How To Clean A Plastic Shower Curtain And Avoid Buying A New One

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It seems that no matter how squeaky clean you keep your shower, the plastic shower curtain will always become riddled with grime, mold, or hard water stains at some point. Over time, the once crystal-clear or neutral-colored curtain becomes something that you no longer recognize, and you dread seeing it every day. And at some point, it starts giving off a moldy odor, and you're now terrified to bump up against it while showering. It's a familiar scenario for many. Sure, you can spend money replacing it every few months. Or, you can find a way to remove the dirt and grime and keep it cleaner with less effort moving forward. One of the easiest ways to do this is to simply toss it in the washing machine.

The truth is that many people often avoid cleaning their shower curtain by hand, opting to just purchase a new one instead. The reason is that, unlike the process of cleaning a shower door or wall, cleaning a thin curtain is just not easy to do. Trying to keep the curtain steady with one hand while simultaneously scrubbing it down with the other can be quite a tiring task. However, having a clean shower curtain not only gives you better peace of mind, but it means that it's one less location for mildew and bacteria to harbor in your bathroom. But don't let the stains and marks on your dirty shower curtain convince you that it's completely useless after a few months. This simple shower cleaning trick can refresh it in no time, saving you money and a trip to the store.

Tossing your shower curtain in the washer can make your bathroom cleaning a lot easier and quicker. But before cleaning your shower curtain for the first time, always glance at the manufacturer's label to note specific cleaning instructions and things to avoid. If needed, first perform a pre-treatment, as it can help remove tough stains caused by mold or soap scum. Place it in the tub and add one part water and one part bleach to a cleaning bottle. Spray the affected areas, then use something like this Aidea scouring pad to scrub the spots away. 

Next, toss the curtain in the washer on a gentle cycle with warm water. Add a mild laundry detergent and a few towels. The towels will help to clean the curtain and keep the load balanced during the cycles. You can also add 1/2 cup of baking soda if your curtain has an odor. Upon completion, remove the curtain and hang it in the shower to air dry. Never use a hot water wash setting or machine-dry your curtain, as it may cause melting and potential damage to your appliances.

A few daily maintenance rituals can keep your curtain cleaner for longer. First, wash your curtain every week in the washing machine. Also, after showering, be sure to extend the shower curtain so that it can dry fully, minimizing the potential for mold to grow in between the folds. Lastly, make an effort to keep your bathroom well-ventilated. Consider turning on a fan or opening a window after your shower to help dry it out faster.