How to Clean a Shower Curtain & Liner

The bathroom is one of the dirtiest places in the house and for good reason. For one thing, they’re prone to moisture, which attracts contaminants and other residue.

Not only that but germs can also be propelled into the air when you flush the toilet.

That’s why it’s so important to clean the bathroom regularly – and that includes the shower curtain and liner.

What’s the best way to clean shower curtains? Can you put them in the washing machine? What kind of laundry detergent should you use? Keep reading for all the answers!

How Often Should You Clean Shower Curtains and Liners?

Ideally, you want to wash your shower curtain and liner once a month – that will prevent unwanted grime from accumulating on the material. Those who use the shower less frequently, however, may be able to clean it once every other month.

For those who use a fabric curtain with a plastic liner, aim to wash the curtain once every two to three months.

Cleaning Fabric Curtains Without Taking Them Down

You can still clean your shower curtains if you don’t have access to a washer or don’t have time to remove it from the rod. You just need three things – white vinegar, water, and a spray bottle.

Using a Vinegar Solution

Start by mixing one part vinegar with four parts water in a spray bottle. The vinegar’s acidic nature will help break down soap scum and mold.

Give the bottle a good shake and apply the solution to the curtains or liner – you want to saturate the material with the liquid. Pay extra attention to the side that hangs in the bathtub as it will likely be the dirtiest.

After spraying, rinse the shower curtain with water from top to bottom using a shower head and allow it to air dry.

Tip: Remember to extend the curtain all the way across the rod before spraying.

Putting Your Fabric Shower Curtains In the Washing Machine

Most shower curtains can be machine-washed. If you’re unsure, read the care tag to check if it can be run through a washer.

Start by taking the shower curtains off the rings. If necessary, you can clean the rings separately by soaking them in a soapy solution.

Place the shower curtain in the washing machine and add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent. We also recommend adding a few large towels to the tub – they will help balance the load and will wipe off any remaining residue or dirt.

Once everything is in the washer, run a delicate or gentle wash cycle on a large load setting with warm water. Avoid using the normal wash setting – the high spin speeds can damage the fabric.

Allow the shower curtain to air dry afterward.

How to Wash Plastic Shower Curtains

Most plastic shower curtains can be put in the washing machine. If anything, the steps are similar to how you would wash fabric curtains.

First things first, take the plastic shower curtain down from the rod. Wash the rings separately, if necessary, by soaking them in hot water and soap.

Carefully place the plastic shower curtains in the washing machine, ensuring they’re evenly distributed in the tub, and add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent. You can also throw in a few bath towels to help balance the load.

Choose a gentle or delicate wash setting and run a cold water cycle. Avoid using heat as high temperatures can cause the plastic to distort or melt.

Once the wash cycle is finished, take out the plastic curtains and allow them to air dry in a well-ventilated room.

How to Wash Shower Curtains By Hand

Shower curtains – both fabric and plastic varieties – can be washed by hand in a large sink or tub.

Prepare a bath for the curtains and fill a large sink or tub with warm to hot water. Add a bit of ACTIVE Detergent and gently mix until you see soap suds. A 1/4 cup of baking soda can also be added for extra cleaning power.

Take the curtains down from the rings and place them in the mixture, ensuring the fabric is completely saturated with the cleaning solution.

Let the curtain sit in the sink or tub for at least 20 minutes before rinsing with water. Continue rinsing the curtains until there are no more soap suds.

Let the shower curtains air dry after cleaning. We recommend hanging them back up on the rod for maximum airflow.

Removing Mold From Your Shower Curtain

There are a few ways to remove mold from your shower curtain or liner. Here are some effective options:

Using Baking Soda

While baking soda might not be the best option for stopping mold growth, it can be used to remove the black stains caused by spores.

To use baking soda, simply mix the powder with a small amount of cool water in a bowl – you should end up with a thick paste.

Using a soft-bristled brush, apply the paste onto the moldy areas and gently scrub. Remember to apply it onto both sides of the fabric or plastic.

Using Borax

Borax is a natural substance that is effective at killing mold. Keep in mind, however, that it can be toxic so it’s best to wear protective equipment such as gloves when handling the powder.

For mold removal, mix one cup of borax with one gallon of cool water in a large tub. Place the mold-affected areas into the tub so it’s completely saturated with the solution and let it soak for at least 45 minutes.

Re-hang the shower curtain onto the rod afterward and allow it to air dry.

How to Wash a Plastic Shower Liner

Shower liners are designed to protect your curtains from moisture and can get dirty over time.

The good news is that most of them are made of machine-washable materials such as polyester, vinyl, or nylon. Having said that, it’s always a good idea to check the care tab label before washing.

As with your shower curtain, you want to start by taking it off the rings.

Carefully place it in the tub and add a bath towel or two to help balance the load. Once the items are in, add one scoop of ACTIVE Detergent and run a gentle cycle with hot water – the heat will help lift any stubborn stains.

Let the cycle run. Once it’s finished, hang the shower liner back on the shower rod and allow it to dry naturally.

Tip: If necessary, you can add half a cup of bleach to the washer for extra sanitizing power.

How to Clean Shower Curtain – FAQs

What is the best way to clean a shower curtain?

Most shower curtains are machine washable so you can run it through a cycle with laundry detergent. Just remember not to put it in the dryer afterward; allow it to air dry instead.

Should shower curtains be washed with cold or warm water?

Fabric shower curtains (e.g. polyester, vinyl curtains) should be washed with a warm water setting; the heat will help remove contaminants.

Plastic curtains, however, should be washed with cold water as high temperatures can cause them to warp.

Can you put shower liners in the washing machine?

Yes, most shower liners are machine washable. To balance the load, we recommend adding a couple of bath towels to the tub.