6 Best RV Shower Curtain Rods For Curved Walls That Create More Space

That moment your elbow hits the cold, wet shower curtain is an RV rite of passage nobody enjoys. It’s a constant reminder of just how tight the quarters are, turning a simple shower into a game of human Tetris. The fix, however, is simpler and cheaper than you think: swapping your straight shower rod for a curved one.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!

Why a Curved Rod is an RV Shower Game-Changer

The most immediate benefit of a curved rod is elbow room. By bowing outwards, away from the shower pan, it carves out precious inches right where you need them most—at shoulder height. This isn’t just a minor improvement; it’s the difference between feeling claustrophobic and feeling like you have a functional, comfortable space to wash up. Suddenly, you can raise your arms to wash your hair without plastering a wet liner to your back.

This small addition of physical space has a massive psychological impact. When you aren’t constantly bumping into the curtain, the entire bathroom feels larger and more open. It reduces that "showering in a phone booth" sensation that plagues so many compact RV wet baths. You’re not just gaining six inches of physical space; you’re gaining a significant amount of comfort and a sense of normalcy.

Beyond comfort, there’s a practical hygiene benefit. The curved rod holds the curtain away from your body, but it also keeps it from bunching up against the inside of the shower stall. This improves air circulation, allowing the liner to dry faster and more thoroughly between uses. The result is less opportunity for mildew and soap scum to build up, which means a cleaner, healthier bathroom with less frequent scrubbing.

Stromberg Carlson Extend-A-Shower: RV Classic

If there’s one product designed specifically with the RVer in mind, this is it. The Stromberg Carlson Extend-A-Shower isn’t just a curved rod; it’s a pivoting system. It mounts to the wall on a hinge, allowing you to swing it out into the bathroom to create that spacious curve for showering, then swing it back into the shower stall when you’re done.

This dual-position functionality is its killer feature. When retracted, it gives you back all the floor space in your tiny bathroom, preventing you from having to shimmy past a permanently bowed-out rod. It’s a brilliant piece of small-space engineering that addresses two problems at once: a cramped shower and a cramped bathroom.

Installation requires drilling, as it’s a permanent mount designed for the rigors of the road. However, it’s built for RVs, so the hardware and instructions are generally better suited for thin walls than a standard residential rod. The trade-off for its incredible functionality is the presence of moving parts, which can wear over time. But for pure, purpose-built RV utility, the Extend-A-Shower is the long-standing champion.

Zenna Home NeverRust: Ultimate Durability

The name says it all. The Zenna Home NeverRust rods are typically made from aluminum, a material that simply cannot rust. In the perpetually damp environment of an RV bathroom—often with less-than-ideal ventilation—this is a massive advantage. While other rods with chrome or nickel finishes might eventually pit or corrode, an aluminum rod will look good for the life of your rig.

This is a fixed-curve, permanent-mount rod, meaning you get the spatial benefits all the time. It’s a "set it and forget it" solution for those who prioritize longevity and low maintenance over bells and whistles. Its simple, clean arc provides a significant increase in shower space without any complex mechanisms.

The key consideration here is that it’s a residential product adapted for RV use. You absolutely must discard the included drywall anchors and use hardware appropriate for thin RV walls, like molly bolts or by securing it directly to a wall stud. For the RVer who wants a bomb-proof, permanent upgrade and is comfortable with a proper installation, the NeverRust is a fantastic choice for its sheer durability.

Briofox Curved Tension Rod: No-Drill Solution

For many RV owners, the thought of drilling holes into their walls is terrifying. The Briofox and similar tension-style curved rods are the perfect answer. They install in minutes with no tools, using a spring-loaded mechanism to create pressure against the opposing walls. This makes it an ideal solution for renters, casual RVers, or anyone who wants an instant, damage-free upgrade.

The success of a tension rod depends entirely on the walls it’s pressing against. In an RV, shower surrounds are often made of thin, slightly flexible ABS plastic. You have to be careful not to overtighten the rod, which could warp or even crack the wall panel. It’s a delicate balance between making it tight enough to hold and loose enough to be safe.

The biggest trade-off is security. Temperature fluctuations and road vibrations can cause a tension rod to lose its grip and fall. It’s not a matter of if, but when. Despite this, the ease of installation is a powerful draw. For a quick, effective, and completely reversible way to gain more shower space, a tension rod is an unbeatable option, as long as you’re prepared to re-tighten it periodically.

