How to Clean Your Shower Curtains and Liners

Not only do the shower curtains and liners give your bathroom depth, they also significantly reduce splashing. These curtains and liners, whether made of fabric or plastic, are however not frequently cleaned, so they end up with soap scum, water spots, mildew, and other deposits building up after a while. Removing the curtain, the liner, and the rings every now and then and washing them with your hands or in the washing machine will, however, bring them back to their original sparkling state. See the step-by-step guide below on how to wash both the fabric and the plastic shower curtains.

Why Cleaning Your Shower Curtain and Liner Matters

The bathrooms are warm, moist areas that are a breeding ground for mold. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that mold is the culprit for triggering allergies and respiratory conditions. Neglected for quite some time now, the shower liners, curtains, and even the rings for the curtains are breeding grounds for bacteria and mold, the source of the stench. Systematic bathroom cleanup not only prevents such health hazards and better indoor air quality, but also the longer durability of bathroom accessories, therefore saving you the monetary expense of replacements.

How to Clean Fabric Shower Curtains

Fabric shower curtains are made from cotton, polyester, or a mix. They will quickly hold soap scum and mildew if you do not clean them properly. The following steps show how to wash them by machine or by hand. They also include some simple tips:

1. Check the Care Label

You should always read the washing label on your clothing first – check the recommended water temperature, wash cycle, and see if tumble dry is allowed. Following the label's instructions will help prevent shrinkage, preserve the garment's shape, and prevent fading.

2. Machine Washing Method

Step 1: Removing Any Hanging Hardware

• Take the shower curtain off the rod and remove any hooks or loops prior to machine washing to avoid damaging them. 

Step 2: Balance the Load

• Put 2 or 3 clean towels in the washer; they will help balance the wash and will help absorb the stains.

Step 3: Add Detergent

• Add a small amount of mild detergent and half a cup of baking soda.

Step 4: Set a Program

• For the curtain wash, use the "Cold, Gentle," program to avoid shrinkage or fading from high temperatures.

3. Handwashing (Can be used as directed by the label or for special stains)

Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Solution

• Fill the bathtub or another large basin with warm water, then add the proper amount of a mild detergent.

Step 2: Soak and Scrub

• Make sure the cloth shower curtain is thoroughly soaked, then gently wipe away any contaminants with a sponge or towel.

• Let the fabric shower curtain soak for about 10-15 minutes to allow the washing-the detergent to dissolve the moist residues of the stains. 

Step 3: Rinse thoroughly.

• Rinse, Rinse, Rinse in clean water, until there are no suds.

4. Drying and Daily Care

• After washing, hang your shower curtain back on rod or lay it flat to dry.

• Do not tumble dry at high temperature.

• We recommend to clean your shower curtain once a month or according to usage.

How to Clean Plastic Shower Curtains

Plastic shower curtains that are water-proof, durable, and removable, can be washed easily, but they will bind mildew, soap scum, and other issues eventually. To retard degradation and help improve their appearance, suggest that a regular cleaning schedule should be established. Below are 2 common cleaning methods and also some maintenance suggestions:

1. Machine Washing Method

Step 1: Remove the Shower Curtain

• Gently detach the plastic shower curtain from the rod and remove the hooks or rings to prevent any future damage.

Step 2: Pre-treat Stains

• If you see mildew or soap scum, you can mix up a paste of baking soda and a little water and apply it to the stained area directly, allow for 10-15 minutes to let the stain soften first and soak into the paste. 

Step 3: Washing Machine

• Put shower curtain flat in your washing machine. I also recommend putting in 2 or 3 old towels with the shower curtain. The towels will provide extra friction to improve cleaning and may help distribute the load.

Step 4: Select a Wash Setting

• Wash cycle: Select the "Gentle" or "Delicate" cycle

• Water temperature: Use warm water

• Detergent: Mild liquid laundry detergent

• Add optional: 1/2 cup white vinegar to break down soap scum and prevent mold.

Step 5: Drying

• Do not use a clothes dryer because the high temperature would warp the plastic.

• Right after you've washed, put the shower curtain back on the rod and allow it to air dry.

• Wait until thoroughly dry before showering to avoid the growth of bacteria.

2. Handwashing Method

Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Solution

• Fill a bathtub or large basin with warm water to prepare your cleaning solution. Combine the following:

                    1 cup of white vinegar

                    1 tablespoon of mild dish soap

Step 2: Soak the Shower Curtain

• Putting the entire shower curtain into the mixture will allow it to soak and loosen any stains for 20–30 minutes.

Step 3: Gently Scrub

• Gently wipe with a soft sponge or cloth, especially in areas where soap scum and mold are concentrated.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

• Make sure to wash thoroughly with warm water, so no detergent or vinegar is left behind.

• Remove (or shake off) excess water, hang back on the rail, and allow it to air dry.

3. Maintenance Tips

• Check the Label: Read and follow the manufacturer's cleaning restrictions so you are cleaning properly. 

• Use Gentle Tools: Do not use stiff brushes or scruffing fabric that can damage the surface. Use a soft bristle brush or microfiber cloth that will not scratch the surface of the shower curtain. 

