall where the rod will be placed. Tile or a concrete wall can easily take the pressure of a tension rod.
Look for a stud to ensure a particularly sturdy installation. Installing against simple drywall may be inadvisable, because the tension can cause damage.
When you shop for a tension rod, ensure that it is capable of extending to a length that is longer than the opening that you measured.
Also, try to find out how much weight the tension rod can bear. If you’re using a lightweight shower curtain, this won’t be much of an issue.
However, if your shower curtain is heavy or if you plan to hang anything else on the rod, like wet towels or drying laundry, then you’ll need to get a rod that can handle a larger load.
It’s additionally wise to consider your bathroom’s décor. It’s likely that the tension rod will come in a variety of finishes like chrome, brushed nickel, black and white.
Think of the other fixtures in the bathroom, and try to match their finish with the tension rod.
Shape
Shape is yet another thing to think about before making a purchase. Straight rods are the standard, but more consumers are beginning to lead toward curved rods that make any shower feel at least a few inches wider.
We’ve also reviewed shower pans and shower panels for bathroom.
Making the Decision
In our opinion, the best tension shower rods are made by RoomDividersNow. We found quite a lot to like about not only the manufacturer but also their products. These tension rods are made in the U.S.A. and are available in extra-long lengths. Strong and sturdy, we love how these rods grip the walls.
If you prefer a curved rod, then try the Zenna Home Tension Mount Curved Shower Rod. We like the rust-proof aluminum and the extra elbow room.