Maintaining a clean shower curtain and liner is crucial for ensuring a hygienic bathroom environment.
Shower curtains and liners can often be overlooked, but they can harbor significantly more bacteria than you might expect—up to 60 times more than a toilet seat.
To prevent the accumulation of harmful germs, it’s important to regularly clean both fabric and plastic shower curtains and liners.
Below are expert-recommended tips for cleaning them, whether you use a washing machine or clean them by hand. Additionally, if you have a shower door, we provide tips to keep it grime-free.
How Often Should You Clean a Shower Curtain and Liner?
Ideally, both the shower curtain and liner should be cleaned once a month.
Fabric shower curtains, especially those that don’t frequently come into direct contact with moisture due to a liner, can be washed less often—around every three months.
On the other hand, plastic liners should be washed monthly to prevent bacteria buildup and extend their lifespan.
For homes with shower doors instead of curtains, it’s best to clean the door weekly to remove soap scum and inhibit mold growth.
How to Clean a Shower Curtain and Liner in a Washing Machine
Jeneva Aaron from The Housewire recommends keeping bathroom cleaning simple by washing your shower curtain and liner once a month.
Follow these steps for an easy, effective clean using your washing machine.
Materials Needed:
– Enzyme stain spray (optional)
– Oxygen whitener (optional)
– Soft scrub brush (optional)
– Towels
– Baking soda
– White vinegar
Step 1: Pre-Treat Stains (Optional)
For soap scum or mildew buildup, especially around the bottom of the curtain or liner, consider using an enzyme stain spray, like Grove Collaborative’s Stain Remover Spray.
Apply the spray, soak the area in an oxygen whitener (such as OxiClean), and scrub gently with a soft brush. This will help remove tough grime before laundering.
Step 2: Load the Washing Machine
Place your shower curtain and liner in the washing machine along with a towel and ½ cup of baking soda.
The baking soda helps break down dirt, while the towels assist in scrubbing the curtain clean during the wash cycle.
Avoid washing with other laundry items to prevent wrinkling or damage, especially to plastic liners.
Note: While plastic liners can be washed in the machine, do not place them in the dryer, as heat may cause damage.
Step 3: Add Vinegar in the Rinse Cycle
During the rinse cycle, pour ½ cup of white vinegar into the machine. Vinegar helps remove any remaining residue and ensures a thorough clean.
To keep track of this step, set a reminder for when the washing cycle is nearly complete.
Step 4: Hang to Dry
Once the wash cycle is done, hang the shower curtain and liner on the shower rod to air-dry.
The moisture will drip down into the bathtub, allowing for a mess-free drying process.
How to Clean a Shower Curtain and Liner by Hand
For a more hands-on approach, or depending on the material of your shower curtain, you may prefer hand washing. Follow these steps for an effective hand-cleaning method.
Materials Needed:
– Baking soda
– White vinegar
– Soft scrub brush (optional)
Step 1: Prepare a Cleaning Solution
Mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and baking soda in a large sink or container filled with warm water (about ½ cup of each).
Ensure there’s enough liquid to fully submerge the curtain and liner.
This solution is excellent for dissolving soap residue and buildup.
Step 2: Soak the Curtain and Liner
Place the shower curtain or liner into the mixture and let it soak for about 10 minutes.
If needed, scrub any stubborn areas with a soft brush to remove stains and grime.
Step 3: Air-Dry
Once clean, remove the curtain or liner and hang it over the shower rod to dry completely.
Be sure to air-dry thoroughly if storing for future use.
How to Clean with Vinegar and Baking Soda
Cleaning a shower door is essential to remove soap scum and bacteria that can accumulate over time.
While it’s a straightforward task, it requires some effort to ensure thorough cleaning.
Follow these steps to effectively clean your shower door using simple household ingredients.
Materials Needed:
– White vinegar
– Baking soda
– Microfiber cloths
Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Paste
In a small container, mix one cup of baking soda with a few drops of distilled white vinegar to form a thick paste.
This combination helps break down grime and soap scum naturally.
Step 2: Apply the Paste to the Shower Door
Using a cloth, apply the paste to the shower door, focusing on areas with visible buildup, especially near the bottom.
Let the paste sit for about an hour to allow it to work on stubborn grime.
Step 3: Scrub and Rinse
After the paste has had time to work, use a microfiber cloth to scrub the door, ensuring all areas are covered.
Rinse with water to remove the paste.
Finally, use a clean microfiber cloth to thoroughly dry and buff the door, preventing water stains and mildew from forming.
Tips for Keeping Your Shower Clean Longer
To prevent soap scum, mildew, and bacteria buildup, include your shower door, curtain, or liner in your regular cleaning routine.
Here are a few tips to help maintain cleanliness between deep cleans:
1. Use a Cleaning Spray After Each Shower
Keep a spray bottle with a DIY cleaning solution handy.
A mix of one part vinegar and four parts water works well, and adding a few drops of tea tree oil provides extra antibacterial and antifungal benefits.
Spray the shower door, curtain, or liner after each use to prevent buildup.
2. Run the Exhaust Fan and Leave the Door Open
Turn on the bathroom fan while showering and leave it running for a few minutes afterward to reduce moisture and prevent mold growth.
Leaving the shower door or bathroom door open for about 30 minutes also helps air out the space, further preventing moisture-related issues.
3. Use a Shower Squeegee
A squeegee is a simple, effective tool to remove excess water from your shower door and walls after each shower.
This prevents water stains and soap scum buildup, helping to keep your shower looking clean longer.
FAQs
How many shower curtain liners should I have?
It’s a good idea to have at least two liners to rotate while one is being cleaned, extending the life of both.
Is it better to buy a plastic or fabric liner?
Both options work well, but fabric liners are often preferred for their environmental benefits and ease of cleaning. Look for PVC-free plastic liners if you choose plastic.
How often should I replace my shower curtain or liner?
If visible mold or stains remain after washing, it’s time to replace your liner or curtain. Regular laundering can extend its life, but once stains or mold persist, a replacement is recommended.