• Good Ventilation: Make sure you have a strong airflow in the bathroom. If you have windows, open them (or doors) or turn on an exhaust fan every time you have a shower. This will help to reduce humidity and prevent mold from forming.

You clean your plastic shower curtain often and take good care of it. It will last longer and keep your bathroom clean.

How to Clean Shower Curtain Liners

While they are both plastic and fabric liners that lend additional waterproofing to your bathroom bonus is that they can build soap scum, dust, and mildew if not regularly cleaned. Here are instructions to clean your shower liner by machine washing or hand washing, along with helpful care tips.

1. Machine Washing Method

Step 1: Removal and Shakeout

• Remove the liner from the rod and remove the hooks or loops.

• Gently shake off any dust, hair, and soap scum.

Step 2: Loading the Washing Machine

• Toss the liner in the washing machine with two or three old towels; the towels will increase friction and balance the load.

Step 3: Select the "Delicate" or "Delicate" cycle.

• Add Detergent

• Add mild washing detergent.

• Adding half a cup of baking soda can help remove stains even better.

• Add 1/2 cup white vinegar in the rinse cycle to eliminate odors and mildew.

Step 4: Drying

• Do not use a dryer to prevent the material from warping;

• After washing, hang it back on the hanging rod immediately and place it in a ventilated place to dry naturally.

2. Handwashing Method

Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Solution

• Fill the bathtub or tub with warm water

• Add half a cup of white vinegar and a few drops of mild dish soap or laundry detergent.

Step 2: Soaking

• Completely submerge the cushion and let it sit for 20–30 minutes to allow the detergent to break down the stain.

Step 3: Gentle Scrubbing

• Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth to focus on areas with mildew and soap scum buildup.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

• Quickly shake off excess water and rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all detergent.

• Replace the liner onto the curtain rod and allow it to air dry..

3. Additional Maintenance Tips

• Use the anti mold spray regularly. Use a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water and weekly spray the cushion to deter any new mold growth. 

• Fully Expand Liner: After showering, fully expand the shower curtain liner. Air dry the cushion as fast as you can. 

• Ventilation: Because humidity levels will be high during a shower, turn on the exhaust fan or open a window to remove the humid air and further prevent mold. 

Following the cleaning and maintenance processes explained will always keep your shower curtain liner clean and usable add freshness and comfort to your bathroom!

How to Clean Shower Curtain Rings

Shower curtain rings - whether they be metal or plastic - will inevitably collect soap scum, dust and rust, and may interfere with their glideability and general appearance. However, consistent cleaning will keep the rings looking new.

1. Removing the Shower Curtain Rings

• Gently take off the shower curtain rings and take off and hooks or rings, laying everything flat on a tray or large basin to make cleaning easier.

2. Cleaning Plastic Shower Curtain Rings

Step 1: Soaking

• Mix equal parts white vinegar in warm water and soak your plastic ring for 15 to 20 minutes in order to dissolve the soap scum.

Step 2: Scrub and Scrub

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the surface of the shower curtain ring (you can also use your fingernail to gently scrape it) to thoroughly remove any remaining stains.

Step 3: Rinse and Dry

• Rinse generously with clean water and pat dry with a clean cloth or microfiber cloth.

3. Cleaning Metal Shower Curtain Rings

Step 1: Cleaning the Surface

• Using a damp cloth with a mild solution of dish soap, wipe clean the surface of the rings to remove general stains.

Step 2: Removing Rust Stains

• Combine baking soda and a small amount of water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the rusted areas of your rings and let it sit for 10 minutes.

• Then, gently scrub the area with a soft bristled toothbrush until the rust is gone.

Step 3: Rinse and Dry

• Rinse thoroughly with clean water and wipe dry with a microfiber cloth to restore the metallic shine.

4. Reinstall

• After all rings are completely dry, hang them back on the shower curtain and rod.

• Test pulls several times to ensure smooth movement.

5. Daily Maintenance Tips

• Weekly Quick Wipe: You should wipe the curtain with a damp cloth each week. This will stop dirt from building up.

• Regular Inspection and Replacement: You should check the rings for damage each week. If you find rusty metal rings or cracked plastic ones, you should replace them right away. You will keep the curtain from getting scratched.

How to Keep Shower Curtains Clean

To keep your shower curtain clean between deep cleanings, you can follow these steps:

• Preventive Care: You should care for your curtain regularly to cut down on deep cleaning. You will help it last longer.

• Daily Habits: You should shake off extra water after each shower. You should spread the curtain or liner out so it can dry.

• Ventilation: Turn on your exhaust fan or open a window when showering. This lowers bathroom moisture. You will reduce the chance of mold growth.

• Mold-Resistant Spray: You should apply a mold-resistant spray once a week. This will help keep mildew away.

• Routine Inspections: You should look for mold, tears, or worn spots once a month. You should fix any issues right away.

A Cleaner Bathroom Starts Here

If your shower curtain or liner is severely worn or you're looking for a fresh new look, visit TWOPAGES Curtains online. We offer high-quality, easy-care shower curtains and liners, making bathroom maintenance effortless. Get a refresh for your bathroom!

And, for more tips on cleaning your curtains, check out our expert guide: "Your Expertise Tips: How to Clean Curtains"