The 10 Best Tension Shower Rods – [Reviews & Rankings]

Over 235,000 people U.S. citizens, over 15 years old, visit emergency rooms each year due to bathroom-related injuries (Source).

Home safety should be at the forefront of our minds when purchasing shower and bathroom products. 81% of these visits occur due to slips and falls.

To help reduce the risk of injury in your bathroom (safety rails best options here), it’s important to limit the potential spread of water as much as possible. A secure shower rod can help to do this.

By using a tension power rod, users can quickly and securely attach a shower curtain in the bathrooms.

A tension shower rod doesn’t just serve a functional purpose but also contributes to the look of your home. It’s important to find a rod that offers superior quality whilst also fitting in with its surroundings.

The best tension shower rods should offer durability, be easy to use, and support a variety of loads. Our guide below will highlight some top-rated choices.

What is a Tension Shower Rod? 

Could a tension shower be the missing piece that makes your bathroom ensemble complete?

To start with, a shower rod is a pole your shower curtain hangs from. Many shower rods are fastened to the wall permanently. Screws and anchors do a good job of keeping them secure, but they also leave lasting damage on your bathroom walls.

A tension shower rod does the job of fastening your privacy curtain to the wall. And the tension shower rod has the added advantage of leaving your bathroom and shower and shower walls unmarked.

Common Uses for Shower Tension Rods

Interestingly, tension shower rods don’t have to be confined to your bathroom! Tension shower rods can be converted into doing it yourself shoe racks. They can also be used for privacy curtains in other parts of the house.

Quick Comparison of the Top 5 Tension Shower Rods

1. Zenna Home 35633BNP – Best For Extra Shower Space

We all hate the feeling of the shower curtain touching your arm when you’re in the shower. The Zenna 35633BNP curved tension rod provides 6.5 inches of additional elbow room to any shower space.

This unit is of aluminum construction and designed to be 100% rust-proof. Zenna Home even go that extra step and guarantee this for life. Buyers can now rest assured knowing they won’t have to deal with any rust spots in their bathroom.

As it’s made from aluminum, this unit is also incredibly lightweight, weighing a mere 2.5 lbs. This allows it to be installed without any unnecessary strain on the user.

This unit is also offered in a variety of finishes letting buyers get the right fit for their home. Whether it be Satin Nickel, Chrome or Oil Rubbed Bronze, the Zenna Home looks good everywhere.

The patented TwistTight technology allows for simple installation as users can just extend and twist to secure the rod.

2. BRIOFOX Tension Rod – Best For Stability

For those looking for a shower rod with style, the BRIOFOX offers a clean stainless steel design. Yet it’s most notable feature’s the work put into making it one of the most table tension rods available. Utilizing spring tension coupled with powerful suction cups it is incredibly rigid. The suction cups alone can support 5 kg each before the rod is installed. Once the suction cups are secured to the wall, the user can simply twist the tension rod, extending it into place.

The BRIOFOX is coated with a premium corrosion-resistant finish to keep it smooth and rust-free. This model can be attached to any surface that the suction cups can be applied to for added versatility. The suction cups are also 100% rubber. This will prevent any marks or damage to your wall during installation or when you remove the tension rod.

This unit uses a high-quality 304 stainless that guarantees rust-free for 5 years. BRIOFOX are so confident with the quality of their product they offer 100% risk-free satisfaction guarantees with every purchase. This makes for replacing the rod extremely simple if a problem were to arise. But, with this many guarantees attached, you can rest assured in the product quality.

3. Zenna Home 771SS – Best For Heavier Loads

With a chrome finish, the Zeena Home 771SS will add some glitz to any bathroom. This unit also has a simple extend and twist installation requiring no special tool or knowledge for installation. The ornate grip coverings then simply slide into place once the tension rod is secured to the wall.

The Zenna 771SS doesn’t just look good, it can also support up to 30lbs of weight. This makes it one of the strongest shower tension rods available on the market. It’ll easily support shower curtains as well as heavier blackout curtains. Coming with a chip and rust-resistant finish, this unit is designed to fit all standard bathrooms.

