Having a clean shower curtain is very important as it helps to avoid the buildup of bacteria in the bathroom.

They are supposed to be washed at one time or the other, but for the fact that they are exposed to soap, mold, and mildew, they may not get washed as often as they should.

The Importance of Cleaning Your Shower Curtain

Not cleaning your shower curtain can lead to the growth of bacteria and a bad odor. Here are the reasons why you should clean your shower curtain regularly:

Helps to Prevent Mold and Mildew – A closed environment is more likely to support the growth of fungi, which can cause symptoms such as asthma and other respiratory problems.

Removes Soap Scum – Body wash and shampoo can also leave behind some sticky residues that can be quite stubborn to remove.

Increases the Shelf Life – Regular cleaning helps to avoid wear and tear, and you will not have to replace the curtain as often.

Improve the Appearance of the Bathroom – A cleaned curtain will enhance the appearance of your bathroom.

Different Kinds of Shower Curtains and How to Clean Them

Not all fabrics need the same cleaning methods. This is important to take care of the fabric.

Plastic and Vinyl

It can be machine-washed or hand-washed.
Not prone to mildew but is likely to accumulate soap scum.
Dries quickly, which lowers the chances of mildew formation.

Fabric (Petroleum, Cotton, and Linen)

It can be washed in a machine but in a gentle cycle.
Stains easily but looks better than the other two.
Some types may need ironing to maintain their shape.

PEVA and EVA (Green Options)

It is non-toxic and safer than traditional vinyl.
More resistant to mold growth than other materials.
The recommended method of washing is by hand using mild soap.

Steps on How to Wash a Shower Curtain

Method of Washing in Machine

Most shower curtains can be laundered in a washing machine. Follow these steps for an easy cleaning routine:

Take Down the Curtain – Take it down from the hoops and check for discoloration or dirt.

Putting It in the Washer – Fit the curtain into the washer with some towels to prevent creases and increase friction.

Gentle Detergent – Mix a mild laundry detergent and half a cup of baking soda to help loosen the dirt.

Choose the Right Cycle – A gentle cycle should be used with warm water to prevent damage to the curtain.

Vinegar – A cup of white vinegar should be added to the rinse water to help break the soap scum and kill bacteria.

Rinse Well if Needed – If there is still soapy residue on the curtain, you can try washing it again.

Hang to Dry Correctly – After taking it down from the clothesline, shake the curtain to remove wrinkles and prevent a musty odor.

The Hand-Washing Method

When you have a delicately made fabric or when you want to do a quick stain removal, then hand washing is recommended:

Fill a Tub or Large Sink – Warm water and mild detergent should be used to soak the curtain in a tub or a large sink.

Wipe or Brush – Use a sponge or a brush to clean; when cleaning specific parts, do it gently to avoid spreading dirt to other parts.

Baking Soda for More Cleaning – Apply it on the areas with stains and then use the baking soda lightly on the affected areas.

Rinse Well – Make sure all the soap is washed away by rinsing the curtain several times.

Dry Thoroughly – Depending on the area, hang the curtain outside to dry to avoid the growth of mildew and the development of odor.

Deep Cleaning for Heavy Stains

If your curtain has mold or heavy staining, a deeper clean may be required:

Soak in Baking Soda Solution – Place the curtain in warm water with one cup of baking soda and leave it for one hour.

Scrub with a Soft Brush – Use gentle circular motions only on the affected areas.

Use Hydrogen Peroxide or Vinegar – Put some on the moldy areas, and it will work as an antibiotic and leave it to act for 10-15 minutes.

Rinse and Dry Properly – Make sure that the curtain is completely dried before putting it back into use to prevent the growth of mold.

Apply a Fabric Protector (Optional) – Applying a protective solution can help prevent future buildup and increase the time between cleans.

What Not to Do When Cleaning a Shower Curtain

To prevent some common mistakes that can damage the curtain and make it unusable:

Missing the Regular Cleaning Regime – This is to prevent the buildup of substances that can be easily removed during cleaning, stains, and soap scum.

Using Harsh Chemicals – Some cleaning products like bleach may cause fading or damage to the fabric and break the plastic components.

High Heat Drying – Hot water or dryers can cause the vinyl to warp, shrink the fabric curtains, and make them rigid.

Scrubbing Too Hard – Using harsh brushes or scrubbing can cause delicate materials to get torn and the waterproof finish to wear off.

Leaving It Damp – Not completely drying the item leads to the formation of mildew, which gives off an unpleasant odor and may be bad for one’s health.

Ignoring the Curtain Liner – Unfortunately, many people fail to clean or replace their liners, which can be a hotbed of bacteria and mold.

Washing Too Infrequently – Because of this, dirt and soap scum are able to build up, and as time goes by, it becomes harder to clean the curtain.

Not Checking Manufacturer Instructions – It is always important to check the care label to know how to wash and dry the item according to its material.

Conclusion

A bathroom with a new shower curtain looks and feels better and is healthier to use.

It is crucial to take time to prevent the buildup of mold, remove soap scum, and make it last longer.

You should put in the effort to properly clean your curtain to really make a difference in your bathroom.

If you are searching for a house cleaning service, NW Maids is your go-to for professional help in keeping your house clean.

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