Although removing a shower curtain from its rings for cleaning can be a bit inconvenient, it’s worth it.
Showers are a breeding ground for germs, and the presence of orange mildew and black mold not only looks unpleasant but can also impact the Air Quality in your home.
Luckily, there are several simple methods to clean a shower curtain, with dealing with the rings being the most challenging part.
To begin, it’s important to establish good habits after each shower.
According to Jessica Ek, the director of digital communications at the American Cleaning Institute, “Investing a little time after every shower can help maintain the appearance of shower curtains and liners for a longer period.
One effective approach is to ensure that after showering, you close the curtain instead of leaving it bunched up on one side. This practice promotes drying and prevents the formation of mold and mildew.
Clean Mold From Shower Curtain
Soaking in Diluted Bleach Solution:
Prepare a solution of diluted bleach by mixing two parts hydrogen peroxide with one part water in a spray bottle.
Spray and Let Sit:
Spray the diluted bleach solution onto the areas affected by mold stains on the shower curtain.
Allow the solution to sit for about five to 10 minutes to effectively kill the mold and mildew.
Rinse the Curtain:
After the designated time, thoroughly rinse the shower curtain to remove the bleach solution and any loosened mold.
Scrub with baking soda Paste:
Create a paste by mixing baking soda with water to form a thick consistency.
Use this baking soda paste to lightly scrub any remaining mold stains on the curtain. Focus on the affected areas and gently scrub with a soft brush or sponge.
Rinse and Air Dry:
Rinse the shower curtain with Clean Water to remove the baking soda paste and any remaining residue.
Afterward, allow the curtain to air dry completely before rehanging it.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean mold from your shower curtain using a diluted bleach solution, baking soda paste, and thorough rinsing.
Handwash Shower Curtain
Remove Curtain Liner:
Take down the shower curtain liner from the rod.
Prepare Warm Water Solution:
Fill your bathtub or a large sink with warm water.
Add 1/4 cup of baking soda and a small amount of laundry detergent. Mix the solution until suds form.
Submerge and Agitate:
Place the shower curtain in the warm water solution and gently agitate it by hand.
Make sure the entire curtain is submerged and allow it to soak for a few minutes. Use your hands to scrub any areas with visible stains or residue.
Rinse Thoroughly:
After agitating and scrubbing, rinse the curtain thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap or cleaning solution residue.
Air Dry:
Once rinsed, hang the shower curtain back up or lay it flat to air dry completely.
Make sure it is fully dry before reattaching it to the rod or using it again.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean your shower curtain by hand using warm water, baking soda, and laundry detergent.
Clean Shower Curtain Rings
Remove the Rings:
Take off the shower curtain rings from the rod so that you can clean them separately.
Wipe with a Damp Cloth:
Use a damp cloth to wipe down each ring.
This should be sufficient for regular cleaning.
Use an All-Purpose Cleaner (if necessary):
If there are stubborn stains or residues on the rings, you can use an all-purpose cleaner specifically formulated for the material of the rod or rings.
Apply the cleaner to the cloth and scrub the rings gently to remove any hard-to-remove residue.
Rinse and Dry:
After wiping or cleaning with the all-purpose cleaner, rinse the shower curtain rings with water to remove any remaining cleaner or dirt.
Make sure to dry them thoroughly before reinstalling them on the rod.
By wiping down the shower curtain rings and rod, you can keep them clean and free from buildup.
Machine-Wash Shower Curtain
For Shower Liners:
Add Towels:
When washing the liner, it’s advisable to include some towels in the machine.
These towels will help absorb water during the wash cycle.
Cold Water Cycle and Air Dry:
Run a cold water cycle in the washing machine.
Afterward, allow the shower liner to air dry instead of using a dryer.
For Fabric Shower Curtains:
Review Manufacturer Instructions:
Read the tag and any provided instructions from the manufacturer to ensure proper cleaning.
Select Gentle Cycle and High Water Level:
Choose the gentlest cycle and the highest water level option available on your washing machine.
Use Mild Detergent and Warm Water:
To avoid damage, opt for mild laundry detergent and warm water when washing fabric shower curtains.
Air Dry:
Similar to shower liners, avoid using a dryer and instead let the fabric shower curtain air dry.
For Plastic Shower Curtains:
Machine-Washable:
Plastic shower curtains can also be cleaned in a washing machine.
Cold Water Cycle and Towels:
Use a cold water cycle and add a few towels to prevent wrinkles during the washing process.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean your shower curtain or liner in a washing machine.
Clean Shower Curtain Without Removing It
If you’re short on time and prefer not to remove your shower curtain, there’s a method for cleaning it suggested by Lauren Bowen, the director of franchise operations at Two Maids & A Mop.
Bowen recommends using a vinegar solution to clean the shower curtain, as vinegar is effective in breaking down accumulated mold and soap scum.
Here’s how you can proceed:
Prepare the Cleaning Solution:
Take a spray bottle and mix one part vinegar with four parts water.
Make sure the shower curtain is fully extended across the rod.
Apply the Solution:.
Spray the vinegar solution onto the curtain, focusing on the side that hangs inside the tub.
Ensure that the curtain is thoroughly saturated with the solution.
Rinse and Allow to Dry:
Rinse the shower curtain with warm water, starting from the top and working your way down.
After rinsing, let the curtain air dry.
By following these steps, you can clean your shower curtain without the need to remove it.
*The information is for reference only.