This unit is also extremely cost-effective allowing for multiple units to be purchased and placed in your home for the price of a single, more costly product.

4. InterDesign Forma Constant Tension Rod – Best For Quick Installation

One of the most popular tension rods on the market, the InterDesign offers both style and practicality. This model can be unboxed and installed within minutes of arriving at your door. It can do this through its simple compress, twist, and release installation process. The constant tension placed on the bathroom walls helps to ensure zero slippage of the rod. DIY has never been so effortless.

The brushed stainless steel doesn’t just look good but also helps to prevent rust. Its sleek design often leads to this unit becoming repurposed as easy to install curtain rails. No more screws or marks on your walls at home.

InterDesign also offers this unit in a variety of extension ranges. The smallest of which ranges between 26″ and 42″ where the larger model can bridge between 78″ and 108″. This is great for buyers with more obscure measurement requirements.

InterDesign has been producing affordable home products for over 40 years. To operate this long they must be doing something right!

5. AllZone Tension Rod – Best For Reach

Featuring AllZones’ patented lock-in technology there’s no need to worry about your shower rail coming down again! Whether tiled walls, wooden frames, or wallpapered walls, you can securely fasten this unit into place.

The Allzone has a significantly greater extension range than other shower rods, up to 81 inches. This allows the unit to operate as a drying rack, clothes rail, and even a curtain pole. The Allzone can do all of this whilst needing zero screws and leaving zero marks on your walls. It can also easily support heavy black-out curtains holding a weight of 20lbs without a problem.

The Allzone can be purchased in varying extension ranges. The smallest model offering 28″ – 41″ and the largest at 83″ to 122″. This helps for those with unique bathroom sizing.

6. Zenna Home Adjustable Shower Curtain – Best for Easy Installation

We get it, we get it. Almost every tension shower rod can be labeled as an easy and quick install. However, very few manage to match Zenna Home’s standard adjustable shower curtain when it comes to the installation process.

Unlike other tension shower rods, the Zenna home adjustable curtain requires no tools to install whatsoever and is designed to be easy to install. The curtain rod itself can extend anywhere from 43 to 72 inches in length, making it a very versatile pick.

What we really like about the Zenna Home curtain is that it doesn’t just come in one color. You can choose anything from a creamy brushed nickel to a satiny beige to a decadent bone swirl. It works with your bathroom design, and we can respect that.

7. The Amazer Spring Tension Shower Rod – Best for Non-Tiled Walls

Are you worried about your shower curtain wrreaking havoc on your wallpapered walls, or worse, on your painted walls? We get it. That’s why we decided to include a tension shower rod that has a sterling reputation when it comes to keeping your walls safe and sound.

The Amazer Spring Tension Shower Rod uses (you guessed it!) spring tension to hold itself up. The material in the rod is designed to be soft on walls made of materials that need a little extra care. Since it doesn’t involve rubber “feet,” you also won’t have to worry about it causing paint problems.

Much like other rustproof shower curtains on this list, the Amazer comes in a very nice array of different colors and styles. If you’ve been looking for a high quality rod that won’t harm your walls, this is it. It works with showers 43 to 72 inches in width.

8. HabiLife Tension Curtain Rod 50-81 Inches – Best for Slippery Walls

Homeowners who are having a hard time with keeping a curtain rod up know that spring tension shower rods don’t always work. Even “heavy duty” curtain rods have a tendency of slipping when they’re placed in a bathroom that’s heavily used.

Whether it’s due to the water or just a matter of slippery tiling, there are some walls that just don’t seem to take well to tension rods. HabiLife’s stainless steel curtain rod is made to cling to walls that don’t usually take to shower curtain rods. The secret “sauce?” It’s got a rubber suction cup that makes it cling better.

This shower rod is easy to install and easier to work with. The big detractor with this option is the aesthetic. While its stainless steel design isn’t exactly the most glamorous on this list, it’s still a look that works with most bathroom designs.

