The Best Way To Clean Your Shower Curtain Liner

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It's no secret that plastic shower curtain liner that protects your bathroom floor from water spray is most likely harboring soap scum and bacteria. Not to mention, all that dirt and grime might be making your shower curtain look cheap when you have guests over. However, with the right approach, you can restore it to like-new condition without needing a replacement. The most effective cleaning method combines targeting obvious stains with a classic machine wash. This handles both visible dirt and invisible bacteria that can live on the surface. Instead of just wiping down your liner, which could leave behind a residue that only encourages future build-up, the liner needs a gentle but thorough cleaning to remove any biofilm that can cause discoloration.

Your washing machine can be highly effective for a task like this when done properly. Baking soda is one of the best cleaning hacks for many things around your home, and mixing a spot cleaning solution of baking soda and water with a machine wash can handle any heavily soiled areas. Adding white vinegar to the rinse cycle will also eliminate any lingering odors and break down mineral deposits that might be clinging to your liner. This cleaning process not only removes existing build-up but can help extend the life of your liner, saving you a little money on purchasing new ones regularly.

You'll begin by removing the liner and shaking off any loose debris over the tub. Then, create your cleaning paste by mixing equal parts baking soda and water. Apply this to any visible mildew spots or soap scum buildup with a soft brush. Let the pasted curtain sit for around 20 to 30 minutes, giving the paste time to work and break down the dirt. For machine washing, place the liner in your washer with two or three towels. These will help provide some gentle scrubbing to the liner without damaging it. Use about half the amount of mild detergent you normally would and add ½ cup of white vinegar to the fabric softener dispenser for an extra disinfecting boost.

Be sure to set your machine to the delicate cycle with warm water. Immediately after washing, rehang the liner so that it will help retain its shape and avoid wrinkles. If you still see some stubborn stains left over, you can spot-treat them with a soft towel and a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water. As far as regular maintenance goes, make sure you're always allowing your shower curtain liner to dry completely by fully extending it after each shower. You can also occasionally spray it with a diluted vinegar solution to help remove any bacteria and mold spores that may be clinging on. Of course, you can always replace it with a new curtain, like this LiBa Bathroom Shower Curtain, or ditch your traditional shower curtain for a hookless alternative for even easier cleaning.