I’m just that kind of person who prefers shower curtains over shower glass. I just hate shower glass and like curtains better because it kind of warms up the room, as well as gives it a bit of character. But, come on — shower curtains can get gross. Tubs, showers, tiles, and sinks accumulate soap scum, mildew, and other sorts of mysterious marks I can’t explain. It is like, one day your curtain is clean, and the next, it’s a dirty bit of cloth that appears impossible to clear. Who wants to buy and replace the shower curtain every month or so, right? No way. I’m always searching for ways to clean the thing… I found a solution. Yep, and with zero effort, and I mean straight-up zero.
Well if you’re sick and tired of fighting with your shower curtain to try and get it clean and find a solution for fixing it, you’re in the right place.
Materials Needed
- A washing machine
- Laundry detergent
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- A couple of towels
Step 1: Remove the Shower Curtain
First of all, you have to unhook the shower curtain from the rings. Yes, this part does require some work, but this is the only part where you will have to put in some effort throughout this whole process, I assure you. All you have to do is gently disconnect it and lay it aside.
Step 2: Pre-Treat (Optional)
If there is any part of the shower curtain that has some spots of mildew or is very dirty, you can focus more on that area. Dip a cloth in water with some drops of detergent and sprinkle some baking soda on the stains, then scrub gently. This step is not mandatory but it is good for removing those stubborn stains that do not budge easily.
Step 3: Prepare the Washing Machine
Now it is time to prepare your washing machine. Put your shower curtain and two towels into the washing machine. The towels will function as scrubbers that will help in cleaning the curtain as the machine shakes it. Pour in the usual quantity of detergent that you would normally use for washing clothes.
Step 4: Add Baking Soda
For added cleaning power, add half a cup of baking soda to the machine. Baking soda is well-suited to work against stains and bad odors, since it is alkaline. We use baking soda for cleaning more than we use it for baking. The best cleaning solution ever!
Step 5: Wash with Warm Water
Wash the curtain in a normal or mild cycle with warm water for best result. The hot water also helps to soften the soap scum, a soap residue, and beat the dirt on the curtain. Don’t recommend washing it in cold water.
Step 6: Add Vinegar During Rinse Cycle
While washing add one cup of white vinegar as soon as the washing machine goes to the rinse cycle. White vinegar can be very helpful in the quest to rid your shower and tub of soap scum and eliminate lingering odors. It’s also a great disinfectant, which is a plus in the bathroom. We often use vinegar as a cleaning solution and it never left us disappointed.
Step 7: Hang to Dry
After the wash cycle, hang the shower curtain back up in the shower to dry. The curtain will dry up very fast and will look as if it is new (the drying part will not take forever). You would be surprised at how new and clean it will look with a minimal investment of time.
Extra Tips for Keeping Your Shower Curtain Clean
Now that you’ve got your shower curtain looking spotless, here are a few extra tips to keep it that way with minimal effort:
Regular Rinsing: After each bath, hose down the curtain with warm water to get rid of any soap that might have stuck on it. This will help prevent buildup in the long term.
Proper Ventilation: Ensure your bathroom is well-ventilated. Open a window or use a fan to reduce humidity, which prevents mold and mildew.
Routine Cleans: Clean door on routine schedule (approximately once a month). This will keep the curtain looking new and give it a longer life.
Curtain Liners: You may want to invest in a shower curtain liner. These are typically more manageable and also contribute to the longevity of your decorative curtain against getting stained as often.
Spot Clean: For small messes between washes, make a mixture of vinegar and water. You can use that to spray on the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe it off.
Keep your curtains new for as long as possible and save yourself the time of repeatedly washing them, using these tips. Keep your wallet and your sanity — and save a whole bunch of time. So give it a try, and you can thank me when your shower curtain is crystal clear with very little elbow grease at all.