9. iDesign Fombu Shower Rod – Best for Rustic Bathrooms

Most shower rods keep a look that involves metal, stone, or a painted motif—and that’s great for bathrooms that channel that specific look. For the most part, shower rods can work well with almost any style. Once in a while, though, you’ll find a bathroom that needs to have a more rustic look for its shower.

If you have a bathroom that revels in the look of faux wood and stone, you might as well get a shower curtain that works with that vibe. iDesign came up with a phenomenal tension shower rod that’s easy to install, durable, and also comes with a gorgeous wooden aesthetic.

Fans of unique shower accents will love this tension shower rod, especially since it’s mold-proof and slip-resistant. Those who just want an affordable way to add a punch of style to an otherwise drab look will adore this.

10. PrettyHome L-Shaped Shower Rod – Best for Corner Showers

Most tension shower rods you’ll see are meant for showers that are surrounded by three walls. But, what happens if you have a shower that is tucked in a corner of your bathroom and needs a serious curve to keep the rest of the flooring protected?

Simple, you get an L-shaped shower rod like the one from PrettyHome. Contrary to popular belief, having an L-shaped shower rod doesn’t mean that you have to whip out a drill to install it in your bathroom. Tension rods exist in this style!

This adjustable shower rod can fit a wide range of corner showers and is designed to be as easy as possible to install. Though this shower rod is still easier to install than a model that requires a drill, it can still be trickier than typical I-shaped rods. Even so, it’s a lifesaver for DIY newbies.

How Does a Tension Shower Rod Work? 

Tension shower rods use spring technology to hold themselves in place. The pressure of the springs within its two poles keeps it firmly constricted between the shower or bath walls. 

Are Tension Shower Rods Any Good? 

Tension shower rods are a great choice for people who want to avoid marking up their bathroom walls.

However, before buying a tension shower rod you should check its weight-bearing capacity.

The tension shower curtain is not actually screwed into the wall. It relies on compression to keep it up, so its weight capacity is more important than a regular shower rod.

Most shower rods can support at least 20 pounds. Some can support as much as 30 pounds. Either amount should be more than enough to keep a normal shower curtain hanging.

It may be worth springing for a slightly pricier metal shower rod, rather than a plastic one. Plastic is usually strong and durable, but metal is even stronger and less likely to sag in the middle.

What Size Tension Rod Do I Need For My Shower? 

Before buying your tension shower rod, it is important that you measure the area where you plan to put it. If you skip this step, you may buy a tension shower rod that is too small to hang properly in your desired space.

Length can especially become a concern if you are purchasing the tension shower rod to hang by a bathtub, or combined bath/shower. A bath nook is typically larger than a shower nook. Not all tension shower rods may come with adequate length capabilities.

Many tension shower rods can extend comfortably to around 45 to 75 inches. You’ll want a shower rod with the capability to extend a couple of inches longer than the actual space.

Extra inches are necessary because that way the innerspring inside will still be coiled enough. That spring tension is what the shower rod relies on to hold it up.

If you buy a rod that is just barely long enough, the spring can become overstretched. This will diminish its holding ability. You may have to look a little harder for an appropriate tension shower rod if your bathroom is atypical in size.

If your shower is smaller than a typical bathroom, you run the risk of buying a tension shower rod too large to set properly. If your bath and shower area is larger than most, an average tension rod simply won’t be long enough to make the grade.

How to Install a Tension Shower Rod 

Fortunately, installing a tension shower rod is fairly simple. Unlike non-tension rods, you won’t need to fiddle with tools and screws to get your shower rod safely mounted.

All you’ll need is measuring tape and the actual tension shower rod itself. The tension shower rod consists of two interlocking poles. Twisting where they join lengthens or shortens it.

Once the rod is almost fully extended to the required length, slip the shower curtain onto the rod.

Things To Consider Before Buying A Shower Rod

When looking to buy a tension shower rod that best fits your needs, there are some factors that you may wish to consider.

