Shower curtains should stay clean because they’re part of the shower, right? Unfortunately not. They can be one of the hardest things to keep clean! Soap scum, mildew, and mold can all build up on your shower curtain, making it seem dirty and grimy. But don’t worry; you can take a few simple steps to clean your shower curtain or plastic liner and keep it looking fresh—even if cleaning a shower curtain isn’t your favorite way to spend your time.
How to Clean a Cloth Shower Curtain
If your cloth or plastic shower curtain is labeled machine washable, you can clean it in the washing machine. Start by removing the shower curtain from the rod and shaking it out to remove any loose dust. Then, place the shower curtain in the washer with a couple of clean towels to help scrub your curtain clean and prevent wrinkles. Wash with a gentle laundry detergent plus half a cup of baking soda for an improved clean. Run on a warm cycle, and consider removing it for the spin cycle, which is usually unnecessary for washing shower curtains. Hang back up to dry!
How to Wash a Shower Curtain: By Hand
If your shower curtain isn’t made of a machine-washable material or if you don’t have a washing machine, you can clean it by hand. Remove the shower curtain from the rod and place it in a tub full of warm water. Add 1/4 cup of baking soda and a sprinkle of laundry detergent into the water. Using a microfiber cloth, scrub the shower curtain thoroughly by hand. You can hang your curtain back up to allow it to dry thoroughly.
How to Clean a Plastic Shower Curtain
If your shower curtain is starting to look a little worse for wear, but you don’t want to go through the hassle of taking it down to wash, don’t worry – cleaning a plastic curtain is simple without taking it off. All you need is a spray bottle, vinegar, and a little elbow grease to disinfect your shower curtain.
Start by mixing one-part vinegar with four parts water in the spray bottle. Focusing on the inside of the curtain that hangs in the tub, spray your cleaner to saturate the inside. Let the mixture sit to break down any mold or mildew, then scrub clean with a sponge. You can do the same for any other parts of your curtain that look dirty without removing the curtain from the rod!
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Cleaning your shower curtain is necessary to maintain a clean and pleasant bathroom environment. Cloth shower curtains that hang outside of the shower should be washed once a quarter. Plastic curtains and liners coming in contact with water should be washed monthly to avoid mold and mildew build-up. But if you’re not feeling up to the task, a Tasker is just a click away to make it happen.