LDR Exquisite Bowed Rod: Stylish Chrome Finish

Sometimes you want function that also looks great. The LDR Exquisite Bowed Rod often comes in a polished chrome finish that brings a touch of residential, hotel-like style to an RV bathroom. If you’re undertaking a larger renovation and want to elevate the look of your space, this rod can be a beautiful finishing touch that feels more premium than standard-issue plastic or aluminum.

Like most fixed rods, this is a permanent-mount solution that requires drilling. The installation is straightforward, but as always, the key is using the right anchors for your RV’s wall construction. The gentle, consistent bow adds a significant amount of room and contributes to a more modern aesthetic.

The primary consideration is the finish itself. While beautiful, polished chrome can be more susceptible to water spots and requires more frequent wiping down to look its best. Depending on the quality of the plating, it can also be more prone to corrosion over the long term compared to solid aluminum. This rod is a great pick for the RVer who prioritizes a specific look and is willing to do a little extra cleaning to maintain it.

PrettyHome Double Rod: Towel and Curtain Combo

The PrettyHome Double Rod offers a unique, two-in-one solution that is surprisingly perfect for RV life. It features two parallel curved rods: an inner rod for the waterproof shower liner and an outer rod for a decorative curtain or, more importantly, your towel. This simple design solves a common RV bathroom headache: where to hang your towel so it’s reachable and stays dry.

By hanging your towel on the outer rod, it’s kept away from the spray of the shower but is warmed by the steam. This eliminates the need for a separate towel hook, freeing up precious wall space. You can step out of the shower and grab your towel without dripping water all over the bathroom floor. It’s a small detail that dramatically improves the daily user experience.

The main trade-off is its footprint. A double rod assembly projects further into the bathroom than a single rod. Before buying, you must measure carefully. Ensure the outer rod won’t interfere with the bathroom door swinging open or make the space around the toilet uncomfortably tight. If you have the clearance, this rod is an incredibly efficient space-saving tool.

Moen Curved Rod: Secure Permanent-Mount Pick

When you want a rock-solid installation from a brand known for quality engineering, Moen is a top contender. Their curved shower rods are known for their robust mounting hardware, which provides a more secure and stable feel than many generic options. This is especially valuable in an RV, where walls can be less than perfectly plumb and road vibrations test every fixture.

Moen’s mounting brackets often feature a pivoting design. This small innovation makes installation much easier, as it accommodates walls that aren’t perfectly parallel—a common reality in RV construction. The result is a rod that feels like an integral part of the structure, not a flimsy add-on.

This level of quality comes at a slightly higher price point. For a weekend camper, it might be overkill. But for a full-timer or a serious RVer who values durability and a wiggle-free fixture, the investment is well worth it. You’re paying for better engineering, a more forgiving installation process, and the peace of mind that comes with a secure, permanent mount from a trusted brand.

Installation Tips for Curved RV Shower Rods

First and foremost, understand that your RV walls are not drywall. They are typically a thin sheet of luan plywood with a decorative vinyl layer, backed by insulation and an aluminum or wood frame. Using the drywall anchors that come in the box is a recipe for disaster; they will pull out and leave you with a damaged wall.

For a permanent mount, your best bet is to locate the wall studs. Use a stud finder to find the vertical aluminum or wood framing members and drill directly into them. This will provide the most secure anchor point possible. If a stud isn’t available where you need it, use a hollow-wall anchor specifically designed for thin materials, such as a molly bolt or a snap toggle anchor. Never rely on screwing directly into the thin luan panel alone.

If you’re using a tension rod, there are a few tricks to improve its stability. Place a small square of non-slip rubber shelf liner between the end cap of the rod and the wall to increase friction and prevent slippage. Be firm when tightening, but do not overtighten to the point where you see the wall begin to flex or bow inwards. Check its tension every few weeks, especially after a travel day, as vibrations can cause it to loosen.

Upgrading to a curved shower rod is one of the highest-impact, lowest-cost improvements you can make to your RV. It reclaims personal space, enhances comfort, and makes daily life on the road just a little bit easier. By choosing the right model for your needs—whether it’s a no-drill tension rod or a durable permanent mount—you can transform one of the most compromised spaces in your rig.