We’ve compiled a list of topics that’ll help you choose the right rod for you, covering everything from load weight to easy installation.

Accurate Measurements

Measurement isn’t only vital when fitting in your Best 10 inch Rough In Toilet or the Top-Rated Self-Closing Seat that comes with it.

It’s so incredibly important that you measure the bathroom walls that you wish to place the rod between. Don’t simply measure a single distance, measure at regular intervals from top-to-bottom.

This will help reveal any warping in your walls. Warped walls may cause the tensions rod to not grip properly due to it not being a flat surface.

Length

Now that you know what length of extension rod you are need make sure to check extension-ranges on products. With bathroom sizes being so varied, manufacturers typically produce the same product in multiple sizes. Most extension rods can extend between 45″ – 70″. If you require a rod significantly smaller or larger then you may want to look at specialist products.

Load Weight

Depending upon the curtain type you wish to hang, and the length of the rod, weight becomes problematic. The further a rod is extended the greater the strain will be when curtains are in the center position.

Therefore, it’s not only important to check the weight your extension rod can support but also the weight of the shower curtains. 20lbs of load-bearing weight should suffice most needs but there are rods supporting up to 30lbs available. You may also want to consider the weight of the tension rod itself. A lightweight tension shower rod will allow for an easier installation.

Style

For many of us, style is one of the defining factors that lead to our final purchase. Whilst it is important for the shower rod to fit in with your home, it shouldn’t be a deal-breaker. Your primary focus should be defining the functional qualities that you’re after.

Once you have these features listed, then you can find a tension rod that matches the spec whilst also looking great.

Functionality

Finding a tension rod that offers good extension length, rust-resistant finishing, and durability should be priority number one. Especially when you have one of these Top Shower Systems with Body Jets, your tension rods might always be drenched with water.

Whilst most tensions rods offer similar functions it’s important to read the details.

Some will provide guarantee rust free shower rods where others may just be rust-resistant. You may also want a tension rod that can be easily uninstalled and moved to another bathroom, some may prove more difficult than others. Some rods also offer better means of securing themselves to the wall.

Most tension shower rods also have non-slip features. Depending upon the surface of the walls where the rods being mounted, compression rods may be more secure than suction-assisted rods.

Warranties And Guarantees

Always check the stores’ warranty policy alongside that of the manufacturers. Some brands offer extended warranties across their more heavily patented technology. This will help reduce costs if the product proves faulty.

These higher-end brands also offer guarantees of either rust-free or satisfaction levels. These are definitely worth seeking out as they can make your life a lot easier further down the line.

Easy Installation

When it comes to bathroom items, you would always want something you can install quickly, like these Top High Pressure Handheld Shower Heads.

Finding a tension shower rod that can also be easily installed would be a no-brainer. There are a variety of installation methods, all are followed out with relative ease. Some methods available are compression fits, twist and secure, and suction cups.

Material

The material used is often reflected in the price of the product. Whilst plastic tension rods are extremely affordable and offer similar strength, they won’t look great in your home. Most shower rods will be made from stainless steel or aluminum, both looking similar.

Aluminum can provide better resistance to rust, however, stainless steel is tougher meaning it’s less likely to bend is too much weight is exerted on the shower rod.

Ready To Buy The Best Tension Shower Rods?

It’s true across all products and services that you get what you pay for. This is especially true with shower extension rods. Whilst prices are never outrageously different among similar level products, it’s the slight differences that make the difference.

Paying that little extra could be the difference between having to replace your shower rod within 6 months as opposed to years.

Also, don’t be afraid of paying over or under budget in regards to style. It’s your home and you have to be happy with your purchase. As long as the product meets most of your requirements in regards to safety and functionality then get what looks good to you.

We would typically advise going for an aluminium shower tension rod of stainless steel. This is because aluminium is naturally more rust resistant than stainless steel. It’s also typically lighter with similar strength properties proving to be durable and reliable.

Here’s our final bathroom tip for you: maintain more than just the inside of your bathroom, use these Greatest Septic Tank Treatments to keep your septic tank clean!